The concept of States and Capitals of India began to take shape during the Indian freedom struggle. As the date for India’s declaration as a free country neared, the independent kingdoms of the Indian sub-continent signed a treaty to merge and form one independent nation, defined by common ethos and goals. Thus, India became a secular, sovereign republic that adopted democracy and a constitution. At the time of independence, India had 552 princely states. Over the years, new states and capitals were established based on common language or regional identities, leading to the current configuration of State and Capitals of India. India has 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own distinct state capital, reflecting the rich diversity of State and Capitals of India.
India has 28 states here’s a list of Indian states and capitals :
Additionally, Delhi serves as the National Capital Territory (NCT) and is also the capital of India.
Jammu and Kashmir - Srinagar (Summer), Jammu (Winter)
Known for its stunning landscapes and valleys.
Himachal Pradesh - Shimla
Famous for picturesque hill stations and adventure sports.
Punjab - Chandigarh
Rich in culture, music, and cuisine.
Haryana - Chandigarh
Major agricultural state with vibrant festivals.
Uttarakhand - Dehradun
Known for temples and scenic beauty.
Uttar Pradesh - Lucknow
Home to the iconic Taj Mahal and rich heritage.
Bihar - Patna
Known for ancient monuments and festivals.
Jharkhand - Ranchi
Rich in mineral resources and natural beauty.
West Bengal - Kolkata
Major cultural hub with historic significance.
Odisha - Bhubaneswar
Famous for ancient temples and festivals.
Assam - Dispur
Known for tea gardens and biodiversity.
Arunachal Pradesh - Itanagar
Features lush green landscapes and tribal culture.
Manipur - Imphal
Renowned for its unique culture and festivals.
Meghalaya - Shillong
Famous for its high rainfall and scenic views.
Mizoram - Aizawl
Known for its picturesque hills and tribal culture.
Nagaland - Kohima
Rich in traditional culture and festivals.
Tripura - Agartala
Known for its historic temples and natural beauty.
Sikkim - Gangtok
Famous for its stunning landscapes and monasteries.
Rajasthan - Jaipur
Known for its historic forts and vibrant culture.
Gujarat - Gandhinagar
Famous for its diverse culture and economic growth.
Maharashtra - Mumbai
India’s financial capital with a rich cultural heritage.
Goa - Panaji
Known for its beaches and nightlife.
Madhya Pradesh - Bhopal
Rich in historical monuments and wildlife.
Chhattisgarh - Raipur
Known for its forests and tribal culture.
Karnataka - Bengaluru
Major IT hub with rich cultural traditions.
Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram
Famous for its backwaters and Ayurvedic treatments.
Tamil Nadu - Chennai
Known for its rich history, temples, and cuisine.
Andhra Pradesh - Amaravati
Known for its historical landmarks and cultural festivals.
Telangana - Hyderabad
Major IT and cultural center with a rich history.
India has 28 states. Additionally, it has 8 Union Territories. Explore the comprehensive list of Indian states and their capitals, along with the history and significance of their formation. Learn about the Union Territories and their capitals, and test your knowledge with our interactive quiz.
The idea of the States and Capitals of India took root during the Indian freedom struggle. As the date of India being declared a free country neared, the independent kingdoms that formed the Indian sub-continent signed a treaty to merge princely ruled states and form one independent country, defined by common ethos and goals. Thus, the States and Capitals of India became part of a secular, sovereign republic that adopted democracy and the constitution. At the time of independence, the country had 552 princely states. Over the years, new lines were drawn to demarcate the Indian states and their capitals based on common language or regional identities. Today, the States and Capitals of India reflect this rich history and diversity. The States and Capitals of India are a testament to the nation's journey and evolution.
India has a rich history, unique demography, and varied culture, clothing, languages and festivals. A state is a division under an Indian constituency and has a separate government. It is the administrative unit of the elected government which has the right to frame its laws. Each Indian state and capitals has its Legislative Assembly led by the Chief Minister for administration. The Governor is the representative of the President in the state.
Union territories are small administrative unit which is ruled by the union and administered directly by the central government. A Lieutenant Governor is appointed to it as an administrator. Except for Delhi and Puducherry, Union Territories have no representation in the Rajya Sabha. India’s official capital, New Delhi is also a union territory.
In 1956, there were 14 states and 6 union territories. These increased to 29 states and 7 union territories in 2014. As of 2024, there are 28 states and 9 Union Territories in the country. The states and union territories are divided into districts. The states were originally divided on linguistic lines, however, among the new states, many speak a common language. For instance, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have Telugu as their official language. Jharkhand was separated from Bihar and shares many languages and cultures with the state. Uttarakhand was separated from Uttar Pradesh, and along with Madhya Pradesh and Delhi, their state language is Hindi.
Articles 2,3, and 4 of the Indian Constitution give provisions for creating new states. Most recently, Jammu and Kashmir were bifurcated into new union territories, sharing Srinagar in Summer and Jammu in Winter as the capital.
Indian states of Punjab and Haryana and the Union Territory of Chandigarh share Chandigarh as the common capital. Telangana and Andhra Pradesh used to share Hyderabad as a common capital until the election of Amravati as the official state capital of Andhra Pradesh.
The purpose of Indian states and capital is to create smaller administrative units for self-governance. Thus, each state has its set of laws, their government, and law and order machinery.
Andhra Pradesh: In southeastern India, Andhra Pradesh features diverse culture, rich history, and vibrant cuisine. Amaravati and Visakhapatnam are key cities. Known for ancient temples like Tirumala Venkateswara and landscapes such as the Eastern Ghats.
Arunachal Pradesh: Northeast India’s Arunachal Pradesh is celebrated for stunning natural beauty and tribal cultures. Highlights include Tawang Monastery and Ziro Valley's picturesque landscapes amidst lush forests and the Himalayas.
Assam: Assam, in northeastern India, is renowned for tea plantations and vibrant festivals. Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros, and Bihu festival showcase its rich biodiversity and culture.
Bihar: Bihar, eastern India, is a historical hub with ancient universities like Nalanda and Bodh Gaya, the birthplace of Buddhism. Its diverse traditions and languages reflect its cultural depth.
Chhattisgarh: Central India's Chhattisgarh is known for tribal culture, dense forests, and natural resources. Attractions include Chitrakote Falls and Hundru Falls, with vibrant local arts and crafts.
Goa: Goa, on the western coast, is famous for beaches, nightlife, and Portuguese heritage. Visitors enjoy beach parties, historical churches, and a relaxed tropical atmosphere.
Gujarat: Gujarat, western India, boasts a diverse culture, historical sites, and economic growth. Highlights include Gir National Park’s Asiatic lions and the Rann of Kutch's salt desert.
Haryana: Haryana, near Delhi, is noted for agriculture and economic growth. Key sites include Kurukshetra and Gurgaon, blending traditional culture with modern urban development.
Himachal Pradesh: Northern Himachal Pradesh offers picturesque landscapes, including Shimla and Manali. Known for its snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and serene monasteries, it’s a year-round tourist destination.
Jharkhand: Jharkhand, eastern India, is rich in natural resources and cultural diversity. It features dense forests, waterfalls, and vibrant festivals reflecting its cultural richness.
Karnataka: Karnataka, southern India, is known for Bengaluru’s IT sector and historic sites like Hampi. It offers a diverse landscape, including coastal regions, forests, and hill stations.
Kerala: Kerala, "God's Own Country," is famed for backwaters, lush greenery, and serene beaches. Highlights include Ayurveda, Onam festival, and a blend of cultural influences.
Madhya Pradesh: Central Madhya Pradesh features historical monuments like Khajuraho temples and Sanchi Stupa. The state offers diverse landscapes, rock paintings, and rich cultural heritage.
Maharashtra: Maharashtra, western India, includes Mumbai, the financial capital. Attractions encompass historic forts, beautiful beaches, and festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali.
Manipur: Northeast Manipur is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Highlights include scenic landscapes, Manipuri dance, and festivals like Yaoshang.
Meghalaya: Meghalaya, eastern India, offers lush hills, scenic waterfalls, and living root bridges. Shillong, its capital, features pleasant weather and vibrant cultural scenes.
Mizoram: Mizoram, northeastern India, is known for rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant tribal culture. Chapchar Kut festival and unique crafts are key cultural highlights.
Nagaland: Nagaland, northeast India, is famous for tribal cultures and festivals like Hornbill Festival. It features lush hills, forests, and rich traditions in festivals and crafts.
Odisha: Odisha, eastern coast, is renowned for ancient temples like Jagannath Temple and beautiful beaches. Key cultural aspects include classical Odissi dance and festivals like Rath Yatra.
Punjab: Punjab, northern India, features a rich cultural heritage with landmarks like the Golden Temple. Known for Bhangra dance, agricultural productivity, and energetic festivals.
Rajasthan: Rajasthan, northwestern India, is famous for desert landscapes, majestic forts, and vibrant culture. Cities like Jaipur and Udaipur, colorful festivals, and traditional arts define the state.
Sikkim: Sikkim, eastern Himalayas, offers stunning natural beauty and biodiversity. Attractions include Kanchenjunga and vibrant monasteries, reflecting its unique cultural heritage and eco-friendly tourism.
Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu, southern India, is known for ancient temples, classical dance, and distinctive cuisine. Major sites include Madurai temples, Chennai beaches, and hill stations like Ooty.
Telangana: Telangana, formed in 2014, is recognized for historical and cultural richness. Hyderabad features landmarks like Charminar, and local cuisine includes dishes like Hyderabadi Biryani.
Tripura: Tripura, northeastern India, is noted for tribal culture and natural beauty. Attractions include Ujjayanta Palace, lush green landscapes, and vibrant traditional festivals.
Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh, northern India, is a cultural hub with landmarks like the Taj Mahal and Varanasi’s ghats. Its rich heritage and diverse traditions span major cities and historical sites.
Uttarakhand: Uttarakhand, northern India, features Himalayan landscapes and spiritual sites. Popular destinations include Nainital, Rishikesh, and Char Dham temples, with opportunities for yoga and adventure sports.
West Bengal: West Bengal, eastern India, is renowned for its cultural heritage, including literature and art. Kolkata, its capital, boasts historic landmarks and vibrant cultural activities, from the Sunderbans to the Himalayas.
The 28 states and their capitals are:
The 8 Union Territories of India are:
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