How Many States in India

Table of Content
- What are States and Union Territories?
- The Emergence of Indian States and Capitals
- Indian States and Capitals
- List of Indian States and Capitals 2026
Indian States and Capitals
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:
List of States and Capitals in India 2026
India has 28 states; here is a list of Indian states and capitals:
- Andhra Pradesh – Amaravati
- Arunachal Pradesh – Itanagar
- Assam – Dispur
- Bihar – Patna
- Chhattisgarh – Raipur
- Goa – Panaji
- Gujarat – Gandhinagar
- Haryana – Chandigarh
- Himachal Pradesh – Shimla
- Jharkhand – Ranchi
- Karnataka – Bengaluru
- Kerala – Thiruvananthapuram
- Madhya Pradesh – Bhopal
- Maharashtra – Mumbai
- Manipur – Imphal
- Meghalaya – Shillong
- Mizoram – Aizawl
- Nagaland – Kohima
- Odisha – Bhubaneswar
- Punjab – Chandigarh
- Rajasthan – Jaipur
- Sikkim – Gangtok
- Tamil Nadu – Chennai
- Telangana – Hyderabad
- Tripura – Agartala
- Uttar Pradesh – Lucknow
- Uttarakhand – Dehradun
- West Bengal – Kolkata
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.
Indian States and Their Capitals – Regional Overview
Northern States
- Jammu and Kashmir - Srinagar (Summer), Jammu (Winter)
Known for its stunning landscapes and valleys.
- Himachal Pradesh - Shimla
The region is renowned for its picturesque hill stations and thrilling adventure sports.
- Punjab - Chandigarh
The region is rich in culture, music, and cuisine.
- Haryana - Chandigarh
It is a major agricultural state that boasts vibrant festivals.
- Uttarakhand - Dehradun
The state is renowned for its temples and scenic beauty.
- Uttar Pradesh - Lucknow
Home to the iconic Taj Mahal and rich heritage.
Eastern States
- Bihar - Patna
The region is renowned for its 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.
North-Eastern States
- Assam - Dispur
Known for tea gardens and biodiversity.
- Arunachal Pradesh - Itanagar
Features lush green landscapes and tribal culture.
- Manipur - Imphal
It is renowned for its unique culture and festivals.
- Meghalaya - Shillong
It is renowned for its abundant rainfall and breathtaking scenery.
- Mizoram - Aizawl
The region is renowned for its picturesque hills and vibrant tribal culture.
- Nagaland - Kohima
The region is rich in traditional culture and festivals.
- Tripura - Agartala
It is renowned for its historic temples and natural beauty.
- Sikkim - Gangtok
Famous for its stunning landscapes and monasteries.
Western States
- Rajasthan - Jaipur
Known for its historic forts and vibrant culture. - Gujarat - Gandhinagar
It is renowned for its diverse culture and rapid economic growth.
- Maharashtra - Mumbai
Mumbai, India's financial capital, boasts a rich cultural heritage.
- Goa - Panaji
Well-known for their beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Central States
- Madhya Pradesh - Bhopal
Rich in historical monuments and wildlife.
- Chhattisgarh - Raipur
Known for its forests and tribal culture.
Southern States
- Karnataka - Bengaluru
Major IT hub with rich cultural traditions.
- Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram
It is renowned for its backwaters and Ayurvedic treatments.
- Tamil Nadu - Chennai
Known for its rich history, temples, and cuisine.
- Andhra Pradesh - Amaravati
Amaravati is renowned for its historical landmarks and cultural festivals.
- Telangana - Hyderabad
Hyderabad is a major IT and cultural centre that has a rich history.
Importance of Knowing Indian States and Capitals
Knowing the Indian States and their capitals is important for various reasons:
- Educational Purpose: It is a fundamental aspect of geography studies, especially for students preparing for competitive exams like UPSC and state board exams.
- Travel and Exploration: Travelling through India requires knowledge of its states and capitals, as it enhances the travel experience, helping tourists navigate and appreciate the country’s diversity.
- Administrative and Governance Insight: Understanding state capitals helps comprehend the functioning of the Indian political system. It sheds light on the locations of key decision-making centres and regional governments.
How Many States are there in India, and What are their Capitals in 2026?
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.
List of 28 states of India and Capitals of India - History
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.
States and Capitals of India - 2026
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.
Here are the 8 Union Territories of India in 2026
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Chandigarh
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
- Lakshadweep
- Puducherry
- National Capital Territory of Delhi
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Ladakh
How Many Total States are there in India
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.
The Emergence of Indian States and their Capitals
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:
- 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 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.
28 Indian States and Union Territories of India
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.
Indian States and Capitals
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rajasthan is the largest state in India by area.
India currently has 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
Andhra Pradesh has three capitals: Amaravati, Visakhapatnam, and Kurnool.
Chandigarh serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana.
The 28 states and their capitals are:
- Andhra Pradesh - Amaravati
- Arunachal Pradesh - Itanagar
- Assam - Dispur
- Bihar - Patna
- Chhattisgarh - Raipur
- Goa - Panaji
- Gujarat - Gandhinagar
- Haryana - Chandigarh
- Himachal Pradesh - Shimla
- Jharkhand - Ranchi
- Karnataka - Bengaluru
- Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram
- Madhya Pradesh - Bhopal
- Maharashtra - Mumbai
- Manipur - Imphal
- Meghalaya - Shillong
- Mizoram - Aizawl
- Nagaland - Kohima
- Odisha - Bhubaneswar
- Punjab - Chandigarh
- Rajasthan - Jaipur
- Sikkim - Gangtok
- Tamil Nadu - Chennai
- Telangana - Hyderabad
- Tripura - Agartala
- Uttar Pradesh - Lucknow
- Uttarakhand - Dehradun
- West Bengal - Kolkata
The 29th state of India was Telangana, which was formed in 2014. India currently has 28 states.
Maharashtra has two capitals: Mumbai and Nagpur (winter capital).
Goa is the smallest state in India by area.
The 8 Union Territories of India are:
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Chandigarh
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
- Lakshadweep
- Delhi
- Puducherry
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Ladakh
Yes, India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
India is divided into 28 states based on historical, linguistic, cultural, and administrative factors to ensure effective governance and regional representation.
The names of Indian states are derived from the historical, cultural, geographical, and linguistic characteristics of their respective regions.
0 Comments