Is it 29, 28, or 36? Do you often find yourself confused about the number of states located in India? Don’t worry; we’re here to clear your confusion once and for all.
India is a developing country where several states and union territories keep on getting amended every few years.
Presently, there are 28 states and 8 Union Territories in India.
Let’s look at our comprehensive list of the Indian states, their location, specialties, history, major tourist attractions, and much more. So that you never get confused about what are the states in India.
What are the states in India- on the northern side?
1. Himachal Pradesh
Located in the northern part of India, the state of Himachal Pradesh lies in the lap of the Great Himalayan mountains. The capital city of Himachal Pradesh is Shimla. The geography is mountainous.
The popular hill station of Himachal Pradesh offers many outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, ice-skating, trekking, rafting, and heli-skiing. Manali, Shimla, Mcleodganj, Dalhousie, Spiti, and Kasol are some of the best tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh.
2. Punjab
If you ask what states in India are famous for agricultural and lush grasslands, Punjab will be at the top of the list.
Its capital is Chandigarh, which is interestingly a Union territory too. Punjab has multiple rivers running across its length and breadth.
Famous for Golden Temple, Wagah border, Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, MC Zoological Park in Zirakpur, and Harike Wetland in Ferozepur.
3. Uttrakhand
What are the states in India famous for religious activities? Surrounded by the Himalayas, the state of Uttrakhand is very well known for its Hindu pilgrimage sites. Its capital city is Dehradun.
Famous for Auli, Chopta, Nainital, Mussoorie, Chakrata, Munsiyari, Rishikesh, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Valley of Flowers.
4. Haryana
What are the states in India famous for producing world-class athletes? Haryana tops the list for sure. Haryana is best known for two things- farming and sports. Chandigarh is a shared capital of Haryana and Punjab.
Famous for Morni Hills, Damdama Lake, Manesar, Murthal, and food treats including churma, milk, and lassi.
Haryana also has some unique folk music, dance, handicrafts, and pottery.
5. Uttar Pradesh
If you ask, what are the states in India with high political activity? The political powerhouse of India is certainly Uttar Pradesh.
Uttar Pradesh hosts one of the Seven Wonders of the world- The Taj Mahal.
Uttar Pradesh is famous for the Ganges River, Ayodhya, Kushinagar, Agra, Varanasi, Vrindavan, Lucknow, Allahabad, Mathur, Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, Abkar’s Tomb, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Mehtab Bagh.
What are the states in India towards the east?
6. Bihar
Bihar is a highly fertile land located in East India.
Its capital city of, Patna, has been a historically important place.
Bihar is famous for Ashokan Pillar, Barabar Caves, Nalanda University, Bodhi Tree, Muchalinda Lake, Griddhakuta Peak, and Rajgir Hot Springs.
7. West Bengal
West Bengal is a state located on the eastern side of India. West Bengal has an important place in Indian history.
It was a major trading port during British rule. Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal.
West Bengal is famous for Sundarbans, Siliguri, Darjeeling, Bagdogra, Shantiniketan, and Howrah Bridge.
8. Sikkim
Sikkim is a popular state for its mild climate and abudnace of biodiversity along with subtropical and alpine features. In addition to that, it is home to the highest peak in India-Kangchenjunga.
A jewel in the northeastern part of India, Sikkim is one of the most beautiful and serene holiday destinations in India. The land also features famous monasteries, pristine lakes, waterfalls, and great hiking and shopping spots.
Major Tourist Attractions: Gangtok, Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Kanchenjunga Base Camp, Rumtek Monastery.
9. Odisha
Located on the Bay of Bengal, the state of Odisha is famous for its tribal cultures and ancient Hindu temples.
Jagannath Temple · 2. Nandankanan Zoological Park · 3. Dhauli Giri Hills · 4. Harishankar · 5. Museum of Tribal Arts & Artifacts Puri Beach Festival and the Jagannath Rath Yatra
10. Jharkhand
To the east of Madhya Pradesh lies the mineral-rich state of Jharkhand.
It’s famous for rich mineral resources like Coal, Uranium, Mica, Bauxite, Granite, Gold, Silver, Graphite, Magnetite, Dolomite, Fireclay, Quartz, Fieldspar.
Deoghar · 2. Jamshedpur · 3. Ranchi · 4. Betla National Park · 5. Ghatshila · Jonha Falls, Hirni Falls, Dassam Falls and Hundru.
What are the states in India in the central region?
11. Chattisgarh
Chhattisgarh is a place popularly known for its forested nature.
It is home to several indigenous tribes as well. The capital city is Raipur.
Chattisgarh has an abundance of minerals like coal, iron ore, limestone, bauxite, and dolomite, as well as its significant deposits of tin, manganese ore, gold, and copper.
It also has beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, caves, and heritage temples.
12. Madhya Pradesh
The state of Madhya Pradesh is located in the center of India. Its capital is Bhopal. The present shape of Madhya Pradesh was given by combining numerous former princely states of central India.
What are the states in India with high forest cover? Madhya Pradesh is among the top contenders for the most forested state.
Madhya Pradesh is famous for The Historic City of Gwalior, Khajuraho, The Caves of Bhimbetka, Wildlife at Bandhavgarh, The Hills of Pachmarhi, and the Ancient Temples at Ujjain.
13. Telangana
Telangana is a newer state carved out of Andhra Pradesh. Its capital is Hyderabad.
Telangana is worldwide famous for its amazing Bronze castings, and delicious Hyderabadi biryani, along with visits to touristy places like Ramoji Film City, Golconda Fort, Ananthagiri Hills, Ramappa Temple, Salar Jung Museum, Sri Anantha Padmanabha.
What are the states in India on the western end?
14. Rajasthan
Rajasthan- The land of kings, is a treasure trove of rich cultural heritage sites. Its capital is Jaipur.
If you ask what the states in India with a desert landscape are, Rajasthan will be at the top of the list. Rajasthan boasts an impressive amalgamation of natural beauty and manmade structures as home to majestic palaces and vast sand dunes. It’s widely known for its colorful culture.
Major Tourist Attractions: Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Mount Abu, Ranthambore National Park.
15. Gujarat
The state of Gujarat is located on the west coast of India. Its capital is Gandhinagar.
Gujarat is famous for Somnath Temple, Statue of Unity, Gandhi Ashram, Gir National Park, Lothal- a city from ancient India, Uparkot Fort, Sun Temple Modhera, Dwarkadhish Temple, Palitana Jain Temple, Junagadh Buddhist Caves, White Desert Kutch, Adalak Stepwell.
16. Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s capital is Mumbai, also known as “The Finance Capital of India.” Mumbai is also the hub of the Indian cinema industry called- Bollywood.
Maharashtra is famous for Mumbai, Elephanta Caves, Ajanta Caves, Aurangabad, Ellore Caves, Ganapati Phule, and Shirdi. Matheran, Mahabaleshwar, Nashik, Khandala, Lonavala.
What are the states in India on the southern side?
17. Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh is a state that lies in the coastal area of the southeastern region of India.
Andhra Pradesh was the first state to be formed on linguistic lines.
It is often called the Kohinoor of India because of the Golconda diamond mines. A part of Andhra Pradesh has turned into a separate state of Telangana just a few years ago.
Andhra Pradesh is famous for Goddess Alamelumanga Temple, Tirumala Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Kanipakam, Srikalahasti Temple, Chandragiri Fort, Horsley Hills, and Silathoranam.
18. Tamil Nadu
The southern most state of India!
Tamil Nadu is famous for Hindu temples and monuments at Mamallapuram, Sunrise at Kanyakumari, Dolls and Paintings at Thanjavur, Kanchipuram for the Silks, Marina Beach, Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai
19. Goa
Goa is famous among international tourists for some adrenaline rush!
Goa is widely loved by adventurers and young travelers from around the world who flock here to soak up the sun. It is well-known for its beautiful beaches, hippie vibes, recreational activities, and vibrant parties.
Major Tourist Attractions: Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Falls, Aguada Fort, Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach.
20. Karnataka
Karnataka – The land of gold, stands first in the production of gold in India.
Karnataka is famous for- Historical & Heritage city of Mysore state, Bangalore – The City of Diverse Existence, Bandipur National Park – In Harmony with Nature,Coorg – Queer but Captivating, Hampi Cubbon Park,Mysuru Palace, Wonderla Amusement Park, Lalbagh Botanical Garden.
21. Kerala
Adorned with the emerald backwaters, sprawling and lush tea estates, pristine hill stations, Kerala is one of the most desired holiday destinations in India for people seeking relaxation.
Major Tourist Attractions: Kovalam, Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Tea Gardens, Fort Kochi, Munnar, Alleppey, Spa and Ayurvedic Therapy.
What are the states in India that form the group called Seven Sisters?
The north-eastern region is blessed by mother nature and is fondly called as the Seven Sisters States. The region is home to many indigenous tribes. The Seven Sisters are a beautiful combination of landscapes, people, culture and art & craft which provides an experience to cherish for a lifetime. Let’s see the north-eastern states of India and their capitals.
Most famous places of North East India are- Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya, Shilloi Lake, Nagaland, Gorichen Peak, Arunachal Pradesh, Umiam Lake, Meghalaya, Loktak Lake, Manipur, Mawlynnong Village, Meghalaya, Tripura Sundari Temple, Tripura, Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. Biodiversity rich national parks of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh are a bills for nature lovers.
22. Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh- The land of rising Sun!
Arunachal Pradesh is the easternmost state of India. The capital of Arunachal Pradesh is Itanagar.
It became a full-fledged State on February 20, 1987. This state shares international borders in the North, West and East.
Bumla Pass, Pangsau Pass, Madhuri Lake, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Mechuka Valley, Namdapha National Park, Tawang, Sela Pass, Tezu, Dirang, Pasighat.
23. Assam
The state of Assam is famous for its wildlife, archeological sites and tea plantations. It’s capital city is Dispur. Assamese language, eastern Indo-Aryan (Indic) language is the official language of Assam.
Majuli Island, Kamakhya Temple, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Umananda Temple, Brahmaputra River, Purva Tirupati Shri Balaji temple, Barpeta, Umananda Island, Nameri National Park, Tinsukia.
24. Nagaland
Nagaland is a mountainous region. It borders the country called Myanmar.
Nagaland is home to diverse indigenous tribes, which are famous for festivals and markets celebrating the different tribes’ culture. Its capital city is Kohima.
Nagaland is famous for Kisama Heritage Village, Triple Falls, Honkong Market, Kohima War Cemetery, Nagaland Zoological Park, Nagaland State Museum, Khonoma Village, Phek, Shilloi Lake Dimapur; Kohima; Mokokchung; Mon; Wokha; Dzukou Valley.
25. Manipur
Manipur is a northeastern state famous for its dance, culture and natural beauty. Manipur is the birthplace of Raas Lila- a renowned form of classical dance. Imphal is the capital of the Manipur state.
Manipur’s major tourist attractions include Loktak Lake · Dzukou Valley · Ema Keithel Market · Kangla Fort · Hijagang · Shri Govindjee Temple ·INA Museum ·Singda Dam · Shri Govindajee Temple · Loktak Lake · Kangla Fort · Imphal Valley · Shirui Kashung · Santhei Natural Park · Keibul Lamjao National Park
26. Meghalaya
Meghalaya- The abode of Clouds! Meghalaya is well known for its dazzling greenery and prolonged monsoon rains.
Meghalaya was carved out of Assam through a state reorganization act and it got full statehood in the year 1972.
Its capital is located at Shillong.
The famous places of Meghalaya are Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Wards, Lake, and Don Bosco Museum, Cherrapunji, Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Balpakram National Park, Kyllang Rock, Mawlynnong Village, Baghmara.
27. Tripura
Tripura is a hilly state bordering Bangladesh. It is a diverse mix of Tribal cultures. The capital of Tripura is located at Agartala. It’s famous for breath taking views of cultivations, tea plantations, beautiful gardens, toy trains.
Most famous places of Tripura are: Unakoti · Baramura Eco Park · Dumboor Lake · Jampui Hills · Kamalasagar Picnic Spot and Neermahal Palace, Ujjayanta Palace, Tripura Sundari Temple, Heritage Park, Tripurasundari Temple.
28. Mizoram
Mizoram means “land of the Mizos”. Mizoram is a home to many indigenous tribes.
Mizoram is known as the Land of Blue Mountains, because the hills are crisscrossed by gushing rivers and high sparkling waterfalls. The capital of Mizoram is located at Aizwal.
Famous things of Mizoram include- Hmuifang, Tamdil Lake, Chanmari, Handicraft museum · Lunglei sightseeing, Khawnglung wildlife sanctuary, Phawngpui Hills · Phulpui Grave · Memorial of Chhingpui · Vantawang Falls · Thenzawl · Palak Lake.
What are the union territories of India?
Union territories were introduced in India through the States Reorganisation Act, 1956. Union Territories are administered by the Union Government of India. They are also known as centrally administered territories.
The Lieutenant Governor serve as the administrator of Union Territories and is appointed by the President of India. There are currently 8 (eight) Union territories in India.
1. Union territory of Ladakh
Ladakh is truly a heaven on Earth. It’s a recent addition to the list of union territories in India . Ladakh was made a separate union territory by bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir on 31 October 2019. The UT of Ladakh does not have a Legislature. There are two districts in Ladakh – Leh and Kargil.
2. Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir became an Union territory after the dissolution of Article 370 through an amendmentto the Indian Constitution.
Jammu and Kashmir has its own legislature, similar to Puducherry and Delhi. It can elect its own chief minister.
3. Union territory of Chandigarh
The Union Territory of Chandigarh is the capital of both Punjab as well as Haryana. Despite being the capital of both the states of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is governed directly by the central government.
Geographically, the state of Punjab lies to Chandigarh’s north, south and west while the state of Haryana lies to the east. Chandigarh is a very well planned city with beautiful gardens like the rock garden.
4. Union territory of Delhi
Delhi is an Union territory and the capital of India.
The heartbeat of India, New Delhi, is a mesmerizing mix of diverse cultures. Experience the mouth-watering delicacies in the lanes of old Delhi and tour historical monuments laden with a rich history for a soul-enriching trip. Delhi is an Union territory with its own legislature and chief minister.
New Delhi houses the constitutional head of India and the Indian parliament is also located in here. The national capital territory region of Delhi extends to the bordering Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
Major Tourist Attractions: India Gate, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Chandni Chowk, Akshardham Temple.
5. Union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
Two union territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu were merged together into a single union territory in January 2020. Daman is the capital city of this new union territory.
This small Union territory borders the state boundaries of Maharashtra and Gujarat. It is surrounded by the hills of the Western Ghats and the Arabian sea. The Portuguese heritage of this UT makes it famous amongst history enthusiasts.
6. Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep literally means a ‘hundred thousand islands’. It has some of the most beautiful and exotic islands and beaches of India. It’s put under the direct control of the central government.
Lakshadweep is among Union terriotories witout a legislature. Lakshadweep is the smallest among all the union territories of India in terms of area and lies in the Laccadive sea south-west from the Indian peninsula mainland.
7. Pondicherry
With a superabundance of attractions to visit and fabulous landscapes, amazing people and culture, Pondicherry is a land like no other. This former French Colony is located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Mahe, Pondicherry, Karaikal and Yanam are the main districts in the union territory of Pondicherry.
Pondicherry is also known as Puducherry and commonly referred to as just Pondy. Pondicherry is often famously referred to as the French Riviera of the East because of its charming beauty and culture.
8. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
A distant land located far away from the mainland states of India- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands were the first union territory of India. The union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is situated to the south-east of the mainland Indian Peninsula.
It’s surrounded by the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. The Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar does not have a legislature. Indian government directly controls such Union territories from the Centre.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are rich in lagoons of crystal clear water and scenic beaches.
These islands are most famous for Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Neil Island, Kalapani Jail, Viper Island, Chidiya Tapu Beach, and Mount Harriet National Park.
So, this was the comprehensive list of Indian states and union territories. Hope all your doubts regarding the states and union territories of the democratic Republic of India are clear now!
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Last Updated on by Laveleena Sharma