Which is the Smallest District in India?

Last Updated: Jan 12, 2026, 14:03 IST

India has nearly 800 administrative districts, varying widely in size and geography. Among them, one stands out for its exceptionally small area, coastal setting, colonial legacy, and administrative significance, proving that importance is not always defined by land size. So, do you know which is the smallest district in India? Explore this article to know about the smallest district of India.

Which is the Smallest District in India?
Which is the Smallest District in India?

In India, there is a vast culture and a diverse regional range based on ethical, cultural, and social interaction rather than on ease or prosperity, but what about the area-wise location of the districts of India? 

In India, there are around 780-800 districts, which are also called “Zila”.

It is a primary administrative unit within an Indian state or Union Territory, which is headed by the District Magistrate/Collector, who is responsible for implementing government policies, law & order, and revenue management.

Everyone is familiar with the“Kutch”, which is the largest district in India, and you will be surprised to know that the top 3 largest districts of India are located in Rajasthan only

But, do you often know which is the Smallest District in India?

In which state is this the smallest district?

So, let’s explore this article in detail and come to know about the Smallest District in India.

Also Read: Which is the Largest District in India? Know the Location, and Size

Which is the Smallest District in India?

The Smallest District in India is Mahe, also known locally as “Mayyazhi”.

Mahe is one of the four districts of the Union Territory of Puducherry, which stands out from the others due to its tiny area and unique geographical location.

Smallest District in India-2

Source: mahe.gov

Where is the Mahe District located?

Mahe District is located at the mouth of the Mahe (Mayyazhi) River, where it meets the Arabian Sea.

Mahe district is also titled as “Eyebrow of the Arabian Sea”

It is bordered by:

  • Three sides of Kannur district

  • One side by Kozhikode district

This strategic coastal position has historically made Mahe an important trade and cultural point.

Smallest District in India-1

Source: mahe.gov

What is the historical background of Mahe?

Mahe was once part of French India, and its colonial past is still visible in its local architecture, street layout and in its cultural traditions.

After 1947, when India gained independence, the Mahe district became an integral part of the Union Territory of Puducherry.

Today, Mahe is functioning as:

  • As a municipality

  • As a full-fledged district

  • As a legislative constituency with one representative in the Puducherry Legislative Assembly

District Mahe – Overview

Category

Particulars

Details

General Information

Area

9 sq. km

Geographical Area

868.76 hectare

Latitude

11°42′ to 11°43′ North

Longitude

75°31′ to 75°33′ East

Temperature

19°C to 36°C

Average Rainfall

3000 mm

Rainy Season

June–August (South-West Monsoon)September (North-East Monsoon)

Administrative Units

Tehsils

1 (Mahe)

Blocks

1 (Mahe)

Villages

5

Population (Census 2011)

Male Population

19,269

Female Population

22,665

Total Population

41,934

Sex Ratio

1176

Literates

36,730

Literacy Rate

98.35%

Agriculture

Major Crops

Coconut, Banana, Tapioca, Arecanut, Pepper, Jackfruit, Mango

Cropping System

Tier & Mixed

Data Source:mahe.gov.inSmallest District in India

Conclusion

Mahe is the Smallest District in India, which is known locally as “Mayyazhi”. Its administrative importance is not measured by land area alone, but also, Mahe carries a rich historical legacy, strategic coastal value, and cultural depth that far outweigh its size.

In India, Mahe stand as a reminder that even the smallest region can hold great significance in politically, economically, and historically.


Prabhat Mishra
Prabhat Mishra

Executive - Editorial

    Prabhat Mishra is a Subject Matter Expert and digital journalist with an extensive background in the competitive exam landscape and over 4 years of experience in education, national and international news, and current affairs. Over his tenure with top knowledge platforms like Mentorship India, IAS BABA, IAS SARTHI, and now Jagran Josh, he has a deep understanding of government exams like UPSC and State PCS, including UP and Bihar, as he has already qualified for the UPPCS 2022 Mains and Bihar 68th Mains. With his core expertise in history, polity, geography & current affairs, he specialises in creating well-researched, aspirant-centric content and simplifying complex topics for competitive examinations.

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    First Published: Jan 12, 2026, 12:44 IST

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