Where is India Located?
Where is India located on the map? India is an independent nation located in Southern Asia. Check out the following images to see location of India on maps.
India Location in World Map
On this map you can see the great landscapes of India. The Indian subcontinent is separated from the rest of Asia by high mountains.
Location Information of India
India, officially known as the Republic of India, is located in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by land area and the second-most populous country in the world. India shares borders with several countries, including China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. The country is surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the south, the Bay of Bengal to the east, and the Arabian Sea to the west. India’s vast geographic diversity and rich cultural heritage make it one of the most unique and influential countries globally.
Latitude and Longitude
India spans from approximately 8°4′ N to 37°6′ N latitude and from 68°7′ E to 97°25′ E longitude. The capital city of New Delhi is situated at 28.6139° N latitude and 77.2090° E longitude. India’s vast territory covers a variety of latitudes and longitudes, making it one of the most geographically diverse nations in the world.
Capital City and Major Cities
New Delhi (Capital City)
New Delhi, the capital of India, is located in the northern part of the country and serves as the political, cultural, and economic heart of India. It is part of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, a large metropolitan area. The city is home to important institutions such as the Indian Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhavan (the President’s residence), and many government ministries. The city also features numerous historical landmarks, museums, and markets. Key attractions include:
- India Gate, a war memorial and one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks.
- Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Lotus Temple, a unique, lotus-shaped temple that welcomes people of all religions.
Mumbai
Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is India’s largest city and its financial capital. Located on the west coast of India along the Arabian Sea, Mumbai is the center of India’s film industry (Bollywood) and one of the largest economic hubs in Asia. With a population of over 20 million, Mumbai is a sprawling metropolis with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Key attractions in Mumbai include:
- Gateway of India, an iconic monument that was built during the British colonial era.
- Marine Drive, a famous seaside promenade offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Elephanta Caves, ancient rock-cut temples located on Elephanta Island.
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Bengaluru, also known as Bangalore, is the capital of the southern state of Karnataka and is often called the “Silicon Valley of India” due to its status as the country’s leading information technology (IT) hub. Bengaluru is known for its pleasant climate, lush gardens, and vibrant tech industry. Some of Bengaluru’s key attractions are:
- Bangalore Palace, a grand royal residence that resembles England’s Windsor Castle.
- Cubbon Park, a large public park in the heart of the city.
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden, known for its diverse collection of plants and the iconic glass house.
Chennai
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu and is located on the southeastern coast of India, along the Bay of Bengal. Known for its rich cultural heritage and thriving classical music and dance traditions, Chennai is also an important economic center. Key attractions in Chennai include:
- Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world.
- Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India, now a museum.
Kolkata
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the eastern state of West Bengal and was the former capital of British India. Kolkata is known for its colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and as a major center for literature and arts. Some of the top attractions include:
- Victoria Memorial, a grand white marble building dedicated to Queen Victoria, now a museum.
- Howrah Bridge, one of the busiest cantilever bridges in the world.
- Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India.
Hyderabad
Hyderabad, located in southern India, is the capital of the state of Telangana and a key center for the technology industry, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. The city is also known for its history, culture, and cuisine. Key attractions in Hyderabad include:
- Charminar, a 16th-century mosque with four grand arches.
- Golconda Fort, a historic fort with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Hussain Sagar Lake, a large artificial lake famous for its Buddha statue.
Time Zone
India follows a single time zone, known as Indian Standard Time (IST), which is UTC +5:30. Despite spanning over a large area geographically, the entire country operates on the same time zone, from the westernmost point in Gujarat to the easternmost point in Arunachal Pradesh. India does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST), so the time remains consistent throughout the year.
Climate
India has a diverse climate due to its vast size and geographical variation, ranging from the tropical climate in the southern regions to the temperate climate in the Himalayan foothills. The country experiences three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.
Summer (March to June)
India’s summer season generally starts in March and lasts until June. During this time, temperatures in much of the country can exceed 40°C (104°F), especially in the northern plains and central regions. Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai experience moderate temperatures, while cities like Jaipur, Chennai, and Hyderabad can become extremely hot. The southern regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu enjoy relatively cooler temperatures.
Monsoon (June to September)
The monsoon season in India begins around June and continues through September. It brings much-needed rain to the country, especially to the west coast and northeastern regions. The monsoon winds, originating from the Indian Ocean, provide heavy rainfall across the Himalayan foothills, northern plains, and coastal areas. The monsoon is critical for India’s agriculture, but it also causes flooding in low-lying areas.
Winter (October to February)
Winter in India is generally from October to February. The temperatures are cooler, especially in the northern and central regions. The northern parts of India, such as Delhi, Amritsar, and Kolkata, experience cold weather, with temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F). The southern regions, like Chennai and Bengaluru, remain relatively pleasant during this time. The winter season is considered the best time for tourism in India.
Economic Status
India is the fifth-largest economy in the world by nominal GDP and is classified as a newly industrialized country. It has a diverse economy, driven by sectors such as agriculture, services, manufacturing, and technology.
Key Economic Sectors
- Agriculture: India is one of the largest producers of agricultural products in the world. Major crops include rice, wheat, maize, cotton, sugarcane, and tea. Agriculture contributes around 18% to the country’s GDP and employs a large portion of the population.
- Manufacturing: India has a significant manufacturing sector, which includes industries such as automobiles, steel, cement, textiles, and chemicals. India is also one of the world’s largest producers of automobiles and automobile parts.
- Services: The services sector accounts for more than 55% of India’s GDP. This includes industries like information technology (IT), financial services, tourism, education, and healthcare. India is a major global hub for IT outsourcing, and cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad are known as technology and business hubs.
- Technology and Innovation: India has emerged as a leader in software development and IT services, with companies such as Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Infosys, and Wipro playing significant roles globally. The country is also investing heavily in space research, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology.
Challenges
Despite strong economic growth, India faces challenges such as income inequality, poverty, and unemployment. The country’s infrastructure also requires significant improvement, particularly in areas like transportation, electricity distribution, and healthcare.
Tourist Attractions
India is home to some of the most iconic and diverse tourist destinations in the world, offering a combination of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Taj Mahal (Agra)
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a symbol of eternal love. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum attracts millions of visitors annually.
Kerala Backwaters
The backwaters of Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, are a network of serene lagoons, lakes, and canals. Tourists can explore this picturesque region by houseboat, taking in lush green landscapes, coconut trees, and tranquil waters.
Jaipur (Pink City)
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known for its royal palaces, forts, and colorful markets. The Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal are some of the key attractions in the city.
Rishikesh and Haridwar
Both cities, located along the Ganges River in Uttarakhand, are sacred destinations for Hindus. Rishikesh is known as the yoga capital of the world, while Haridwar is a major pilgrimage site where thousands of devotees gather for the Ganga Aarti.
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens require a visa to travel to India. Tourist visas are the most common type of visa for short visits. The application process includes:
- A valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity.
- A completed visa application form.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- A valid return ticket.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
E-Visas are available for U.S. citizens for tourist, business, and medical purposes, valid for up to 60 days. The process is relatively simple, with approval typically granted within a few days.
Distance to New York City and Los Angeles
- New York City to New Delhi: The distance between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is approximately 7,300 miles (11,748 km), with a typical flight duration of about 14-15 hours.
- Los Angeles to New Delhi: The distance from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is around 8,200 miles (13,200 km), with a flight duration of approximately 16-17 hours.
India Facts
Size | 3,287,469 km² |
Residents | 1.4 billion |
Languages | Hindi, but also English and 17 other officially recognized languages |
Capital | New Delhi |
Longest river | Indus (3,180 km) |
Highest mountain | Kangchenjunga (8,598 m) |
Currency | Indian Rupee |