Discover the top 15 retirement destinations in India, curated for their unique appeal and suitability for senior living. Know the key factors and gain deep insights to start your retirement journey with confidence and excitement.
Brimming with possibilities, retirement is a well-deserved chapter of your life. However, there are so many factors to ponder on, to choose the ideal place and settle down. Finding the perfect fit is paramount.
Whether you desire cool mountain breezes or the warmth of sun-drenched beaches, prioritise affordability or seek access to top-notch healthcare, this exploration of 15 diverse Indian cities has you covered. In this blog, let us probe important factors such as climate, cost of living, social environment, and healthcare – so that seniors in India can enjoy a fulfilling retirement.
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Top 15 Cities for Retirement in India
Picture yourself in a place that caters to your every desire for an enriching retirement. Whether you seek peace in the embrace of nature or cultural vibrancy to keep your spirit young, get ready to discover the perfect destination to unwind and embrace the next chapter of your life! This section unveils 15 best places to retire in India, meticulously chosen for their unique charm and suitability for senior living.
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Pune
Perched amidst the Sahyadri hills, Pune offers an enticing blend of historical allure, modern amenities, and an invigorating climate – a perfect recipe for retirement. The city has well-developed infrastructure, ensuring convenient access to top-notch healthcare facilities like Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Jehangir Hospital, vibrant shopping centres such as Phoenix Marketcity and Amanora Mall, and serene recreational spots like Empress Garden and Osho Garden.
Steeped in rich Marathi heritage, the city has iconic landmarks such as Shaniwarwada and Aga Khan Palace, along with lively festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Pune International Film Festival. Whether you desire a tranquil life amidst scenic beauty or an active retirement lifestyle in India matching the pulse of Pune, this multifaceted city caters to your desires, making it a haven for a relaxed retirement.
Must Vist: Apartments for Sale in Pune
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Chandigarh
Chandigarh stands out as an epitome of retirement bliss, designed to cater to the needs of discerning retirees. With its well-planned layout, the city offers clean air, efficient infrastructure, and secure environment, ensuring peace of mind for retirees. Moreover, it strikes the perfect balance between modern amenities and historical charm, with iconic landmarks like the Capitol Complex and Sukhna Lake.
Retirees in Chandigarh benefit from world-class healthcare facilities, including the renowned Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), while recreational spots like Leisure Valley and Elante Mall provide multiple opportunities for leisure and entertainment. Thus, the city’s appeal lies in its ability to offer retirees a fulfilling lifestyle surrounded by tranquillity, beauty, and convenience.
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Bangalore
For retirees seeking a culturally vibrant environment, Bangalore beckons! This cosmopolitan city pulsates with youthful energy, offering a plethora of opportunities to keep your mind and body active. Renowned museums & art galleries such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, Aerospace Museum, and Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat provide cultural enrichment.
Foodies will delight in exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene, from traditional South Indian fare to international flavours. Bangalore has some of the finest healthcare facilities in the country, with multi-speciality hospitals like Narayana Health and Manipal Hospitals ensuring access to top-notch medical care. While the city buzzes with activity, well-planned residential areas offer peaceful havens to unwind.
Must Vist: Apartments for Sale in Bangalore
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Mumbai
The bustling metropolis of dreams holds undeniable allure for retirees seeking a rich tapestry of experiences and world-class amenities. With access to top-notch healthcare facilities such as Bombay Hospital and Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, retirees can receive top quality medical care whenever needed. However, it is important to note that Mumbai’s cosmopolitan charm comes with a higher cost of living compared to other cities on this list.
Despite this, Mumbai’s vibrant cultural scene, iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, museums like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya and bustling markets offer retirees an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the dynamic rhythm of the city. For those craving an urban adventure filled with excitement, diversity, and endless possibilities, Mumbai stands as an ideal destination to embrace retirement in India.
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Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar emerges as one of the best Indian cities for retirees who seek a harmonious blend of rich history, affordability, and serenity. Nicknamed ‘Temple City’, it has a fascinating past evident in magnificent temples like the Lingaraja Temple and Mukteshwar Temple. Situated amidst lush greenery and ancient temples, Bhubaneswar offers retirees a peaceful atmosphere to savour their golden years.
When it comes to affordable living, this is one of the best retirement cities in India where seniors can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without compromising on quality. Bhubaneswar also has well-equipped hospitals like SUM Hospital and Apollo Hospitals, ensuring access to quality healthcare. In Bhubaneswar, retirees from multiple communities in India can truly find solace and contentment, as they embark on this new chapter of life.
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Ahmedabad
The heart of vibrant Gujarati culture, Ahmedabad emerges as an enticing destination for retirees seeking a blend of cultural richness, healthcare accessibility, and affordability. With its robust healthcare infrastructure – including esteemed institutions like Apollo Hospitals and Sterling Hospitals – retirees can benefit from excellent medical care. Additionally, the moderate cost of living allows retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
While the summer months can be on the hotter side, pleasant winters and overall dry climate might be a welcome change for some. In Ahmedabad, retirees can immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Gujarati culture and embrace the next chapter of their lives with spirit and vitality.
Must Visit: Apartments for Sale in GIFT City, Gujarat
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Hyderabad
With its blend of history, modernity, and agreeable weather, Hyderabad proves to be an enticing option for retirees, despite the challenge posed by hot summers. Renowned for rich cultural heritage and dynamic development, the city offers retirees a glimpse into India’s storied past while embracing the innovations of the present.
Hyderabad strikes the perfect balance between affordability and access to amenities, ensuring a comfortable lifestyle without compromising on quality. Retirees in Hyderabad can explore iconic landmarks like the Charminar and Golconda Fort. They can also indulge in the city’s delectable cuisine. Vibrant markets offer them a chance to immerse themselves in timeless elegance and contemporary vibrancy.
Must Visit: Flats for Sale in Hyderabad
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Kochi
A tranquil haven with natural beauty and culinary delights, Kochi beckons retirees with its serene coastal charm. With its stunning backwaters and abundance of fresh seafood, the city offers residents an opportunity to savour the essence of coastal living amidst a laid-back atmosphere. Further, Kochi’s charm lies in its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality – providing seniors with an enriching and rejuvenating retirement experience.
From the colonial charm of Fort Kochi to the famed Santa Cruz Basilica, you can explore the city’s rich heritage. If you prioritise breathtaking scenery, fresh seafood on your plate, and tranquil environment, Kochi might be your ideal retirement paradise. In Kerala’s financial capital, retirees can embrace the serene beauty of coastal life while immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of Kerala’s heritage and traditions.
Must Visit: Apartments for Sale in Kochi
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Chennai
With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant sense of community, Chennai emerges as an enticing choice for retirees seeking a blend of tradition and relaxation. The Gateway to South India attracts many, due to its deep-rooted traditions, bustling markets, and lively festivals. Retirees can immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Tamil culture. The city also has a well-developed infrastructure, ensuring easy access to all daily needs.
While the tropical climate can be hot and humid during summers, proximity to the coast provides a welcome respite. Top-notch medical care is a given in the health capital of India, which hosts reputed healthcare facilities like Apollo Hospitals and MIOT hospitals. With its welcoming atmosphere, Chennai provides retirees with an opportunity to forge meaningful connections in a city brimming with warmth and charm.
Must Visit: Properties for Sale in Chennai
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Delhi
With its rich cultural tapestry, vibrant historical landmarks, and excellent medical facilities, Delhi stands as an attractive choice for retirees. However, it is important to note that the city’s bustling streets, pollution levels, and excessive cost of living may pose challenges for some.
Despite this, the allure of India’s capital lies in its unparalleled diversity – offering retirees a chance to immerse themselves in its rich history, explore iconic landmarks like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar, and indulge in its culinary delights.
With access to world-class medical facilities and a plethora of cultural experiences, Delhi provides retirees with an opportunity to embrace the vibrancy of urban life while enjoying the comforts of retirement in a city steeped in history and tradition.
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Goa
If you are yearning for a laid-back lifestyle kissed by the sun, Goa invites. Imagine waking up to the gentle rhythm of the waves, the golden sands stretching endlessly before you. Indulge in water sports, explore charming fishing villages, or simply relax on a beach lounger with a good book.
The strong presence of international and domestic tourism creates a cosmopolitan atmosphere, with a diverse range of restaurants and cafes that treat your taste buds. While exploring quaint villages and indulging in delicious seafood cuisine, seniors in Goa can embrace a slower pace of life and enjoy the simple pleasures of retirement in a picturesque setting. So, retire in Goa, India to get the opportunity to bask in the warmth of the sun and the joy of coastal living.
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Pondicherry
Imagine strolling through bougainvillea-lined avenues and living in pastel-coloured colonial mansions whispering tales of a bygone era. This is Pondicherry, a city where French flair blends seamlessly with Indian warmth, beckoning retirees seeking a unique and peaceful haven.
Explore the French Quarter, with its charming cafes and iconic landmarks like the Romain Rolland Library. Relax on pristine beaches or delve into the city’s rich spiritual heritage at Auroville, an experimental township promoting peace and unity. Pondicherry offers a tranquil escape, perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Reputable healthcare facilities like JIPMER (Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research) ensure access to quality medical care. If you prioritise a charming, walkable city steeped in history and blessed with beautiful beaches, Pondicherry might be your ideal retirement paradise.
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Jaipur
Famously known as the Pink City, Jaipur is the quintessential example of a place steeped in history, culture, and architectural grandeur. This makes it one of the top Indian cities for retirees seeking a rich and vibrant retirement destination. This vibrant capital of Rajasthan beckons seniors seeking a rich tapestry of history, culture, and affordability.
From exploring the majestic Amber Fort to indulging in traditional Rajasthani cuisine and vibrant bazaars, retirees can experience the timeless charm and hospitality of the Pink City. If you are looking for a city with visual grandeur, rich history, warm community, and affordable retirement solutions in India, Jaipur might be your ideal retirement haven.
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Mysore
Nestled in the heart of South Karnataka, Mysore stands as a timeless testament to serenity and charm, making it the quintessential haven for retirees seeking tranquillity and cultural richness. Fondly dubbed the ‘City of Palaces’, Mysore hosts a tapestry of architectural marvels, each echoing tales of its regal past. Its picturesque landscapes and temperate climate create an idyllic backdrop for leisurely strolls and serene introspection.
While it may not have the glitz of metropolitan cities, Mysore’s allure lies in its unhurried pace and close-knit community, fostering a sense of belonging that is unparalleled. For those prioritising heritage, warmth, and leisurely lifestyle, Mysore emerges as the perfect symphony of tradition and tranquillity.
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Kolkata
Steeped in history and buzzing with life, the City of Joy is a compelling retirement destination. Imagine strolling past colonial-era mansions, indulging in Bengali sweets, and attending vibrant Durga Puja celebrations. Active retirees will find themselves immersed in Kolkata’s rich cultural scene, from art galleries to intellectual discourse.
Kolkata’s unique charm and affordability make it a truly special place to unwind and rediscover life’s simple pleasures. The city also has a remarkably low cost of retirement in India, excellent healthcare facilities in renowned hospitals, and a warm, welcoming community spirit.
16 Resources to Plan Your Retirement in India
Numerous resources can help you plan your retirement. Here are a few suggestions:
Government of India Schemes
- Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund (SCWF): Established by the Government of India, this fund aims to promote the welfare of senior citizens by providing financial assistance for various initiatives such as healthcare, community programs, and social activities.
- Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007: This legislation mandates adult children to provide maintenance to their elderly parents, and ensures their welfare & protection. It also establishes tribunals to address disputes related to maintenance.
- Vayomithram Scheme (Kerala): Launched by the Government of Kerala, this scheme provides financial assistance to senior citizens living below the poverty line for meeting their healthcare needs and other essential expenses.
- Annapurna Scheme (Odisha): Under this scheme, the Government of Odisha provides free foodgrains to destitute senior citizens who are not covered under any pension scheme.
- Mukhya Mantri Vridhajan Pension Yojana (Madhya Pradesh): This scheme provides monthly pension to senior citizens above the age of 60 years belonging to below-poverty-line families.
- Day Care Centres for Senior Citizens (Maharashtra): The Government of Maharashtra operates daycare centers for senior citizens – offering them a range of services like healthcare, recreation, and social interaction.
Financial Planning Websites
- Moneycontrol: They offer a comprehensive platform for financial planning – including retirement planning tools, investment calculators, and expert advice on various investment options.
- ET Money: ET Money provides personalised financial planning solutions – including retirement planning tools, goal-based investing, and access to mutual funds and other investment products.
- Policy Bazaar: Information and comparison tools for retirement plans, pension schemes, and other financial products help users compare different options and choose the most suitable retirement plan based on their needs & preferences.
- Investopedia: Though not specific to India, Investopedia offers a wealth of educational resources on retirement planning, investment strategies, and fiscal management. It provides articles, tutorials, and videos covering various aspects of personal finance.
- Value Research Online: They offer in-depth analysis and research on mutual funds, retirement plans, and other investment products – apart from tools for portfolio tracking, goal-based investing, and retirement planning.
- Cleartax: They offer retirement planning tools and calculators to help users estimate their retirement corpus, plan investments, and achieve their financial goals. Cleartax also provides information on tax-saving investment options and strategies.
- Moneylife: Moneylife offers articles, blogs, and newsletters on personal finance, retirement planning, and investment strategies. It also provides insights from financial experts and industry professionals to help users take informed decisions about their finances.
Senior Citizen Communities
- Athashri by Paranjape Schemes: Athashri communities in Pune, Bangalore, and Vadodara offer independent living and assisted living options for seniors – with amenities such as healthcare services, dining facilities, and recreational spaces.
- Serene Urbana, Chennai: Serene Urbana offers senior living apartments with assisted living services, healthcare facilities, recreational activities, and 24/7 security.
- Aditya Shagun in Pune: Independent living for seniors, apart from assisted living option, and facilities like healthcare facilities, recreational activities, and 24/7 security.
Conclusion
The journey to finding the perfect retirement destination is deeply personal and subjective. In our exploration of the best 15 places to retire in India, we have meticulously outlined the diverse charms and amenities offered by each city. It is important for homebuyers to introspect and align their preferences with the unique attributes of each location. Whether you prioritise a serene coastal retreat, bustling cultural hub, or tranquil hillside haven, India offers a myriad of options to suit every retirement dream.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to retire comfortably in India?
The cost to retire comfortably in India depends on the desired lifestyle, favourite city, and choice of housing. Smaller cities and towns offer lower cost of retirement, compared to metros such as Mumbai or Delhi.
2. What type of healthcare facilities are available in these cities?
Excellent healthcare infrastructure is available in all key cities of India, with a mix of government hospitals, private hospitals, and specialty clinics.
3. I am interested in a specific city, but it was not on this list. Should I rule it out?
If you are interested in a specific city, but it was not on the list of 15 best cities in India to live after retirement, you need not rule it out. You can conduct further research on the city of your interest, talk to retirees staying there, contact developers with ‘senior living’ housing options in that city, and then take final decision.
4. What are some resources to help me plan my retirement in India?
Some resources that can help you plan retirement in India are Government of India schemes such as Senior Citizens' Welfare Fund (SCWF), Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007; financial planning websites such as moneycontrol, ET Money, Policy Bazaar; and senior citizen communities like Athashri by Paranjape Schemes, Serene Urbana Chennai, Aditya Shagun Pune.
