Tropic of Cancer in India: the eight states to remember for GK
A geography revision note with the state sequence from west to east and a reminder not to confuse the Tropic of Cancer with other latitude lines.
The Tropic of Cancer passes through eight Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura and Mizoram.
The eight-state list
From west to east, the Tropic of Cancer crosses Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura and Mizoram. This is the standard state list used in Indian geography revision.
The line lies at approximately 23.5 degrees north latitude. It marks the northern limit of the Sun’s overhead position at the June solstice, but local climate also depends on altitude, monsoon patterns and landforms.
Why the list matters
The Tropic of Cancer is a reference line for maps, latitude and climate zones. It does not divide India into two equal areas and it does not mean every place along the line has the same weather.
Trace the line from Gujarat across central India and then east toward the northeastern states. A map-based method is more reliable than memorising the states in a random order.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse the Tropic of Cancer with the Equator, which lies south of India, or the Tropic of Capricorn, which lies in the Southern Hemisphere.
For map questions, use an authoritative map or recognised geography text and check the source used by the exam.
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Frequently asked questions
How many Indian states does the Tropic of Cancer cross?
Eight.
Name the states from west to east.
Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura and Mizoram.