Top Indian Spots for Digital Nomads

India's incredible diversity, varied landscapes, and colorful history make it a fascinating tourist destination. But not only intrepid globetrotters seeking cultural and spiritual experiences visit this South Asian nation. The country is slowly but steadily becoming a favorite among digital nomads.

Why Choose India as a Digital Nomad Destination?

• Low Cost of Living: India offers an affordable lifestyle compared to many Western countries, making it attractive to digital nomads.
• Co-living Spaces: India provides fully furnished, cost-effective co-living spaces designed for remote workers.
• Tech-Ready: India is well-adapted to new technology, offering reliable Wi-Fi, IT support, and a conducive environment for remote work.

Pros and Cons of Working Remotely in India

Pros:

• Affordability
• Rich cultural experiences
• Extensive accommodation options
• Enriching encounters
• Diverse and flavorful cuisine

Cons:

• Power cuts and blackouts in some areas
• Poor and unreliable internet connectivity in rural locations
• Overcrowding in many places

Top 12 Places in India for Digital Nomads

1. Bengaluru (Bangalore)

Bengaluru offers modern infrastructure, reliable internet, and a variety of co-working spaces.

Highlights:

• Silicon Valley of India
• Modern infrastructure
• Fast and reliable internet
• Tech hub in Whitefield
• Cultural attractions: Bangalore Palace, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Cubbon Park, Bull Temple, National Gallery of Modern Art, Ulsoor Lake

Coworking Spaces: Bunchworks, CoWrks New Indiranagar, ClayWorks Mini Forest, GoodWorks

2. Hyderabad

Hyderabad offers affordable living costs, with excellent internet connectivity. Must-see attractions include Charminar, Golkonda Fort, and the Grand Tombs.

Highlights:

• IT hub with major tech companies
• 1 Gbps internet speed
• Affordable cost of living
• Cultural attractions: Charminar, Golkonda Fort, Grand Tombs

Coworking Spaces: Regus, Innov8, CoWrks Skyview, Nano Space

3. Mumbai

Mumbai is India's financial capital with a booming start-up ecosystem. While slightly more expensive, it offers a lively social scene, world-class restaurants, and trendy bars.

Highlights:

• Financial capital of India
• Vibrant nightlife
• Fast-growing startup ecosystem
• Cultural attractions: Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Elephanta Caves, Victorian and Art Deco buildings

Coworking Spaces: Workafella, Divinehub, The Boardroom, WorkCampus

4. Delhi

Delhi combines modern amenities with historical charm. It's cheaper than Mumbai and offers diverse attractions, from posh shopping centers to ancient forts.

Highlights:

• Blend of old and new
• Rich historical landmarks
• Cultural attractions: Qutub Minar, India Gate, Red Fort, Lotus Temple, Humayun's Tomb

Coworking Spaces: Avanta Business Centre, Hustle Cowork, Daftar Cowork, Awfis Connaught Place

5. Goa

Goa offers beautiful beaches, great weather, and a party atmosphere. North Goa is perfect for a blend of work and nightlife, while South Goa offers tranquility.

Highlights:

• Beautiful beaches
• Party capital of India
• Watersports in North Goa
• Tranquil beaches in South Goa

Coworking Spaces: The Cove Goa, 91Springboard, NomadGao, Clay

6. Pune

Pune offers a rich cultural experience and a growing tech scene. Affordable living costs, reliable internet, and efficient transportation.

Highlights:

• Cultural and historical city
• Affordable cost of living
• Good internet connectivity
• Tech and educational hub

Coworking Spaces: Friyey Space, Cowerkz, Anchor Coworking, Inscape

7. Nagpur

Nagpur is known as the cleanest and greenest city in India. Affordable living costs, decent internet connectivity, and efficient transportation.

Highlights:

• Clean and green city
• Affordable cost of living
• Growing tech hub
• Limited coworking spaces

Coworking Spaces: Working Avenue, Eureka Coworking, Cube Space, Bootstart CoWork

8. Hubli

Hubli offers a quieter, modern landscape at an affordable cost. Limited coworking spaces but trendy cafes with good internet connectivity.

Highlights:

• Tranquil city
• Affordable cost of living
• Limited coworking options
• Attractive natural beauty

Coworking Spaces: The Coworking Spaces

9. Mysore

Mysore is a cultural capital with heritage landmarks like Mysore Palace. Organized, green, and safe; lower cost of living.

Highlights:

• Cultural capital of Karnataka
• Organized and green city
• Affordable cost of living
• Good internet connectivity

Coworking Spaces: SproutBox Mysore, K-tech Innovation Hub, Wekreatespace, Myofficespace

10. Agra

Agra, famous for the Taj Mahal, offers unique historical attractions. Affordable living costs, moderately fast internet, and rich history.

Highlights:

• Iconic Taj Mahal
• Rich historical landmarks
• Affordable cost of living
• Moderate internet connectivity

Coworking Spaces: Space n Mugs

11. Jaipur

Jaipur offers vibrant architecture, rich history, and a lower cost of living. Moderately fast internet, with various coworking spaces.

Highlights:

• Pink City with elaborate forts
• Low cost of living
• Decent internet connectivity

Coworking Spaces: WaveX Cowork, Cowork'in Jaipur, Collabo Corner, MrCowork

12. Varanasi

Varanasi offers a unique spiritual and cultural experience. Affordable living costs and a chance to explore India's rich spirituality.

Highlights:

• Spiritual capital of India
• Rich cultural experiences
• Affordable cost of living
• Limited coworking spaces

Coworking Spaces: Work-friendly coffee shops (e.g., The Place Ngo Outlet Cafe, Café Café Varanasi, Namo Café, Flavours Café)

India offers a diverse range of destinations for digital nomads, each with its unique charm and advantages. Whether you seek tech hubs, cultural experiences, or natural beauty, India has something to offer for remote work and exploration.

Digital Nomad Accommodation in India

Accommodation in India is generally accessible and affordable, making it ideal for digital nomads.

1. Coliving.com

Coliving in India is a favorite choice among digital nomads. It offers various stay options, from weekly to yearly plans, featuring fully furnished, inspiring living spaces designed for interaction and shared experiences. For instance, you can find places like the Spacious Rural House with Pool and Sports facilities in Bangalore.

2. Anyplace

Anyplace is designed to cater to the needs of digital nomads and remote workers. It helps you find suitable digital nomad housing based on your destination city in India. When you book through Anyplace, essentials like utilities, WiFi, and housekeeping are typically included, ensuring a hassle-free stay.

3. Airbnb

Airbnb is a popular platform for finding digital nomad accommodation in India. Many homeowners offer short-term and long-term rentals at affordable rates. It provides a diverse range of options to suit your preferences and budget.

Why Become a Digital Nomad in India?

India's allure for digital nomads lies in its vastness and diversity, offering something for everyone:

• Abundance of Experiences: From mountain adventures to digital nomad retreats, India caters to various personalities.
• Affordability: The cost of living in India is significantly lower than in many other countries, allowing for a comfortable digital nomad lifestyle.
• Tech and Connectivity: India is globally recognized for its technology expertise, ensuring easy access to high-quality internet and data packages.
• Efficient Transportation: A well-established transportation network simplifies travel within the country, perfect for nomads always on the move.

Cost of Living in India

India's cost of living is generally low, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. While expenses may vary depending on the city, Numbeo estimates that a single person's monthly costs, excluding rent, average around $325. 

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately $158, with slightly lower rates outside the city center. Specific costs may vary by city, so it's advisable to research the cost of living in your chosen location.

Weather in India

India's climate ranges from extreme heat to humid conditions, varying by region. The southern parts, like Chennai and Kerala, experience hotter and more humid weather, while northern regions have milder temperatures. India has four seasons:

• Winter (December to February): Temperatures range from 10 to 25°C.
• Pre-Monsoon (March to May): Temperatures can soar from 32 to 40°C.
• Monsoon (June to September): Rainy season.
• Post Monsoon (October to November): Dry and cool.

Weather conditions can vary significantly based on your chosen destination, so plan your travels accordingly.

Nomad Visas in India

India offers various types of visas, making it relatively easy for most nationalities to obtain long-term visas. The Multiple Entry Tourist Visa is a versatile choice for digital nomads,lasting between 5 to 10 years, with continuous stay periods of 90 to 180 days, depending on your nationality. While working on a tourist visa is generally not allowed, many digital nomads choose to work remotely without mentioning it to authorities.

It's important to register with the Foreign Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if planning to stay in India for more than 100 days, which can also be done online.

In conclusion, India's diverse experiences, affordability, tech infrastructure, and ease of entry make it an excellent choice for digital nomads. Whether you seek adventure, culture, or tranquility, India offers it all as you embrace the nomadic lifestyle.