India is a land of diverse landscapes, and its administrative divisions reflect this geographical variety. The country is divided into districts, each with its own unique characteristics and significance. Here, we delve into the largest districts in India, measured by land area, to discover the vast expanses that contribute to the nation’s diversity.
The term “Indian districts” refers to the administrative units that intricately divide the states and union territories of India. Serving as essential components, these districts play a pivotal role in decentralized governance and focused development. They serve as a crucial link between state authorities and the grassroots, ensuring the effective implementation of policies and programs. At the helm of each district is a District Collector, or District Magistrate, acting as the principal executive officer overseeing comprehensive administration.
By 2025, India has around 800 districts. The latest count shows 787 districts across the country. Some major states include Uttar Pradesh with 75 districts, Rajasthan with 50 and Tamil Nadu with 38. These numbers may change as new districts are sometimes created for better administration.
As of 2025, Kutch is the largest district in India by area. It is located in Gujarat and covers 45,652 square kilometers. Kutch has 10 Talukas, 939 villages and 6 municipalities. It is home to the Kutchi people and rich wildlife. The Indian onager lives here in the Rann of Kutch, Banni grasslands and the seasonal wetlands of the Great and Little Rann, making it important for both people and nature.
Kachchh district of Gujarat, with the area of 45674 square kilometers, is the biggest district in India, followed by Leh (Jammu and Kashmir), Jaisalmer (Rajasthan), and Bikaner (Rajasthan).
Here is the list of top-10 largest districts in India:
LARGEST DISTRICTS IN INDIA | |||
Rank | District | State | Area (in sq. km) |
1. | Kachchh | Gujarat | 45674 |
2. | Leh | Jammu and Kashmir | 45110 |
3. | Jaisalmer | Rajasthan | 38401 |
4. | Bikaner | Rajasthan | 30239 |
5. | Barmer | Rajasthan | 28387 |
6. | Jodhpur | Rajasthan | 22850 |
7. | Anantapur | Andhra Pradesh | 19130 |
8. | Mahbubnagar | Andhra Pradesh | 18432 |
9. | Nagaur | Rajasthan | 17718 |
10. | Kurnool | Andhra Pradesh | 17658 |
State: Gujarat
Area: 45674 square kilometers
Kutch district in Gujarat holds the title of India’s largest district, spanning 45,674 square kilometers. Renowned for the expansive salt deserts of the Rann of Kutch, it hosts the annual Rann Utsav, a vibrant celebration spotlighting the district’s natural splendor and rich culture. The administrative hub is the town of Bhuj.
State: Jammu and Kashmir
Area: 45110 square kilometers
Ladakh’s Leh district claims the position of India’s second-largest district, sprawling over 45,110 square kilometers. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Leh harbors popular tourist spots and trekking destinations. The district is renowned for the expansive Hemis National Park, the largest in India, and is predominantly inhabited by a Buddhist population communicating in the Bauti (Ladakhi) language.
State: Rajasthan
Area: 38401 square kilometers
Situated in the expansive Thar desert, Jaisalmer claims the title of India’s third-largest district, covering 38,401 square kilometers. With a sparse population and a border adjacent to Pakistan, Jaisalmer holds the distinction of being the largest district in Rajasthan. The district’s headquarters, Jaisalmer city, renowned for the UNESCO world heritage site Jaisalmer Fort, is a popular destination in Rajasthan.
Kachchh district of Gujarat, with the area of 45674 square kilometers, is the biggest district in India.
Thane district of Maharashtra is the most populated district of India.
Mahé, Puducherry, with an area of 8.69 km2, is the smallest district of India.
Ladakh's Leh district claims the position of India's second-largest district, sprawling over 45,110 square kilometers.
The top-5 largest districts in India are: Kachchh, Leh, Jaisalmer, Bikaner and Barmer.
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