Baramulla, India

Baramulla sits along the Jhelum River in the Kashmir Valley, surrounded by the Pir Panjal Range. It’s a business and education hub, but don’t expect the polish of Srinagar, its larger neighbor downstream. The cost of living is dirt cheap—$37 a month for a city-center apartment—but infrastructure can be patchy, and winters are harsh.

Living in Baramulla means navigating a slower pace and limited amenities. The city feels more provincial than cosmopolitan, with fewer expat conveniences. If you’re looking for a low-cost base in Kashmir and don’t mind roughing it, Baramulla works. But it’s not for those who need modern comforts or a thriving expat scene.