Hi everyone,

I’m an NRI and currently a European resident. I have received a good remote-work offer that allows me to work from India, so I’m considering moving back with my family, including my 2-year-old daughter.

I’m trying to shortlist Indian cities based on the following priorities:

1. Clean air, preferably AQI below 60 most of the time
2. Safe and peaceful environment for a young child
3. Civilized, respectful, and helpful people around
4. No major language barrier; English is fine
5. Strong and reliable internet for remote tech work
6. Good hospitals and clinics nearby
7. Good schools with practical/holistic learning, ideally something like gurukul, Montessori, Waldorf, or experiential learning
8. Good access to shops, supermarkets, and daily services
9. Nearby nature
10. A calm European-town feeling rather than a crowded metro lifestyle

According to my astrocartography, the South India belt looks more favorable for long-term settlement, but I’m also quite attracted to some Northeast/hill cities because of the clean air, peaceful culture, and nature.

Cities I’m currently considering:

1. Mysuru
2. Chandigarh
3. Gangtok
4. Coonoor
5. Coimbatore
6. Thiruvananthapuram
7. Pondicherry / Auroville

I’m originally from Maharashtra, but I feel Pune and Nashik have become crowded and may also have worse AQI compared to the cities listed above.

I would really appreciate honest ground-level feedback, especially from people who live in these cities or have recently moved there.

Which city would you recommend for a peaceful, safe, family-friendly life with good services? Also, which neighborhoods should I explore or avoid?

Thanks in advance!