Thrissur, India

Capital City

With a population of 315,596, Thrissur is the third largest urban center in Kerala, but don't expect an easy life. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the climate can be brutally hot and humid for much of the year. However, the city does offer a thriving cultural scene, from festivals like the famous Thrissur Pooram to a rich literary tradition. If you can tolerate the bureaucratic hassles and tropical heat, Thrissur may be the right fit for those drawn to its unique blend of history, spirituality, and commerce.