Which state has the longest coastline in India?

India is a country defined as much by its seas as its mountains. From the bustling ports of the west coast to the tranquil beaches of the east, the nation's coastline supports trade, tourism, fishing and some of the world's richest marine ecosystems.

Among all the coastal states, Gujarat has the longest coastline in India, stretching for approximately 1,600 kilometres along the Arabian Sea. That is nearly one-third of India's mainland coastline, making the western state a key player in the country's maritime economy.

Why Gujarat has the longest coastline

Unlike many other coastal states, Gujarat's shoreline is anything but straight.

The state wraps around two large inlets, the Gulf of Kutch and the Gulf of Khambhat, creating an intricate coastline filled with bays, estuaries and creeks. This distinctive geography significantly increases the length of its shoreline, placing it well ahead of every other coastal state in India.

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Its strategic location has also made Gujarat India's gateway to maritime trade for centuries. From ancient ports that connected India with the Middle East and Africa to today's modern shipping terminals, the coastline has long been central to commerce.

The coastline that powers India's economy

Gujarat's long shoreline is more than just a geographical record. It is one of the engines of India's economy.

The state is home to some of the country's busiest ports, including Mundra Port, India's largest commercial port, and Deendayal Port at Kandla, one of the nation's major government-owned ports. Together, they handle millions of tonnes of cargo every year, connecting India to global markets.

The coast also supports thriving industries such as fisheries, salt production, petrochemicals and shipbuilding. Thousands of fishing families depend on these waters for their livelihoods, while industries along the coast contribute significantly to the state's economy.

More than just ports

While Gujarat's ports often dominate headlines, its coastline is equally remarkable for its natural beauty.

Destinations such as Shivrajpur Beach near Dwarka, Mandvi Beach in Kutch and Tithal Beach attract visitors throughout the year. The state is also home to the Marine National Park in the Gulf of Kutch, India's first marine national park, where coral reefs, dolphins, sea turtles and hundreds of marine species thrive.

These ecosystems play an important role in conserving biodiversity while supporting sustainable tourism.

Which states come next?

After Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh has the second-longest coastline at around 975 kilometres, followed by Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Kerala, Odisha, Karnataka, West Bengal and Goa.

Together, India's coastal states form a shoreline that stretches for more than 7,500 kilometres when the island territories of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep are included.

Why the coastline matters more than ever

As climate change, rising sea levels and extreme weather events increasingly affect coastal regions, India's shoreline has become more important than ever. It is not only an economic lifeline but also a fragile ecological zone that supports mangroves, coral reefs, wetlands and millions of people.

For Gujarat, having India's longest coastline is more than a geographical distinction. It has shaped the state's history, economy and identity for centuries, and continues to make it one of the country's most strategically important regions.