India , a land of incredible variety and finish , is domicile to some of the most populous cities in the world . Each of thelargest cities in Indiafeatures its own portmanteau of history , tradition and modernity , showcasing the nation ’s rich inheritance and rapid development . From bustling metropolises to historic centers , India ’s urban landscapes chew over its vibrant spirit .
The huge majority ofstates within Indiafeature cities of over 1 million resident physician , so population boom is not a low density . Whether you ’re exploring ancient landmark , indulge in local culinary art or witnessing technical advancements , India ’s largest cities offer an unforgettable experience .
We used prescribed Indian regime data from all respective municipal corporations to grade universe number . Where firsthand information for Indian cities was unavailable , we went by the UN World Urbanisation Prospects estimates , whichwere last updated in 2018 . It ’s also worth noting that the lastfull - scale censusof the Amerind population ask place in 2011 , so actual numbers are likely to be larger than what is represented .
1. New Delhi (16.80 million)
India ’s capital city and the heart of the Delhi uniting dominion , New Delhiis a sprawl portmanteau word of ancient history and modern development . From historical landmark like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar to bustle about mart like Chandni Chowk , Delhi is a ethnical gem trove . Its vibrant arts picture and political import make it one of India ’s most important city .
Both New Delhi and Mumbai have the distinction of population outdo 10 million people , reach them the championship of " megacities " among the world ’s largest metropolitan projects . The neighboring babe city of Old Delhi is also home to some 11 million the great unwashed , impart a entire universe of nearly 30 million in the combined metropolis .
2. Mumbai (12.44 million)
sleep with as the City of Dreams , Mumbaiis India ’s financial majuscule and the heart of the Bollywood film industry . Mumbai ’s iconic Marine Drive , Gateway of India and vibrant street food for thought picture attract meg of visitor . Mumbai ’s fast - pace free energy of over 12 million residents and cultural diversity make India ’s second - most populated city aglobal metropolisand one of the boastful city in the world .
3. Bengaluru (8.44 million)
Bengaluru , often called the Silicon Valley of India , is a hub for technology and innovation . The city ’s pleasant weather , lush gardens and thrive inauguration civilisation appeal pro from across the country . Its vibrant night life and growing art scene impart to its cosmopolitan charm . Bengaluru ’s burgeon industry and population manna from heaven also make it a probable home for real estate investment .
4. Hyderabad (7.68 million)
Hyderabad , known as the City of Pearls , blends historic charm with a roaring tech industriousness . The metropolis ’s iconic Charminar and Golconda Fort reflect its deep heritage , whileHITEC Cityunderscores its modernness . Its world - illustrious biriani and ethnical fete are not to be missed among other cities in the ranking .
5. Ahmedabad (6.36 million)
Ahmedabad , Gujarat , is historically one of the richest cities in India , extend into the modern day . experience for its textile industry and palaces like the Sabarmati Ashram , it has also gained realization as India ’s first UNESCOWorld Heritage City . The vivacious annual kite festival and street food refinement are highlight .
6. Chennai (4.65 million)
The coastal capital of Tamil Nadu , Chennaiis a ethnical and economic hub in South India . make out for its classical medicine , Bharatanatyam dance and historic temples , the city also boasts a growing IT sphere . Marina Beach and the ancient Kapaleeshwarar Temple are major draw .
7. Kolkata (4.49 million)
Kolkata , the City of Joy , is the largest city in West Bengal . have intercourse for its cerebral heritage and esthetic feeling , landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge highlight its colonial past times . Kolkata was once a massive deal and military frontier settlement for the British Empire , before many decennary of protest and fucking conflict won India its independency . The city ’s Durga Puja jubilation and love for lit make it a ethnic hub .
8. Surat (4.47 million)
Located in Gujarat , Suratis a major diamond and cloth fabrication hub . get it on as the Diamond City , it ’s a tight - growing urban center with clean streets and efficient substructure . The Tapi River and Dumas Beach add to its charm .
9. Pune (3.12 million)
Pune , often referred to as the Oxford of the East , is known for its educational foundation and vibrant scholar community . The metropolis ’s growing IT and self-propelled diligence make it a patronage hub . Its pleasant mood and cultural festivals add to its appeal .
10. Jaipur (3.05 million)
The " Pink City " ofJaipurin Rajasthan is famed for its imperial palaces , forts and vibrant bazaars . Landmarks like the Hawa Mahal and Amer Fort showcase its productive account . Jaipur ’s colorful festivals and traditional handicraft make it a pop tourist goal .
11. Lucknow (2.82 million)
The body politic upper-case letter of Uttar Pradesh , Lucknowis known for its Nawabi heritage and architectural grandeur . Landmarks like Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza reflect its rich account . The urban center ’s kebabs and chikan embellishment are renowned across India .
12. Kanpur (2.77 million)
Kanpur , located on the banks of the Ganges , is a major industrial metropolis cognize for its leather and textile industry . The city ’s Allen Forest Zoo and vivacious market add to its graphic symbol . Its history as a primal shopping center during British India is evident in its colonial architecture .
13. Nagpur (2.41 million)
recognise as the Orange City , Nagpuris a major center for trade , Education Department and industry in fundamental India . It ’s also the geographic center of India , marked by the Zero Mile Stone . The metropolis ’s Deekshabhoomi is an important site for followers of Buddhism .
14. Indore (1.96 million)
Indoreis one of the cleanest Indian cities , feature a thrive economy and vibrant culture . The city ’s Rajwada Palace and Sarafa Bazaar showcase its diachronic and culinary wealth . Its blend of modern infrastructure and traditional charm makes it a standout in Madhya Pradesh .
15. Patna (1.68 million)
Patna , the capital of Bihar , is one of the oldest city in India with a history go steady back to ancient Empire . Situated along the Ganges River , it is acknowledge for landmark like Golghar and the Patna Sahib Gurudwara . Its growing economy and educational institutions are shaping its modern identity .
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology , then made certain it was fact - check and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor program .
