Complete List of Major Ports in India and India’s Largest Port
India’s maritime network has evolved into one of the most strategic pillars of global trade, connecting the country with major international markets across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. With an expansive 7,517 km coastline, the nation’s port infrastructure handles nearly 95% of its international trade by volume. Understanding the major ports in India, their functions, and the role they play in economic development offers valuable insights for traders, logistics professionals, and businesses relying on maritime transportation.
Below is a comprehensive, deeply researched, and highly structured guide to the major port ecosystem, including the largest port in India, the 2nd largest port in India, and insights on how many ports in India contribute to the country's trade efficiency.
India’s Port Landscape: Overview of How Many Ports in India
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13 Major Ports
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200+ Non-Major Ports operational or under development
Combined, these ports enhance maritime connectivity, with major ports contributing over 60% of the nation's cargo traffic.
This wide network does not just support cargo movement it strengthens supply chains, boosts exports, and positions India as a global maritime powerhouse. Companies involved in global shipments often rely on accurate trade trends from an export data provider to optimize routing and port selection.
India’s Largest Port: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT)
1. Jawaharlal Nehru Port (Nhava Sheva), Maharashtra Largest Port in India
Key Highlights
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Manages more than 5 million TEUs annually
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Strategic proximity to Mumbai industrial clusters
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State-of-the-art automated terminals, dredging, and deep-water berths
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Supports EXIM operations with streamlined customs procedures
JNPT’s consistency in cargo handling places it far ahead of its competitors, making it a preferred gateway for global shipping lines.
The 2nd Largest Port in India: Kandla (Deendayal Port)
2. Deendayal Port, Gujarat – 2nd Largest Port in India
Formerly known as Kandla Port, Deendayal Port handles the highest cargo volume among all major ports, especially for crude oil, petroleum, grains, and fertilizers. Its strategic location near the Gulf of Kutch strengthens India’s petrochemical supply chain.
Key Highlights
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India’s top port in total cargo throughput
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Major export-import hub for grains, oil, and industrial raw materials
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Massive storage capacity across 3,000+ hectares
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Highly efficient for bulk and liquid cargo
Its advanced infrastructure and cargo capacity solidify its rank as the 2nd largest port in India.
Complete List of Major Ports in India
Below is the complete list of major ports in India, categorized region-wise. Each port plays a crucial role in the national export-import system and supports diverse categories of goods from petroleum to textiles to agricultural products.
West Coast Major Ports in India
3. Mumbai Port, Maharashtra
One of the oldest ports in India, it handles break bulk, liquid cargo, and cruise traffic. Its natural deep harbor and proximity to major business centers make it a vital trade point.
4. Mormugao Port, Goa
Known for iron ore exports, this port serves as an essential gateway for mining exports. Its deep draft accommodates large bulk carriers.
5. Mangalore Port (New Mangalore), Karnataka
Critical for petroleum, edible oil, and container cargo, Mangalore Port has rapidly expanded into a multi-commodity port with modern facilities.
6. Cochin Port, Kerala
One of the fastest-growing container ports, Cochin Port is a major maritime hub with the Vallarpadam International Container Transshipment Terminal.
East Coast Major Ports in India
7. Kolkata Port (Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port), West Bengal
Located along the Hooghly River, it is the only riverine major port and serves as the gateway to eastern India and neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan.
8. Haldia Port, West Bengal
An extension of the Kolkata port system, Haldia specializes in petrochemicals, chemicals, coal, and LPG cargo.
9. Paradip Port, Odisha
Strategically positioned to support mineral-rich eastern India, Paradip Port handles coal, iron ore, and crude oil imports.
10. Visakhapatnam Port, Andhra Pradesh
A highly diversified port handling crude oil, fertilizers, steel, and containers. Its natural harbor ensures year-round operations.
11. Chennai Port, Tamil Nadu
One of the oldest and busiest major ports in India, it is vital for automobile exports, container cargo, and industrial goods.
12. Ennore Port (Kamarajar Port), Tamil Nadu
India’s first corporate port, Ennore specializes in coal, automobiles, petroleum products, and LNG.
13. Tuticorin Port (V.O. Chidambaranar Port), Tamil Nadu
A rapidly growing port supporting agricultural exports, containerized cargo, and industrial commodities.
Why These Major Ports in India Matter to Businesses
Understanding the role of the major ports in India helps businesses refine their supply chain decisions, select cost-effective sea routes, and time shipments accurately. Importers and exporters also rely heavily on updated insights from an export data provider to track commodity flows, market trends, and competitive trade patterns.
Strategic Advantages
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Boost international trade connectivity
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Improve turnaround time for shipments
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Access to specialized terminals
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Better logistics integration with road, rail & ICDs
After Word
India’s maritime sector stands as a powerful driver of economic growth, supported by an expansive network of major and non-major ports. From JNPT the largest port in India to Deendayal Port the 2nd largest port in India each port contributes uniquely to trade efficiency, logistics optimization, and global supply chain integration.
Businesses leveraging maritime trade gain a competitive edge when equipped with precise market insights from credible platforms like Eximpedia.app, which provides detailed trade analytics and export-import data.
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