Which is the Only City that is the Capital of Two Indian States?

In India, every state usually has its own separate capital city where government offices and leaders function. However, there is one unique city that stands apart from the rest — it serves as the capital of not one, but two states. This rare arrangement has an interesting history and special administrative setup that makes it a popular topic for general knowledge and competitive exams.

City that is the Capital of Two Indian States

In India, Chandigarh is the only city that serves as the capital of two states — Punjab and Haryana. It holds a special place because it is not part of either state but is governed directly by the Central Government as a Union Territory. Chandigarh is also famous for its modern design, cleanliness, and greenery, making it one of India’s most well-planned and beautiful cities.

Why Chandigarh became the Capital of Two States?

The story of Chandigarh’s dual status goes back to 1966, when the state of Haryana was created by dividing the old state of Punjab based on language differences. After the division, both Punjab and Haryana needed their own capitals to run government offices.

Instead of spending resources to build two entirely new capitals, the Government of India decided that Chandigarh — which was already well-developed — would serve as the shared capital for both states.
Although this arrangement was initially temporary, Chandigarh soon became the permanent administrative hub for both Punjab and Haryana.

Today, the city hosts the Punjab and Haryana Secretariats, their legislative assemblies, and many other important offices. It has become a symbol of unity, showing how two states can share a common space peacefully and efficiently.

A City Designed for the Future

Unlike most Indian cities that grew naturally over time, Chandigarh was carefully planned and built after India’s independence. The famous French architect Le Corbusier designed the city with a modern vision — wide roads, neatly divided sectors, green parks, and open spaces.

His goal was to create a city that represented a new, progressive India. Chandigarh’s layout follows the principles of simplicity, balance, and harmony with nature. Even today, it stands out as one of the cleanest and most organized cities in the country.

How Chandigarh is Governed?

Though it serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh does not belong to either state. It is officially a Union Territory, meaning it is directly governed by the Central Government.

The city is administered by a Lieutenant Governor, who oversees local governance. Interestingly, the Governor of Punjab also acts as the Administrator of Chandigarh, showing the city’s special link with both states.

Chandigarh is also home to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which handles cases from both states. This shared judicial setup highlights the city’s importance as a legal and political center for North India.

Interesting Facts About Chandigarh

• Only city in India with two capitals: Chandigarh uniquely serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana.
• A Union Territory: It is not part of any state but governed by the Central Government.
• Designed by Le Corbusier: The world-famous architect gave Chandigarh its modern, planned structure.
• Judicial center for two states: The Punjab and Haryana High Court operates here.
• Clean and green city: Known for its cleanliness, wide roads, and lush greenery, it often tops India’s cleanliness rankings.