Moving from Chennai for work – Need advice on localities, cost of living, and settling in!

Hi everyone,

I am a working professional currently living in Chennai, and I might be getting a job offer that requires me to relocate to Ludhiana soon. Since this is a major shift from South to North India, I would love to get some local insights to help me make my final decision. The prospective office is located in G.T. Road, Dhandari Kalan area. I would highly appreciate your help with a few questions:

1. Housing: What are the safest and best residential areas near my office location? What should I expect to pay for rent (looking for a 1BHK/2BHK or a furnished PG)?
2. Commute: Is the daily commute manageable? Are Uber/Ola easily available during peak hours, or should I plan to get a two-wheeler/car immediately?
3. Cost of Living: What is a realistic monthly budget for a single professional to live comfortably (rent, food, electricity, and utilities) in a decent neighborhood?
4. Food & Culture: As someone moving from Chennai, what should I know about the cultural transition? Also, are there good options for South Indian food when I get homesick, or any must-try local spots?

Any tips on dealing with the weather shift or general advice for an outsider settling into the city would be amazing. I can speak and understand Hindi decently, but I don't know Punjabi. Thank you in advance for all your suggestions and advice!