20 Smallest Countries in Asia and Where India Stands by Size

Asia is the largest continent on Earth, home to 48 nations with diverse cultures, landscapes, and economies. While many know about its biggest countries like Russia, China, and India, fewer are aware of the smallest ones. These compact nations and territories may cover very little ground, but they often make up for it with rich history, vibrant cultures, and global influence. Let’s explore the 20 smallest countries in Asia by land area and see where India stands on the list.

Asia’s Tiniest Nation

The smallest country in Asia is Macau, a special administrative region of China. Spread across just 33 square kilometres, Macau is a bustling hub with a population of over 7 lakh. Known for its casinos, heritage sites, and vibrant nightlife, it ranks as the 8th smallest country in the world.

Other Compact Gems of Asia

Maldives – Famous for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, the Maldives spans 300 square kilometres and is home to over 5 lakh people.

Singapore – With just 710 square kilometres of land, Singapore is a global financial powerhouse and one of the most developed countries in the region.

Bahrain – This island nation covers 765 square kilometres, blending modern architecture with rich history.

Hong Kong – Spread over 1,100 square kilometres, this vibrant city is known for its skyscrapers, bustling harbour, and cultural fusion.

Full List of the 20 Smallest Countries in Asia

Rank Country Area (km²) Population

1	Macau	33	722,007
2	Maldives	300	529,676
3	Singapore	710	5,870,750
4	Bahrain	765	1,643,330
5	Hong Kong	1,100	7,396,080
6	Brunei	5,800	466,330
7	Palestine	6,200	5,589,620
8	Lebanon	10,500	5,849,420
9	Qatar	11,600	3,115,890
10	Timor-Leste	14,900	1,418,520
11	Kuwait	17,800	5,026,080
12	Israel	20,800	9,517,180
13	Armenia	29,700	2,952,360
14	Taiwan	36,200	23,112,800
15	Bhutan	38,400	796,682
16	Sri Lanka	65,600	23,229,500
17	Georgia	69,700	3,806,670
18	United Arab Emirates	83,600	11,346,000
19	Azerbaijan	86,600	10,397,700
20	Jordan	89,300	11,520,700
—	South Korea	100,200	51,667,000

India’s Position on the Map

India does not feature among Asia’s smallest nations—in fact, it is the third-largest country on the continent, following Russia and China. With a vast land area of 3.3 million square kilometres and a population exceeding 1.46 billion, it is a geographical and demographic giant.

Why These Countries Are Small

The size of these nations is shaped by multiple factors such as geography, political history, and natural resources. The Maldives, for instance, is a low-lying island chain shaped by coral reefs and dependent on tourism. Singapore and Bahrain, though small in size, are economic powerhouses, leveraging their strategic locations and modern infrastructure.