India, a vast and diverse country, boasts 28 states and 8 Union territories, each unique in its own right. Rajasthan, the largest state by area, spans approximately 342,239 square kilometers in the northwestern region. In contrast, Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state, houses over 200 million people. Both states are significant in terms of their geographic and demographic attributes, contributing uniquely to India’s identity.
Largest State of India in terms of Area and Population
Rajasthan stands as largest state in India, covering an expansive 342,239 square kilometers and holding the eighth position in terms of population. Dominated by a predominately arid climate, the region encompasses the extensive Thar Desert, the country’s largest arid expanse. Despite its arid nature, Rajasthan showcases diverse landscapes, ranging from mountainous terrain to verdant pockets of forests. This varied topography creates a habitat that supports a rich array of wildlife, including tigers, lions, leopards and elephants.
Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India with over 200 million residents, is located in the northern part of the country. Known for its diverse cultural and linguistic landscape, it is a significant hub of heritage and tradition. The state capital, Lucknow, stands out for its historical significance and architectural marvels, reflecting the rich cultural fabric of Uttar Pradesh.
Largest State in India By Area
Rajasthan state of India stands as the largest Indian state in terms of area with an area of 342,239 square kilometers, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh.
Here is the list of largest states of India in terms of area till 2nd August 2024:
S. No. | State | Area (sq. km) |
1. | Rajasthan | 342,239 |
2. | Madhya Pradesh | 308,245 |
3. | Maharashtra | 307,713 |
4. | Uttar Pradesh | 240,928 |
5. | Gujarat | 196,024 |
6. | Karnataka | 191,791 |
7. | Andhra Pradesh | 162,968 |
8. | Odisha | 155,707 |
9. | Chhattisgarh | 135,191 |
10. | Tamil Nadu | 130,058 |
11. | Telangana | 112,077 |
12. | Bihar | 94,163 |
13. | West Bengal | 88,752 |
14. | Arunachal Pradesh | 83,743 |
15. | Jharkhand | 79,714 |
16. | Assam | 78,438 |
17. | Himachal Pradesh | 55,673 |
18. | Uttarakhand | 53,483 |
19. | Punjab | 50,362 |
20. | Haryana | 44,212 |
21. | Kerala | 38,963 |
22. | Meghalaya | 22,429 |
23. | Manipur | 22,327 |
24. | Mizoram | 21,081 |
25. | Nagaland | 16,579 |
26. | Tripura | 10,486 |
27. | Sikkim | 7,096 |
28. | Goa | 3,702 |
Rajasthan, Largest State in India
Some of the main points related to India’s largest state, Rajasthan are as follows:
- Rajasthan is the largest state in terms of area, covering over 342,239 sq.km area.
- It is located in the northwestern part of India.
- Rajasthan shares its borders with five other Indian states and Pakistan.
- The state is known for its diverse topography, ranging from the Thar Desert to fertile plains.
- Rajasthan is home to numerous beautiful lakes, including Lake Pichola and Sambhar Salt Lake.
- The capital of Rajasthan is Jaipur, also known as the “Pink City.”
- Rajasthan has a rich historical heritage with numerous forts and palaces, like the iconic Amber Fort and City Palace.
- The Pushkar Camel Fair is a popular annual event in Rajasthan that attracts tourists from around the world.
- Rajasthan is a hub of cultural vibrancy, with vibrant folk music and dance forms like Ghoomar and Kalbelia.
- The state has a rich handicraft tradition, producing intricate textiles, pottery and jewellery.
Largest State in India by Population
Uttar Pradesh state of India stands as the largest Indian state in terms of population, with the population of 199,812,341, followed by Maharashtra, Bihar and West Bengal
Here is the list of largest states of India in terms of population:
S. No. | State | Population |
1. | Uttar Pradesh | 199,812,341 |
2. | Maharashtra | 112,372,333 |
3. | Bihar | 104,099,452 |
4. | West Bengal | 91,276,115 |
5. | Andhra Pradesh | 84,580,777 |
6. | Madhya Pradesh | 72,626,809 |
7. | Tamil Nadu | 72,147,030 |
8. | Rajasthan | 68,548,437 |
9. | Karnataka | 61,095,297 |
10. | Gujarat | 60,439,692 |
11. | Odisha | 41,974,218 |
12. | Telangana | 35,198,978 |
13. | Kerala | 33,406,061 |
14. | Jharkhand | 32,988,134 |
15. | Assam | 31,205,576 |
16. | Punjab | 27,743,338 |
17. | Haryana | 25,545,198 |
18. | Chhattisgarh | 25,351,462 |
19. | Uttarakhand | 10,086,292 |
20. | Himachal Pradesh | 6,864,602 |
21. | Tripura | 3,673,917 |
22. | Meghalaya | 2,966,889 |
23. | Manipur | 2,855,794 |
24. | Nagaland | 1,978,502 |
25. | Goa | 1,458,502 |
26. | Arunachal Pradesh | 1,458,545 |
27. | Mizoram | 1,097,206 |
28. | Sikkim | 610,577 |
Largest State in terms of Population: Uttar Pradesh
Some of the key points related to largest state of India in terms of population which is Uttar Pradesh are as follows:
- Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in India, with over 200 million people.
- It is located in the northern part of India and has a diverse cultural and linguistic landscape.
- The state capital of Uttar Pradesh is Lucknow, known for its historical significance and architectural heritage.
- Agra, another major city in the state, is home to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
- The state has a rich historical heritage, with landmarks like the Red Fort in Agra and the Bara Imambara in Lucknow.
- Uttar Pradesh is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as Dudhwa National Park and Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Uttar Pradesh is a place of pilgrimage for people of various faiths including Hindus, Buddhists and Jains due to its numerous temples, shrines and historical sites.
Largest State in India – Map
The largest state in India, geographically spanning diverse landscapes and cultures, is Rajasthan. Known for its expansive deserts, historic forts, and vibrant traditions, Rajasthan is a tapestry of history and natural beauty. From the iconic Thar Desert to majestic palaces, this state captures the essence of India’s rich heritage, making it a compelling destination for travelers and history enthusiasts alike.