States and Capitals in India : India is the seventh largest country in the world by land area, covering approximately 3.287 million square kilometers (1.269 million square miles). It is located in South Asia. India is Divided into 28 states and 8 Union territories, each State have its own capital city. The states and union territories are divided into smaller parts called districts and subdivisions. The Capital city of India is New Delhi. It is governed by Central Government of India. In this blog you will get detailed information about States and capitals in India.
List of Indian States and Capitals in India
India has a total of 28 states and 8 union territories. Each place has its own special culture and history. We have mentioned below the complete list of 28 States and Capitals of India:
| S.No | States Name | Capital |
| 1 | Andhra Pradesh | Amaravati |
| 2 | Arunachal Pradesh | Itanagar |
| 3 | Assam | Dispur |
| 4 | Bihar | Patna |
| 5 | Chhattisgarh | Raipur |
| 6 | Goa | Panaji |
| 7 | Gujarat | Gandhinagar |
| 8 | Haryana | Chandigarh |
| 9 | Himachal Pradesh | Shimla |
| 10 | Jharkhand | Ranchi |
| 11 | Karnataka | Bengaluru |
| 12 | Kerala | Thiruvananthapuram |
| 13 | Madhya Pradesh | Bhopal |
| 14 | Maharashtra | Mumbai |
| 15 | Manipur | Imphal |
| 16 | Meghalaya | Shillong |
| 17 | Mizoram | Aizawl |
| 18 | Nagaland | Kohima |
| 19 | Odisha | Bhubaneswar |
| 20 | Punjab | Chandigarh |
| 21 | Rajasthan | Jaipur |
| 22 | Sikkim | Gangtok |
| 23 | Tamil Nadu | Chennai |
| 24 | Telangana | Hyderabad |
| 25 | Tripura | Agartala |
| 26 | Uttar Pradesh | Lucknow |
| 27 | Uttarakhand | Dehradun (Winter)Gairsain (Summer) |
| 28 | West Bengal | Kolkata |
List of Union Territories and Capitals
Union Territories are regions that are governed directly by the central government of India, rather than having their own separate state governments. In the given below list of the union territories of India, along with their capital cities:
| S.No | Union Territories Name | Capital |
| 1 | Andaman and Nicobar Islands | Port Blair |
| 2 | Chandigarh | Chandigarh |
| 3 | Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu | Daman |
| 4 | Delhi | New Delhi |
| 5 | Jammu and Kashmir | Srinagar (Summer)Jammu (Winter) |
| 6 | Lakshadweep | Kavaratti |
| 7 | Puducherry | Pondicherry |
| 8 | Ladakh | Leh |
States and Capitals of India Map
India is a vast country with a rich and diverse culture. It is also home to a wide variety of geographical features, including mountains, deserts, forests, and rivers. The country is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own unique identity. This map shows the states and capitals of India. The states are colour-coded to make them easier to identify. The capitals are indicated by black dots. The map also includes a key that shows the names of the states and capitals. You can check states and capital and union territories on map of India.
Map Source: www.mapsofindia.com
List of the Indian States and their Languages
India is a diverse country with multiple languages spoken across its states. Here is a list of the Indian states along with the primary languages spoken in each of them:
| S.No | States | Language |
| 1 | Andhra Pradesh | Telugu and Urdu |
| 2 | Arunachal Pradesh | Miji, Apotanji, Merdukpen, Tagin, Adi, Honpa, Banging-Nishi |
| 3 | Assam | Assamese |
| 4 | Bihar | Hindi |
| 5 | Chhattisgarh | Hindi |
| 6 | Goa | Marathi Konkani |
| 7 | Gujarat | Gujarati |
| 8 | Haryana | Hindi |
| 9 | Himachal Pradesh | Hindi and Pahari |
| 10 | Jharkhand | Hindi |
| 11 | Karnataka | Kannada |
| 12 | Kerala | Malayalam |
| 13 | Madhya Pradesh | Hindi |
| 14 | Maharashtra | Marathi |
| 15 | Manipur | Manipuri |
| 16 | Meghalaya | Khashi, Jaintia, And Garo |
| 17 | Mizoram | Mizo and English |
| 18 | Nagaland | Ao, Konyak, Angami, Sema, and Lotha |
| 19 | Odisha | Oriya |
| 20 | Punjab | Punjabi |
| 21 | Rajasthan | Rajasthani and Hindi |
| 22 | Sikkim | Bhutia, Hindi, Nepali, Lepcha, Limbu |
| 23 | Tamil Nadu | Tamil |
| 24 | Telangana | Telugu |
| 25 | Tripura | Bengali, Tripuri, Manipuri, Kakborak |
| 26 | Uttar Pradesh | Hindi |
| 27 | Uttarakhand | Hindi |
| 28 | West Bengal | Bengali |
States of India with their Specialities
India is a vast and diverse country, with 28 states and 8 union territories. Each state has its own unique culture, cuisine, and attractions. Here is a list of the 28 states in India, along with some of their specialities:
1. Andhra Pradesh – The Land of Spices and Temples
- Spicy cuisine: Andhra Pradesh is known for its spicy food, which is made with a variety of spices, including chili peppers, turmeric, and coriander. Some popular dishes include biryani, Dosa, and idly.
- Historical sites: Andhra Pradesh is home to many historical sites, including the Vijayanagara Empire ruins at Hampi and the Buddhist stupas at Amaravati.
- Culture: Rich culture in art, music, and dance: Andhra Pradesh has a rich culture in art, music, and dance. Some popular forms of art include classical dance forms such as Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam.
2. Arunachal Pradesh – The Abode of Clouds
- Breathtaking landscapes: Arunachal Pradesh is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers.
- Diverse tribal cultures: Arunachal Pradesh is home to a diverse range of tribal cultures, each with its own unique traditions and customs.
- Tawang Monastery: Tawang Monastery is one of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in India.
3. Assam – The Tea Capital of the World
- Tea plantations: Assam is known for its tea plantations, which produce some of the finest tea in the world.
- Kaziranga National Park: Kaziranga National Park is home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses.
- Bihu dance: Bihu is a traditional Assamese dance that is performed during the spring festival.
- Traditional silk weaving: Assam is known for its traditional silk weaving, which produces a variety of beautiful fabrics.
4. Bihar – The Land of Enlightenment
- Mithila art: Mithila art is a traditional folk art form that is characterised by its complex patterns and bright colours.
- Patna Museum: Patna Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in India. It houses a collection of artefacts from India’s rich history.
- Nalanda University: Nalanda University was a Buddhist university that develop during the Gupta Empire. It was one of the most important centres of learning in the world at that time.
5. Chhattisgarh – The Rice Bowl of India
Chhattisgarh is also known as the “Rice Bowl of India,” for its rich paddy fields and tribal culture. The state’s diverse landscapes are a treat for nature lovers.
- Tribal culture: Chhattisgarh is home to a diverse range of tribal cultures, each with its own unique traditions and customs.
- Dandiya Raas dance: Dandiya Raas is a traditional Gujarati dance that is performed during the Navratri festival.
- Kanger Valley National Park: Kanger Valley National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.
6. Goa – The Pearl of the Orient
- Beaches: Goa is known for its beautiful beaches, which are lined with palm trees and offer stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Seafood: Goa is known for its fresh seafood, which is cooked in a variety of traditional Goan dishes.
- Portuguese influence: Goa has a strong Portuguese influence, which is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and culture.
7. Gujarat – The Land of Legends
- Spices: Gujarat is known for its spices, which are used in a variety of Indian dishes. Some popular spices from Gujarat include turmeric, chili peppers, and coriander.
- Textiles: Gujarat is known for its textiles, which are made from a variety of materials, including cotton, silk, and wool.
- Rann of Kutch: Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh that transforms into a white desert during the winter months.
8. Haryana – The Green Land of India
- Shopping: Haryana is known for its shopping, especially for its traditional handicrafts and textiles.
- Historical Forts: Haryana is home to a number of forts, which were built by various rulers over the centuries.
- Temples: Haryana is also home to a number of temples, including the Pinjore Gardens, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. Himachal Pradesh – The Land of Gods
- Hill stations: Himachal Pradesh is known for its hill stations, which offer stunning views of the Himalayas. Some popular hill stations in Himachal Pradesh include Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie.
- Trekking: Himachal Pradesh is a popular destination for trekking, with a variety of trails to choose from.
- Kullu Valley: Kullu Valley is a beautiful valley in Himachal Pradesh that is known for its lush green forests and picturesque villages
10. Jharkhand – The Land of Forests
Jharkhand, in eastern India, is celebrated as “The Land of Forests” due to its lush greenery and rich mineral resources. It’s a state with a unique blend of nature and industry.
- Handicrafts: Jharkhand is known for its exquisite handicrafts, such as Tassar silk, Dokra art.
- Natural beauty: Jharkhand is a state with stunning natural beauty. The best Tourist destinations like Betla National Park, Netarhat, and Parasnath Hill.
11. Karnataka – The Silicon Valley of India
Karnataka is located in southern India, is often referred to as “The Silicon Valley of India” due to its thriving IT industry. It’s also known for its cultural heritage and historic monuments.
- Rich history and heritage: Karnataka boasts a rich historical legacy with sites like Hampi, Mysore Palace, and Badami Caves, showcasing intricate architecture and ancient cultural significance.
- Delicious cuisine and coffee: Karnataka is renowned for its mouthwatering dishes such as Bisi Bele Bath and Rava Idli, as well as its high-quality coffee, particularly in the coffee-growing region of Coorg.
12. Kerala – God’s Own Country
Kerala state is located in the southwestern region, is famous worldwide as “God’s Own Country.” Its backwaters, lush greenery, and Ayurvedic traditions attract travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Natural Beauty: Kerala is known as “God’s Own Country” for its lush green landscapes, backwaters, and pristine beaches.
- Education and Literacy: Kerala is known for its high literacy rate and quality education. The state invests heavily in education, and its achievements in the field have gained international recognition.
13. Madhya Pradesh – The Heart of India
Madhya Pradesh state situated in central India, is known as “The Heart of India” because of its central location on the Indian map. It’s home to numerous wildlife sanctuaries and historical sites.
- Spirituality: The state is a centre of spiritual significance with towns like Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and Maheshwar along the Narmada River, attracting pilgrims and seekers from all over India for their temples and spiritual ambiance.
- Gwalior Fort and Music: Gwalior Fort is a majestic hill fort known for its stunning architecture and historical importance. Madhya Pradesh also has a rich musical heritage, with Gwalior being a renowned centre for classical music, particularly Hindustani classical music.
14. Maharashtra – The Land of Marathas
Maharashtra, in western India, is celebrated as “The Land of Marathas.” It’s renowned for its vibrant cities, cultural diversity, and delectable cuisine, including the world-famous Mumbai street food.
- Financial Hub: Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra, It is famous for financial and entertainment capital. It’s home to Bollywood, the Bombay Stock Exchange, and a vibrant mix of cultures and cuisines.
- Marathi Cuisine: Maharashtra is famous for its diverse cuisine, offering mouthwatering dishes like Vada Pav, Misal Pav, and Puran Poli. The street food culture and seafood along the Konkan coast are particularly popular.
- Festivals and Culture: Maharashtra celebrates various festivals with grandeur, such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Lavani dance, and vibrant folk art forms. Pune, the cultural capital, hosts events like the Pune International Film Festival and cultural performances.
15. Manipur – The Jewel of India
Manipur, in northeastern India, is often referred to as “The Jewel of India” due to its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s famous for its traditional dance forms and unique festivals.
- Unique Culture: Manipur is known for its distinct cultural heritage, including traditional dance forms like Manipuri dance and Ras Leela, which are characterised by graceful movements and colourful costumes.
- Handloom and Handicrafts: Manipur is famous for its intricate handloom textiles, including the traditional Phanek (sarong) and shawls. Additionally, artisans create beautiful handicrafts, such as pottery and bamboo products.
- Traditional Sports: Manipur is the birthplace of modern polo, and the state is passionate about sports like polo, which is a symbol of its rich sporting heritage. Indigenous games like Thang-Ta (martial art) are also practiced.
16. Meghalaya – The Abode of Clouds
Meghalaya, located in the northeastern region, shares its title, “The Abode of Clouds,” with Arunachal Pradesh. It’s known for its pristine hills, living root bridges, and heavy rainfall.
- Mawlynnong – Cleanest Village: Mawlynnong, a village in Meghalaya, is often cited as the cleanest village in Asia, known for its pristine cleanliness, eco-friendly practices, and living root bridges.
- Abundant Waterfalls: The state is home to numerous waterfalls, including Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest in India, and the Seven Sisters Falls. These cascading waterfalls are set amidst lush green forests and are a visual treat.
- Caving and Adventure: Meghalaya is a paradise for cave explorers, with intricate cave systems like Mawsmai Caves and Siju Cave, offering thrilling adventures for spelunkers
17. Mizoram – The Land of the Highlanders
Mizoram, another northeastern gem of India, is celebrated as “The Land of the Highlanders.” Its hilly terrain and vibrant tribal culture make it a unique destination for travelers.
- Scenic Landscapes: Mizoram is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with lush green hills, dense forests, and picturesque valleys.
- Mizo Culture: The state is predominantly inhabited by the Mizo people, who have a rich cultural heritage. Their traditional dances, such as Cheraw (bamboo dance), and vibrant festivals like Chapchar Kut and Mim Kut, are integral parts of Mizo culture.
- Peaceful Environment: Mizoram is often referred to as one of the most peaceful states in India, with low crime rates and a harmonious coexistence of various communities and religions.
18. Nagaland – The Land of Festivals
Nagaland, in the northeastern part of India, is famous as “The Land of Festivals” due to its numerous tribal celebrations. It offers a glimpse into the rich tribal heritage of the region.
- Naga Tribes: Nagaland is primarily inhabited by Naga tribes, each with its unique customs, languages, and traditional dresses. The Naga people are known for their vibrant cultural diversity.
- Traditional Naga Cuisine: Naga cuisine is known for its spiciness and use of bamboo shoots. Smoked pork, bamboo shoot curry, and dishes prepared with locally grown herbs are popular among locals and visitors alike.
19. Odisha – The Soul of India
Odisha, on the eastern coast, is often referred to as “The Soul of India” because of its ancient temples, pristine beaches, and rich artistic traditions like the Pattachitra paintings.
- Puri Rath Yatra: The annual Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra, where Lord Jagannath’s chariot is pulled by thousands of devotees, is one of the grandest religious processions in India, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists.
- Chilika Lake: Chilika, Asia’s largest coastal lagoon, is a biodiversity hotspot and a vital habitat for migratory birds, including flamingos and Irrawaddy dolphins, making it a significant eco-tourism destination.
- Odissi Dance: Odisha is the birthplace of Odissi, a classical dance form known for its graceful movements and storytelling through dance. The state is a hub for classical arts and dance.
20. Punjab – The Land of Five Rivers
Punjab is located in northern India, It is celebrated as “The Land of Five Rivers” due to the five major rivers that flow through it. It’s famous for its agricultural abundance and vibrant Punjabi culture.
- Rich Agriculture: Punjab is often referred to as the “Granary of India” due to its fertile land and high agricultural productivity, especially in wheat and rice cultivation, contributing significantly to India’s food security.
- Sikh Heritage: The state is the birthplace of Sikhism, and it is home to many historic Sikh gurudwaras, including the Golden Temple in Amritsar, which is a major pilgrimage site for Sikhs and a symbol of religious harmony.
- Cuisine: Punjabi cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes such as butter chicken, sarson da saag, and various types of naan and paratha bread. It’s characterized by rich gravies and generous use of spices and ghee.
21. Rajasthan – The Land of Kings
Rajasthan, in northwestern India, is known as “The Land of Kings” due to its grand palaces, majestic forts, and colorful traditions. It’s a living testimony to India’s royal history.
- Historical Forts and Palaces: Rajasthan is renowned for its majestic forts and opulent palaces, including the Amber Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and City Palace in Jaipur. These architectural marvels reflect the state’s royal heritage.
- Colourful Culture: Rajasthan is known for its vibrant culture, with colourful turbans, ghagras (skirts), and traditional Rajasthani attire. The state’s folk music, dance, and festivals like Diwali and Holi are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
- Art and Handicrafts: Rajasthan is a hub for traditional art forms like miniature painting, pottery, and block printing. The state is also known for its jewellery, including Kundan and Meenakari work, as well as textiles like Bandhani and Leheriya.
22. Sikkim – The Land of Mystical Beauty
Sikkim, nestled in the Himalayas, is celebrated as “The Land of Mystical Beauty.” Its snow-capped peaks, Buddhist monasteries, and pristine landscapes make it a haven for nature lovers.
- Himalayan Beauty: Sikkim’s stunning landscapes include the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, lush valleys, alpine forests, and serene lakes like Tsomgo (Changu) Lake, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and trekkers.
- Gangtok: The Gangtok is a vibrant city and capital of Sikkim, nestled in the mountains, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm. It’s a gateway to explore Sikkim’s natural beauty.
- Monasteries: Sikkim is dotted with monasteries, including Rumtek Monastery and Pemayangtse Monastery, which are not only places of worship but also centers of Buddhist art and culture.
23. Tamil Nadu – The Land of Temples
Tamil Nadu, in the southern part of India, It is famous as “The Land of Temples” due to its rich temple architecture and cultural heritage. It’s a spiritual and historical treasure trove.
- Temples and Architecture: Tamil Nadu is renowned for its ancient and architecturally magnificent temples, including the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, showcasing Dravidian architecture and intricate stone carvings.
- Cultural Heritage: The state has a rich cultural heritage with classical arts like Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music flourishing here. Chennai, the capital, hosts the annual Chennai Music and Dance Festival, drawing artists and art enthusiasts from around the world.
- Marina Beach: Marina Beach in Chennai is one of the longest urban beaches in the world, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and bustling activity, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
24. Telangana – The Newest State
Telangana, the youngest state in India, It is known for its rapid urbanization and historic landmarks. It’s an emerging hub for technology and business in the country.
- Hyderabad – Tech Hub: The Hyderabad is a Capital of TelanganaIt is a major technology and business hub in India, home to the HITEC City (Cyberabad) and several global IT companies, earning it the nickname “Cyberabad.”
- Rich Heritage: Telangana has a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites like the Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Qutb Shahi Tombs reflecting its architectural and historical significance.
- Delectable Cuisine: The state offers a diverse culinary experience with famous dishes such as Hyderabadi Biryani, Haleem, and Mirchi ka Salan, known for their unique flavors and spices.
25. Tripura – The Tiny Emerald State
Tripura state located in Northeastern India, It is often called “The Tiny Emerald State” due to its lush greenery. It’s known for its diverse culture and serene landscapes.
- Cultural Diversity: Tripura is known for its diverse cultural heritage with various indigenous communities like the Tripuris, Bengalis, and indigenous tribal groups. This cultural diversity is reflected in the state’s festivals, languages, and traditional attire.
- Natural Beauty: The state is blessed with lush green hills, dense forests, and pristine lakes. Neermahal, a palace built in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake, is a unique example of royal architecture amidst natural beauty.
26. Uttar Pradesh – The Heartland of India
Uttar Pradesh, located in northern India, is celebrated as “The Heartland of India” because of its central role in India’s history and politics.
- Taj Mahal: Uttar Pradesh is home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, renowned for its stunning Mughal architecture and romantic history.
- Spiritual Centers: The state has several important pilgrimage sites, including Varanasi (Kashi), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and Ayodhya, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama.
- Cultural Diversity: Uttar Pradesh boasts a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and festivals like Holi and Diwali celebrated with great fervour.
27. Uttarakhand – The Land of Gods and Goddesses
Uttarakhand is known as “The Land of Gods and Goddesses” due to its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and adventurers alike.
- Himalayan Landscapes: Uttarakhand is known for its breathtaking Himalayan scenery, including picturesque hill stations like Mussoorie, and the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, offering opportunities for trekking, adventure sports, and spiritual retreats.
- Char Dham Yatra: The state is a prominent destination for pilgrims, with the Char Dham Yatra (Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri) considered one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimages, attracting devotees from across the country.
- Jim Corbett National Park: Uttarakhand is home to India’s first national park, Jim Corbett National Park, known for its rich biodiversity, including Bengal tigers and Asian elephants.
28. West Bengal – The Cultural Capital of India
West Bengal is also known “The Cultural Capital of India”. It is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, including classical music, dance forms like Kathak and Rabindra Nritya, and world-renowned literature and cinema, with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore hailing from the state.
- Diverse Cuisine: The state offers a diverse and delectable cuisine, featuring iconic dishes like roshogolla, sandesh, maach (fish) curry, and sweets like rasgulla.
- Durga Puja: West Bengal is famous for its grand Durga Puja festival, where elaborate pandals (temporary temples) are constructed, and artistic idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped, attracting millions of visitors.
- Kolkata – City of Joy: The capital city, Kolkata, is known for its intellectual and artistic contributions, as well as its colonial architecture, historic sites, and vibrant street culture.
FAQ
1. How many States and UTs are present in India 2023?
There are 28 states and 8 Union territories in India.
2. Which states of India have a common capital?
The states of Punjab and Haryana share the common capital of Chandigarh.
3. Which is the smallest Union Territory of India?
Lakshwadeep is the smallest Union Territory of India.
4. Which is the largest state in India?
According to the area, Rajasthan (342,239 sq km) is the largest state in India.
5. What is the official capital of Republic of India?
The official capital of the Republic of India is New Delhi.
6. Which is the smallest state of India?
According to area, Goa (3702 km) is the smallest state of India.
7. Is India a 8 or 9 union territories?
There are only 8 Union territories in India.