Several countries have multiple capitals serving distinct roles, such as South Africa’s Pretoria, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein, or Bolivia’s La Paz and Sucre. This arrangement balances power and reflects historical, political, and cultural factors, offering diverse travel experiences
The concept of a capital city is usually straightforward: it is the heart of a nation, hosting its government, culture and administration. However, some countries do not follow this single-capital model and instead have two or even three capitals. For travellers, this presents a unique opportunity to experience multiple sides of a country in one journey. Each capital often has its own character, from historic streets and colonial architecture to bustling markets and modern business hubs. Visiting multiple capitals can provide insight into a nation's history, politics, and geography while offering a more diverse travel experience. Whether it is strolling through cultural landmarks, enjoying local cuisine, or exploring contrasting cityscapes, these destinations allow travellers to see how different capitals shape a country's identity. Here is a guide to eight countries with more than one capital, highlighting what makes each city worth visiting and how travellers can make the most of their trip.
Also Read: Visiting Ireland For The First Time? 7 Experiences You Cannot Miss
8 Countries With Multiple Capitals That Offer Unique Travel Experiences:
1. South Africa
South Africa. (Photo: Unsplash)
South Africa is the most famous example, with three capitals. Pretoria is the administrative capital, Cape Town is the legislative capital, and Bloemfontein is the judicial capital. This division was established to balance power and prevent centralisation in one city. For travellers, it is triple the opportunity to explore the country. Pretoria offers historical monuments, Cape Town features the iconic Table Mountain, and Bloemfontein presents cultural museums.
How To Apply For A South Africa Visa
Indian citizens require a visa to visit South Africa and are not eligible for a visa on arrival. Applications for a visitor visa should be made in advance through the nearest South African Visa Application Centre (VFS Global), or via the official VFS Global website. Tourist visas typically allow stays of up to 90 days.
Best Time To Visit South Africa
The best time to visit South Africa is from September to November. This period offers excellent wildlife viewing, wildflower season in the Western Cape, and fewer crowds before the peak season.
2. Bolivia
Bolivia. (Photo: Unsplash)
Bolivia has two capitals, La Paz and Sucre. Sucre is the constitutional capital and home to the judiciary, while La Paz serves as the seat of government and executive power. This arrangement dates back to political conflicts in the 19th century. Visitors will find Sucre charming with its colonial architecture and calm atmosphere, while La Paz offers a bustling urban energy high in the Andes. Together, they showcase Bolivia's contrasting landscapes and rich identity.
Bolivia Visa For Indians | How To Apply For Bolivia Visa
Indian nationals holding a Diplomatic or Official Passport are exempt from requiring a visa to enter Bolivia for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It is essential to carry all necessary identification documents and ensure that passports have at least six months' validity.
Best Time To Visit Bolivia
The dry season from May to October is the ideal time to visit Bolivia, offering clear skies, sunny days, and optimal conditions for hiking, trekking, and exploring the Uyuni Salt Flats.
3. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka (Photo: Unsplash)
Sri Lanka has two capitals: Colombo and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. Colombo serves as the commercial capital with business hubs, embassies, and financial centres, while Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte houses the parliament and government offices. The cities are only 15 kilometres apart, making the dual-capital system practical. Visitors can experience Colombo's lively markets, coastal charm, and modern skyline, and just a short drive away, explore Kotte's quieter, administrative atmosphere.
Sri Lanka Visa For Indians | How To Get A Visa For Sri Lanka
Indian passport holders can apply for an E-visa, also known as an ETA. Upon arrival, applicants may receive a 30-day ETA with a double-entry facility.
Best Time To Visit Sri Lanka
December to March is ideal for the south and west coasts and the Hill Country, while April to September suits the north and east coasts. The island experiences different monsoon seasons in various regions, allowing it to be a year-round destination.
4. Eswatini (Swaziland)
Eswatini (Photo: Unsplash)
Eswatini has two capitals: Mbabane and Lobamba. Mbabane is the administrative hub with government offices and embassies, while Lobamba serves as the traditional and legislative capital, hosting the parliament and the king's royal residence. This arrangement demonstrates the balance between modern governance and traditional monarchy. Visitors can explore Mbabane's lively markets and Lobamba's cultural sites, including the National Museum and Royal Kraal, which highlight Eswatini's heritage.
Visa For Eswatini (Swaziland) | How To Get Eswatini Visa
Indian citizens holding a valid Diplomatic or Official Passport can enter, exit, or transit through Eswatini without a visa and can stay for 90 days within any 180-day period.
Best Time To Visit Eswatini
The dry winter months of May to September are optimal for wildlife viewing, as the vegetation thins and animals gather near water sources.
5. Malaysia
Malaysia. (Photo: Unsplash)
Malaysia has two capitals with distinct roles. Kuala Lumpur is the official national capital and financial hub, while Putrajaya, a planned city built in the 1990s, serves as the administrative capital. Putrajaya was designed to ease congestion in Kuala Lumpur and is noted for its futuristic architecture and landscaped gardens. Tourists visit Kuala Lumpur for its iconic Petronas Towers and vibrant culture, while Putrajaya offers insight into modern city planning.
Malaysia Visa For Indians | How To Apply For Malaysia Visa
Indian passport holders do not require a visa to visit Malaysia. Visa-free entry allows stays of up to 30 days per visit. Travellers must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) prior to entry.
Best Time To Visit Malaysia
March to early October is generally the best period, with the dry season (March to May and late October to November) ideal for visiting the west coast.
6. Netherlands
Amsterdam. (Photo: Unsplash)
Amsterdam is the official capital of the Netherlands, while The Hague serves as the seat of government, hosting the parliament, ministries, the king's residence, and many international organisations, including the International Court of Justice. Amsterdam remains the cultural and financial hub, attracting millions of tourists with its canals, museums, and nightlife. The two cities' coexistence reflects the Netherlands' distinctive approach to separating cultural and political centres.
Netherlands Visa For Indians | How To Apply For Netherlands Visa
Indians require a Schengen visa to visit the Netherlands. Applications are submitted via VFS Global.
Best Time To Visit The Netherlands
April to October offers pleasant weather and outdoor activities, with April to May and September to October ideal for fewer crowds and tulip viewing.
7. Tanzania
Tanzania. (Photo: Unsplash)
Tanzania moved its capital from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma in the 1970s, but both cities remain important. Dar es Salaam continues as the economic hub with a busy port, while Dodoma hosts the Parliament and the president's office. Visitors can enjoy the coastal life of Dar and the inland heritage of Dodoma, experiencing two very different sides of the country in one trip.
Tanzania Visa For Indians | How To Apply For Tanzania Visa
Indian travellers must complete an e-visa application on the official Tanzania Immigration website, with processing typically taking five to seven days.
Best Time To Visit Tanzania
The dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, including the Great Migration, and for enjoying clear weather.
8. Czech Republic
Photo: Unsplash
Prague is the cultural and political capital of the Czech Republic, while Brno functions as the judicial capital, hosting the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court. Brno is therefore more than a student city; it carries institutional significance. Visitors often flock to Prague's castles and bridges, while Brno offers quirky cafes, vibrant nightlife, and fewer crowds, providing a refreshing contrast to Prague's tourist-heavy streets.
Czech Republic Visa For Indians | How To Apply For Czech Republic Visa
A Schengen visa is required for Indian travellers visiting the Czech Republic. Applications are submitted via VFS Global.
Best Time To Visit The Czech Republic
April to May and September to October offer pleasant temperatures, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
Also Read: 8 Countries Where Indian Food Is Surprisingly Easy To Find Abroad
Why Do Some Countries Have More Than One Capital?
Having multiple capitals usually reflects deeper historical and political reasons:
Colonial History: One city may have served as the colonial capital, while another became prominent after independence, signalling changes in national priorities.
Balancing Power: Distributing administrative functions prevents excessive centralisation, ensuring balanced governance across regions.
Geography: Capitals in different locations provide better accessibility for citizens, especially in countries with vast distances or geographical barriers.
Cultural Identity: Secondary capitals often maintain cultural or judicial significance, preserving historical or symbolic importance.
Did you know that these countries had more than two capitals? Let us know in the comments below.
