Where Can I Teach In India?

Thinking of teaching English as a Foreign Language in India? Wondering, where can I teach in India?Have no idea where to look? We don’t blame you. India is a big, big country. It is the 7^th largest country in the world in terms of land. It shares land borders with Pakistan to the west, China, Nepal and Bhutan to the north, Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east, and bound by the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal in the south. With over 4 000 towns and cities it can be daunting to narrow down exactly where in India you want to teach. 

To help answer this question of where can I teach in India? Here are the top cities to teach English as a Foreign Language.

New Delhi

To say that New Delhi is crazy would be an understatement. Chaotic streets with cars, rickshaws, scooters and cows, people everywhere you look, and smells which settle into your skin, New Delhi is the vibrant, energetic and crazy capital of India. 

The majority of TEFL jobs in India are to be found in Delhi, mostly in international schools. When you’re not teaching, you can tantalise your tastebuds on every corner, shop to your heart’s content, or explore historical forts, temples and ruins.

Mumbai

Mumbai is India’s largest city. It is a thriving metropolis of over 21 million people, which is home to many foreigners. It is the commercial centre of India and home to India’s wealthiest businessman but it is also home to India’s largest slum population. 

Mumbai is an expensive city to live in. Accommodation is limited and pricey, but the shopping is to die for. When not shopping you can explore the Elephanta caves, walk along the beach, or who knows, you could end up starring in the latest Bollywood film.

Jaipur

Ah, the pink city! As a historic city, there are many forts and palaces for you to explore in Jaipur, including the Amber Fort, the Hawa Mahal Palace of the Winds, and Tiger Fort.  

There are not many foreigners living in Jaipur, and those that are, are often only there for a short time. On the other hand, Jaipur, as the capital of Rajasthan, is a popular destination for tourists. As another bonus, Jaipur has one of the lowest pollution rates in India. 

Bangalore

Bangalore has been given the titles of both “the world’s most dynamic city” and “India’s most liveable city”. It is also known as India’s Silicon Valley, as it is the major IT hub of the country. As a result, Bangalore is a bustling, cosmopolitan city which caters for young working professionals. While it is quite a populous city, it is known for its parks and its green spaces. 

Bangalore is the most developed Indian city but is also the most affordable. If you’re looking for a good work-life balance, entertainment, shopping, culture, food and good weather, then Bangalore is where you should be.

Chennai

Chennai is a city of opposites, with a thriving nightlife as well as peaceful beaches and spiritual temples. India’s fourth largest city and the biggest tourist attraction in South India, Chennai manages to strike the perfect balance between its heritage and its new modern personality. 

From old temples and churches to towering skyscrapers and the second largest beach in the world, this is the city to live in if you enjoy history and culture and a more relaxed way of life. 

Kolkata

Kolkata is the “City of Joy” and the “Cultural Capital of India” and is considered the artistic, cultural and intellectual capital of the country. Its beautiful Victorian architecture is a remnant of its British history, while its famous street food is undeniably Indian.

From history to food to art, there’s a famous quote which sums it all up: If you want a city with a soul, come to Calcutta (Kolkata). 

India might not be the top of the list for TEFL destinations, but it is surely an interesting choice. So where can I teach in India? You have plenty of options. If you decide to make your way to this part of the world, there is no doubt you will be embarking on an adventure of a lifetime.