Smallest State in India in terms of Area and Population

India, a country renowned for its rich diversity in cultures, languages and terrains, showcases a captivating tapestry of geographical features. Within its vast array of states, Goa distinguishes itself as the smallest state of India in terms of area or size, yet it possesses profound historical, cultural and natural significance. Famed for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, enduring Portuguese influences and verdant scenery, Goa serves as a compelling testament to the notion that “small wonders can yield extraordinary experiences.” This article aims to unveil captivating insights about Goa, delving into the intricacies of India’s smallest state, considering both its land area and population.

How many States are there in India?

India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories. Each state has its own government and capital, while the Union Territories are governed by the Central Government. The states vary in size, population and culture, making India a diverse country. Some states are large like Rajasthan, while others, like Goa, are small.

Smallest State of India in Terms of Area

Goa is the smallest state in India by area, covering 3,702 square kilometers (1,429 square miles). It is located in the south-west corner of the country along the coast. Despite its small size, Goa is famous for its beautiful beaches, tourism and vibrant culture. It is a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Here is the list of the smallest states of India by area:

S. No.	State	Area (sq. km)
1.	Goa	3,702
2.	Sikkim	7,096
3.	Tripura	10,486
4.	Nagaland	16,579
5.	Mizoram	21,081
6.	Manipur	22,327
7.	Meghalaya	22,429
8.	Kerala	38,963
9.	Haryana	44,212
10.	Punjab	50,362
11.	Uttarakhand	53,483
12.	Himachal Pradesh	55,673
13.	Assam	78,438
14.	Jharkhand	79,714
15.	Arunachal Pradesh	83,743
16.	West Bengal	88,752
17.	Bihar	94,163
18.	Telangana	112,077
19.	Tamil Nadu	130,058
20.	Chhattisgarh	135,191
21.	Odisha	155,707
22.	Andhra Pradesh	162,968
23.	Karnataka	191,791
24.	Gujarat	196,024
25.	Uttar Pradesh	240,928
26.	Maharashtra	307,713
27.	Madhya Pradesh	308,245
28.	Rajasthan	342,239

Key Facts about the Smallest State in Terms of Area, Goa

Some of the interesting facts about the smallest state, Goa are as follows:

• Goa is India’s smallest state, covering just 3,702 sq. km.
• Its coastline stretches for 105 km along the Arabian Sea.
• Goa was a Portuguese colony for over 400 years, leading to a unique blend of Indian and European Cultures.
• The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier and showcases intricate Baroque architecture.
• Goa’s Carnival, a legacy of its Portuguese past, is a vibrant pre-Lenten festival celebrated with colorful processions and music.
• Goa is renowned for its palm-fringed beaches, including popular spots like Baga, Anjuma, and Palolem.
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls, located in the state, is one of India’s highest waterfalls and a popular tourist attraction.
• Goa is home to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, housing diverse wildlife including tigers and panthers.
• The state is known for its cashew plantations and the production of feni, a traditional liquor made from cashew apples.
• Sustainable tourism efforts are being promoted to preserve Goa’s natural beauty and cultural heritage amidst its popularity as a tourist destination.

India’s Smallest State in Terms of Population

Sikkim is the smallest state in India by population, with around 610,577 people. It is located in the northeast part of the country. Known for its beautiful mountain landscapes and peaceful environment, Sikkim attracts many tourists. Despite its small population, it is rich in culture and natural beauty.

Here is the list of India’s smallest states in terms of population:

S. No.	State	Population
1.	Sikkim	610,577
2.	Mizoram	1,097,206
3.	Arunachal Pradesh	1,458,545
4.	Goa	1,458,502
5.	Nagaland	1,978,502
6.	Manipur	2,855,794
7.	Meghalaya	2,966,889
8.	Tripura	3,673,917
9.	Himachal Pradesh	6,864,602
10.	Uttarakhand	10,086,292
11.	Chhattisgarh	25,351,462
12.	Haryana	25,545,198
13.	Punjab	27,743,338
14.	Assam	31,205,576
15.	Jharkhand	32,988,134
16.	Kerala	33,406,061
17.	Telangana	35,198,978
18.	Odisha	41,974,218
19.	Gujarat	60,439,692
20.	Karnataka	61,095,297
21.	Rajasthan	68,548,437
22.	Tamil Nadu	72,147,030
23.	Madhya Pradesh	72,626,809
24.	Andhra Pradesh	84,580,777
25.	West Bengal	91,276,115
26.	Bihar	104,099,452
27.	Maharashtra	112,372,333
28.	Uttar Pradesh	199,812,341

Key Facts Related to Smallest State By Population – Sikkim

Here are some interesting facts you must know about the smallest state of India in terms of population, Sikkim:

• Sikkim is the smallest Indian state by population, with 671,720 residents (January 2020).
• It is the second smallest state by area.
• The state has a hilly terrain with limited fertile land, contributing to its small population.
• Sikkim’s economy relies on agriculture and tourism.
• It has the third-smallest GDP among Indian states.
• Sikkim shares borders with China, Bhutan, Nepal, and West Bengal.
• Gangtok is the capital city.
• Khangchendzonga National Park, situated in Sikkim, covers nearly 35% of the state.