NRI's Guide to Living in Bangalore

As per a study, around 3, 00,000 Indian professional working overseas were likely to return to India between the years 2011-2015 to help shape the country’s economy. Amongst the top 5 metropolis, Bangalore led the recruitment drive in 2013, by hiring most number of NRI professionals in the country. The city also has an upbeat start-up culture that has encouraged several IT professional working abroad to leave their lucrative jobs and start their own venture.  Deemed as the “Silicon Valley of India”, it is therefore not surprising as why Bangalore is the most preferred destination for expats and NRIs to live and work.

For an NRI the prospect of returning home is indeed exciting. However, amidst all that excitement there is a certain degree of unsurety and nervousness.   Starting a life all over again in a new city can be a daunting task.  Bangalore like any other city in country has its own up’s and down.  For starter, the city is known for pleasant and mild climate throughout the year being located over 3000 feet above sea level. The city also has some of the best gardens, modern amenities and a popular, cosmopolitan culture that truly resonate new India.

On the flip side, Bangalore is known for its chaotic traffic jams and steep real-estate prices that can eat out of your saving or income. Depending upon the location of purchase the price of average sized plot for sale in Bangalore can range from anything between 6 lacs to 1 crore.However, if you are equipped with the right information and the beginning of your move, we can assure you that your life would be tad-bit easier and a whole lot fun. So, here begins our guideline for NRI’s living in Bangalore.

#Be prepared for Surprises

We know you are used to living a life which is predictable and orderly.  Although an urban center, Bangalore can be maddening at times.  In certain parts of the city there is paucity of electricity and water supply.  Average power cut is anywhere between 4-6 hours. Most high rises building have a power-backup system that provided un-interrupted power supply to your home. However, if you live in an independent home, its best advised to install a powerful UPS or inverter battery that will take care of basic power needs in your home. Also, get used to storing water as sometimes supply can be stringent.

# Learn to Time yourself differently

Bangalore traffic is its biggest woe. People are known to be stuck in traffic jams for hours. You are never sure how long it can take you to reach your destination. So if you have to attend a meeting at a certain time, make sure you have a margin of at least an hour.

# Make real-estate investment wisely

According to a finding published by ASSOCHAM (The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry) in 2014, Bangalore is the most favorite property investment destination for NRIs. Real estate agencies have a lot to offer to potential investors. There are several independent plots for sale in Bangalore, which works to be a good buy provided you want to build an independent house or a farm house. Then there are charming high rise residential societies with all the basic amenities such as the swimming pool, club house, super market, cycling tracks etc. But remember, everything comes at a price. So, unless you have adequate saving or a mortgage plan worked-up do not invest indiscriminately.  We strongly urge you to take assistance of a property consultant and a financial advisor to help you take a sound decision. 

# Late night culture is not as your expect

Bangalore is home to one of the best pubs and restaurant in the country. Average Bangaloreans love to party and visit night clubs. However, light night culture is very different in Bangalore than rest of the world. As per Government regulation, all pubs and night clubs have to cease operations by 11:30 PM on weeknights and by 1 PM on weekends, namely Friday and Saturday.  You must also remember that the legal age to consume alcohol in the state of Karnataka is 21 years.

#Amazing Getaway destinations

Don’t be bogged down by the cities stringent late night culture. To keep your social life active and on track, Bangalore has some beautiful getaway destinations within a few hours’ drive from the city. Some, popular tourist destinations are Mysore, Coorg, Honnemardu, Chikmagalur and many more. You can just drive down to these places with your family and friends over the weekend to unwind from your hectic and demanding city life.

# Quality Education

If you are moving from abroad to Bangalore and you are worried about your child’s education, then put to worries at rest. Bangalore is home to one of the best educational institutions, both schools and colleges. It is home to the prestigious National Law School and Christ University and a number of technical and engineering colleges. School education in Bangalore is also very good. There are a number of IB and ICSE schools that will take care of your child’s educational needs.