- In the states, the Governor, representing the President, serves as the head of the Executive.
- There are 28 states and 8 Union territories in India.
- Union Territories are administered by the President through an appointed Administrator.
Largest state (in terms of area): The largest state in India in terms of area is Rajasthan, covering a massive 342,239 square kilometers. This is approximately 10.4% of India’s total landmass.
The smallest state in India in terms of area is Goa, with a total area of 3,702 square kilometers. This is equivalent to just 0.11% of the country’s landmass.
Indian states: Key Points
Size and Population:
- Smallest State: Goa (3,702 sq km)
- Most Populous State: Uttar Pradesh (204.24 million)
- Least Populous State: Sikkim (610,577)
- Most Populous Union Territory (not incl Delhi): Puducherry (1.25 million)
- Least Populous Union Territory: Lakshadweep (64,473)
Density:
- Most Densely Populated State: Bihar (1,106/sq km)
- Least Densely Populated State: Arunachal Pradesh (17/sq km)
Special Characteristics:
- First State formed on Linguistic Basis: Andhra Pradesh
- Most Literate State: Kerala (95.9%)
- Least Literate State: Bihar (63.8%)
- State with the Longest Coastline: Gujarat (1,600 km)
- State with Boundaries with 7 States and 2 Countries: Assam
- State Surrounded on Three Sides by Bangladesh: Tripura
- State Surrounded by Three Countries and One State: Sikkim
- Number of States with Coastline: 9
- Number of Union Territories with Coastline: 4
States with Neither International Boundary nor Coastline:
- Madhya Pradesh
- Chhattisgarh
- Jharkhand
- Haryana
Questions
- Which state is the least populous in India?
- Which state is surrounded on three sides by Bangladesh?
- Which is the largest state in India in terms of area?
- Name the least densely populated state in India.
- How many states in India have a coastline?
- Which state is considered the most literate in India?
- Excluding Delhi, which union territory is the most populous?
- Which state in India has the longest coastline?
- Which state is the most densely populated in India?
- Which state is the least literate in India?
- Name the state surrounded by three countries and one state.
- How many Union Territories in India have a coastline?
- In terms of boundaries, which state shares borders with seven states and two countries?
- What is the smallest state in India?
- Which state is the most populous in India?
- Which union territory is the least populous in India?
- Which union territory is the most populous in India, excluding Delhi?
- Which was the first state to be formed on a linguistic basis
Answers
- Sikkim
- Tripura
- Rajasthan
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Nine
- Kerala
- Puducherry
- Gujarat
- Bihar
- Bihar
- Sikkim
- Four
- Assam
- Goa
- Uttar Pradesh
- Lakshadweep
- Puducherry
- Andhra Pradesh
Facts about Capital Cities of Indian States:
1. Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh)
- Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Itanagar is known for its natural beauty and tribal culture.
- It’s home to the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Museum, showcasing the state’s history and culture.
- The Ita Fort, built in the 14th century, stands as a historical landmark.
- Itanagar is also known for its Buddhist monasteries and temples.
2. Dispur (Assam)
- Dispur is a planned city located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.
- It houses the state assembly and other government buildings.
- The Assam State Museum is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the region’s rich history and culture.
- Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, is a significant religious site for Hindus.
3. Patna (Bihar)
- Patna is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the 6th century BC.
- It was the capital of the Magadha Empire, ruled by emperors like Ashoka and Chandragupta Maurya.
- Patna is known for its historical sites, including the Patna Museum, Golghar, and Takht Sri Patna Sahib Gurudwara.
- The city is also a major center for education and healthcare.
4. Raipur (Chhattisgarh)
- Raipur is a rapidly developing city known for its steel and cement industries.
- It’s home to the Chhattisgarh State Museum, which houses a collection of archaeological artifacts and historical documents.
- The city also boasts several temples, like the Mahamaya Temple and Dudhadhari Math.
- Raipur is a gateway to popular tourist destinations like Chitrakote Falls and Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary.
5. Panaji (Goa)
- Panaji is a charming city with a blend of Portuguese and Indian influences.
- The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Portuguese architecture.
- Panaji’s beaches, like Miramar and Dona Paula, attract tourists from across the globe.
- The city also offers vibrant nightlife and a diverse culinary scene.
6. Gandhinagar (Gujarat)
- Gandhinagar is a planned city designed by renowned architect Le Corbusier.
- It houses the Gujarat State Assembly, Secretariat, and other government buildings.
- The Akshardham Temple, with its intricate carvings and architecture, is a major tourist attraction.
- Gandhinagar is also known for its educational institutions and research centers.
7. Chandigarh (Haryana & Punjab)
- Chandigarh is a unique city, serving as the capital of both Haryana and Punjab.
- Designed by the famous Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, it is known for its planned layout and modernist architecture.
- The Rock Garden, created by Nek Chand using waste materials, is a must-visit for its creativity and artistry.
- Chandigarh offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a popular tourist destination.
8. Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
- Shimla is a picturesque hill station, once the summer capital of British India.
- The Ridge, a pedestrian mall, offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
- The Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Hanuman, is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Shimla is known for its colonial architecture, including the Viceregal Lodge and Christ Church.
- The city is also a gateway to popular trekking and skiing destinations.
9. Ranchi (Jharkhand)
- Ranchi is a rapidly developing city surrounded by hills and forests.
- It is known for its tribal culture and art forms, like Sohrai painting and Chhau dance.
- Ranchi houses the Tribal Welfare Museum, showcasing the diverse tribal communities of Jharkhand.
- The city is also a center for education and healthcare with renowned universities and hospitals.
10. Bengaluru (Karnataka)
- Bengaluru is the “Garden City of India” known for its parks, lakes, and greenery.
- It’s a global hub for information technology, earning the nickname “Silicon Valley of India.”
- The Bangalore Palace, built in Tudor style, is a landmark of the city.
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Bengaluru offers a vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary scene, and numerous shopping options.
11. Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)
- Thiruvananthapuram, popularly known as Trivandrum, is renowned for its ancient temples, backwaters, and beaches.
- The Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a major pilgrimage site with a unique architectural style.
- Kovalam and Varkala beaches are popular tourist destinations with beautiful coastlines and Ayurvedic treatments.
- Thiruvananthapuram is also a center for education and healthcare, with renowned universities and hospitals.
12. Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)
- Bhopal, the “City of Lakes,” is known for its natural beauty and historical monuments.
- The Upper Lake and Lower Lake are popular recreational spots offering boating and scenic views.
- The Taj-ul-Masjid, a magnificent white marble mosque, is a landmark of the city.
- Bhopal also boasts historical sites like the Sanchi Stupa and Bhojpur Temple Complex.
- The city is a center for education and research, with prestigious universities and institutions like the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research.
13. Mumbai (Maharashtra)
- Mumbai, the financial and entertainment capital of India, is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant culture.
- The Gateway of India, a monument built to commemorate the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary, is a major landmark.
- Marine Drive, a scenic coastal road, offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Mumbai is home to Bollywood, the Hindi film industry, and boasts iconic studios like Film City.
- The city is also a major center for commerce, with the Bombay Stock Exchange and numerous corporate headquarters.
14. Imphal (Manipur)
- Imphal, nestled in the Manipur Valley, is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
- It’s home to the Kangla Fort, a historic landmark dating back to the 11th century.
- Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, offers a unique ecosystem with floating phumdis (islands made of vegetation).
- Imphal is also known for its handloom industry, producing exquisite textiles like Moirang Phee and Khanglup Phi.
- The city hosts the Sangai Festival, showcasing Manipuri culture, dance, and music.
15. Shillong (Meghalaya)
- Shillong, nicknamed the “Scotland of the East,” is a picturesque hill station with rolling hills and waterfalls.
- Shillong Peak offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.
- The Elephant Falls and Shillong View Point are popular tourist attractions.
- Shillong is also known for its musical heritage, with renowned artists like Lou Majaw and Rewben Mashangwa.
- The city hosts the Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating the blooming of cherry trees in full beauty.
16. Aizawl (Mizoram)
- Aizawl, the “Land of the Blue Hills,” is a charming hill station known for its natural beauty and tribal culture.
- The Durtlang Hills offer breathtaking views of the city and surrounding greenery.
- The Mizoram State Museum showcases the state’s history, culture, and artifacts.
- Aizawl is also known for its handloom industry, producing colorful fabrics like Puan and Vawmkhawn.
- The city hosts the Chapchar Kut festival, celebrating Mizo culture with traditional dances, music, and food.
17. Kohima (Nagaland)
- Kohima, nestled in the Naga Hills, is known for its historical significance and cultural heritage.
- The Kohima War Cemetery commemorates the soldiers who died during World War II.
- The Naga Heritage Village showcases the traditional lifestyle and customs of different Naga tribes.
- Kohima is also renowned for its handloom industry, producing textiles like the Loin loom and Ao Naga shawls.
- The city hosts the Hornbill Festival, a week-long celebration of Naga culture with traditional dances, music, and food.
18. Bhubaneswar (Odisha)
- Bhubaneswar, the “Temple City of India,” is home to hundreds of ancient temples, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage.
- The Lingaraj Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a magnificent example of Kalinga architecture.
- The Kalinga Stadium, a modern sports complex, hosted the 2018 Men’s Hockey World Cup.
- Bhubaneswar is also known for its Odissi dance tradition, renowned for its graceful movements and vibrant costumes.
- The city hosts the Konark Dance Festival, held at the Sun Temple in Konark, showcasing classical Indian dances.
19. Chandigarh (Punjab)
- Chandigarh, jointly shared with Haryana, is a planned city known for its modern architecture and well
20. Jaipur (Rajasthan)
- Jaipur, the “Pink City,” is known for its vibrant colors, majestic forts, and historical palaces.
- The Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of Winds,” is a stunning example of Rajput architecture with intricate latticework.
- The Amber Fort, a former royal residence, offers breathtaking views of the city.
- Jaipur is also known for its handicraft industry, producing famous items like blue pottery, tie-dye fabrics, and jewelry.
- The city hosts the Jaipur Literature Festival, a renowned international literary event.
21. Gangtok (Sikkim)
- Gangtok, nestled in the Himalayas, is a picturesque hill station known for its stunning views and Buddhist monasteries.
- The Enchey Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, offers serene surroundings and beautiful views.
- The Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by mountains, is a popular tourist destination.
- Gangtok is also known for its rhododendrons, blooming in vibrant colors during spring.
- The city hosts the Losar festival, a Tibetan New Year celebration with colorful costumes, traditional dances, and music.
22. Chennai (Tamil Nadu)
- Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the cultural and commercial capital of Tamil Nadu.
- The Marina Beach, the second-longest urban beach in the world, offers a relaxing atmosphere and scenic views.
- The Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a renowned example of Dravidian architecture.
- Chennai is also known for its Carnatic music, a classical music form with a rich history and tradition.
- The city hosts the Madras Music Season, a prestigious festival featuring renowned Carnatic musicians and dancers.
23. Hyderabad (Telangana)
- Hyderabad, the “City of Pearls,” is known for its historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and IT industry.
- The Charminar, a 16th-century mosque, is an iconic landmark of the city with four minarets and intricate architecture.
- The Golconda Fort, once a major center for diamond trade, offers a glimpse into Hyderabad’s history.
- Hyderabad is also known for its Hyderabadi cuisine, with dishes like biryani and kebabs gaining worldwide popularity.
- The city hosts the Deccan Festival, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of Telangana with art, music, and dance performances.
24. Agartala (Tripura)
- Agartala, the “Gateway to the Northeast,” is a rapidly developing city known for its historical sites and scenic beauty.
- Tripura Sundari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Tripura Sundari, is a major Hindu pilgrimage site.
- The Ujjayanta Palace, a former royal palace, is now a museum showcasing the state’s history and culture.
- Agartala is also known for its handloom industry, producing exquisite silk fabrics like the Tussar Silk and Tripura Silk.
- The city hosts the Tripura Tourism Festival, showcasing the state’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and traditional dances.
25. Dehradun (Uttarakhand)
- Dehradun, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a popular hill station and educational hub.
- The Tapkeshwar Temple, a cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a holy site for Hindus.
- Robber’s Cave, a natural limestone cave, offers a unique adventure experience.
- Dehradun is also known for its scenic beauty, with popular tourist destinations like Sahastradhara waterfalls and Malsi Deer Park.
- The city hosts the Valley of Flowers Festival, celebrating the blooming of rare Himalayan flowers in the Valley of Flowers National Park.
India’s Land Neighbors and Bordering States
Pakistan:
- Gujarat
- Rajasthan
- Punjab
- Jammu & Kashmir
China:
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Himachal Pradesh
- Uttarakhand
- Sikkim
- Arunachal Pradesh
Nepal:
- Uttarakhand
- Uttar Pradesh
- Bihar
- West Bengal
- Sikkim
Bhutan:
- Sikkim
- West Bengal
- Assam
- Arunachal Pradesh
Myanmar:
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Nagaland
- Manipur
- Mizoram
Bangladesh:
- West Bengal
- Assam
- Meghalaya
- Tripura
- Mizoram
Indian States and their Capitals:
Indian States by Area
- 1. Rajasthan: 342,239 sq km
- 2. Madhya Pradesh: 308,245 sq km
- 3. Maharashtra: 307,713 sq km
- 4. Uttar Pradesh: 240,928 sq km
- 5. Gujarat: 196,024 sq km
- 6. Karnataka: 191,791 sq km
- 7. Andhra Pradesh: 162,968 sq km
- 8. Odisha: 155,707 sq km
- 9. Chhattisgarh: 135,191 sq km
- 10. Tamil Nadu: 130,058 sq km
- 11. Telangana: 112,077 sq km
- 12. Bihar: 94,163 sq km
- 13. West Bengal: 88,752 sq km
- 14. Arunachal Pradesh: 83,743 sq km
- 15. Jharkhand: 79,714 sq km
- 16. Assam: 78,438 sq km
- 17. Himachal Pradesh: 55,673 sq km
- 18. Uttarakhand: 53,483 sq km
- 19. Punjab: 50,362 sq km
- 20. Haryana: 44,212 sq km
- 21. Kerala: 38,963 sq km
- 22. Meghalaya: 22,429 sq km
- 23. Manipur: 22,327 sq km
- 24. Mizoram: 21,081 sq km
- 25. Nagaland: 16,579 sq km
- 26. Tripura: 10,486 sq km
- 27. Sikkim: 7,096 sq km
- 28. Goa: 3,702 sq km
Indian States by population
- Uttar Pradesh: 199,581,477
- Maharashtra: 112,372,972
- Bihar: 103,804,637
- West Bengal: 91,347,736
- Andhra Pradesh: 84,665,533
- Madhya Pradesh: 72,597,565
- Tamil Nadu: 72,138,958
- Rajasthan: 68,621,012
- Karnataka: 61,130,704
- Gujarat: 60,383,628
- Odisha: 41,947,358
- Telangana: 35,193,978
- Kerala: 33,387,677
- Jharkhand: 32,966,238
- Assam: 31,169,272
- Punjab: 27,704,236
- Haryana: 25,353,081
- Chhattisgarh: 25,540,196
- Delhi: 16,753,235
- Jammu and Kashmir: 12,267,013
- Uttarakhand: 11,116,752
- Himachal Pradesh: 6,856,509
- Tripura: 3,671,032
- Meghalaya: 2,964,007
- Manipur: 2,721,756
- Nagaland: 1,980,602
- Goa: 1,457,723
- Arunachal Pradesh: 1,382,611
- Mizoram: 1,091,014
- Sikkim: 607,688
- Puducherry: 1,244,464
- Chandigarh: 1,054,686
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu: 585,764
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands: 379,944
- Ladakh: 274,289
- Lakshadweep: 64,429kl