India, a land of diversity, is home to 28 states and 8 Union Territories, each with its own cultural, geographical, and historical significance. Understanding the Indian States and Capitals is essential for gaining insight into the country's political structure, regional governance, and heritage. This article provides a detailed overview of India's states, capitals, and their importance.
India is divided into regions, with each state having its own capital city, which serves as a political, administrative, and often cultural centre.
Below is a comprehensive list of Indian states and their capitals:
India has 28 states; here is a list of Indian states and capitals:
Download List of states in India in 2026 and their capitals pdf here
Additionally, Delhi serves as the National Capital Territory (NCT) and is also the capital of India.
Knowing the Indian States and their capitals is important for various reasons:
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.
As of 2026, India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
While Telangana was formed as the 29th state in 2014, the total number of states later changed after the reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
The idea of the States and Capitals of India took root during the Indian freedom struggle. As India moved closer to independence, the independent kingdoms that formed the Indian subcontinent signed treaties to merge princely-ruled states and form one unified nation, guided by shared values and goals.
As a result, the States and Capitals of India became part of a secular and sovereign republic that adopted democracy and the Constitution. At the time of Independence, the country comprised 552 princely states.
Over the years, boundaries have been redrawn to reorganise Indian states and capitals based on linguistic and regional identities. Today, the States and Capitals of India reflect this rich history and diversity, standing as 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.
The administrative unit of the elected government has the right to frame its laws.
The Chief Minister for administration leads the Legislative Assembly in each Indian state and capital.
The governor is a representative of the president in the state.
The central government directly administers and rules the Union Territories, which are small administrative units.
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.
India has a total of 28 states and 8 Union territories. Each state and territory has its own unique culture, language, and governance structure, contributing to India's rich diversity.
In 1956, there were 14 states and 6 Union Territories. These increased to 29 states and 7 Union Territories in 2014.
As of 2026, there are 28 states and 8 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:
Articles 2, 3, and 4 of the Indian Constitution provide provisions for the creation of new states. Most recently, Jammu and Kashmir were bifurcated into new Union Territories, with Srinagar in the summer and Jammu in the winter as the capital.
The 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 Amaravati as the official state capital of Andhra Pradesh.
The purpose of Indian states and capitals is to create smaller administrative units for self-governance. Thus, each state has its set of laws, its government, and its 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. The region is renowned for its ancient temples, such as Tirumala Venkateswara, and its stunning 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 the Bihu festival showcase its rich biodiversity and culture.
Bihar
Bihar, in 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, in 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, in 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 famous for its backwaters, lush greenery, and serene beaches. Highlights include Ayurveda, the Onam festival, and a blend of cultural influences.
Madhya Pradesh
Central Madhya Pradesh features historical monuments like the Khajuraho temples and Sanchi Stupa. The state offers diverse landscapes, rock paintings, and rich cultural heritage.
Maharashtra
Maharashtra, in 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, in eastern India, offers lush hills, scenic waterfalls, and living root bridges. Shillong, its capital, features pleasant weather and vibrant cultural scenes.
Mizoram
Mizoram, in northeastern India, is known for rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant tribal culture. The Chapchar Kut festival and unique crafts are key cultural highlights.
Nagaland
Nagaland, in northeast India, is famous for tribal cultures and festivals like the Hornbill Festival. It features lush hills, forests, and rich traditions in festivals and crafts.
Odisha
Odisha, on the 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. Punjab is renowned for its Bhangra dance, agricultural productivity, and vibrant festivals.
Rajasthan
Rajasthan, in northwestern India, is famous for desert landscapes, majestic forts, and vibrant culture. In cities like Jaipur and Udaipur, colourful festivals and traditional arts define the state.
Sikkim
Sikkim, in the 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, in 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
In 2014, Telangana gained recognition for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Hyderabad features landmarks like Charminar, and local cuisine includes dishes like Hyderabadi Biryani.
Tripura
Tripura, in 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, in 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, in 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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