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Our planet Earth is vast and is an estimated 130,094,010 square kilometres in the world, further divided into 196 countries. Out of all these countries, Russia holds the largest landmass with 9,985,000 square kilometres, followed by Canada, the United States, China, Brazil, etc. Do you want to know which are the top 15 largest countries in the world by area? Let us dive right into the details.
Table of Contents
| Area in sq km | Country | Continent |
| 17,098,242 | Russia | Northern Asia and Eastern Europe |
| 9,984,670 | Canada | North America |
| 9,596,960 | China | Eastern Asia |
| 9,525,067 | United States | North America |
| 8,510,346 | Brazil | South America |
| 7,741,220 | Australia | Australia |
| 3,287,263 | India | South Central Asia |
| 2,780,400 | Argentina | South America |
| 2,724,910 | Kazakhstan | South Central Asia |
| 2,381,741 | Algeria | North Africa |
1. Russia
Russia takes the crown as the world’s largest country spread across two continents – Asia and Europe and in terms of size covering an expansive area of 17,098,246 square kilometres, which represents 13% of the planet Earth’s surface.
- It stretches nearly halfway around the world from its eastern border with Japan to mainland Europe.
- Within its borders, there can be as much as a ten-hour time difference.
- Almost 40% of the world’s natural resources are located in Russia, positioning it as a country rich in natural resources.
- It continues to be a leading and influential country globally, with the highest reserves of natural gas, coal, iron ore, asbestos, zinc, and various other minerals.
According to 2023 figures, Russia spans the largest territory on Earth, covering an area of 17.2 million square kilometres. However, when it comes to the number by population, Russia holds the position of ninth in the world, with a population slightly behind that of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Brazil, Indonesia, India, China, and the United States. In the ranking of the global population, Japan is in the eleventh spot, right after Mexico and almost at the same level as Russia.
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2. Canada
After Russia, Canada comes 2nd, when it comes to being the largest nation in the world.
- Its shoreline stretches over 243,000 kilometres, the planet’s longest coastline.
- In Canada, the activity of forest bathing is gaining more popularity, and in specific areas, medical professionals are suggesting it to individuals as a method to alleviate stress and improve their health.
Canada is packed with massive natural beauty, huge forests, mountains and plains. Big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal add a multicultural mix with awesome arts and a comfortable lifestyle. Canada also has a strong economy, cares for the environment and plays a big role in world affairs.
3. China
Being the most densely populated nation globally, China is also the biggest in land size.
- Covering an area of 9.6 million square kilometres, China ranks fourth in size among countries.
- The Shinkansen, which stretches 1,318 kilometres, covers the distance from Shanghai to Beijing in about four and a half hours.
- China also has the largest desert regions globally, like the Gobi and Taklamakan Deserts.
China has landscapes ranging from the Himalayas in the southwest to the productive flatlands of the east. It also shares a deep cultural history spanning millennia, with iconic sites such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City and Terracotta Army highlighting its past. In modern times, China stands as a dominant force in the world economy and a leader in areas like technology, production, and commerce.
4. United States
In the fourth rank, we have the United States of America, spanning an area of 9,525,067 square kilometres. which is about 26 times greater than the land areas of some other nations.
- It is a major agri-food country, with some of the world’s top agricultural crop and livestock produce outputs, with nearly half of its land area allocated to agriculture.
- This vast landscape allows for the production of a variety of agricultural products, such as dairy products like milk and cheese, citrus fruits like oranges and apples, vegetables like tomatoes, as well as crops such as soybeans, wheat, and corn.
Ranging from the lively metropolises of New York and Los Angeles to the expansive prairies of the Midwest and the harsh yet stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains. It also is a cultural hub, welcoming individuals from every part of the world.
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5. Brazil
Brazil comes next and fifth in being the largest country in the world by area. It is also the largest in both Central and South America with 8,510,346 square kilometers.
Brazil is also the top producer of coffee globally. Every year, approximately 3 million tons of coffee are grown on farms covering a space of about 27,000 square kilometres, representing 30% of the global output. Brazil is known for its Amazonian rainforest, lively urban areas and deep cultural roots, with the distinction of being among the most biodiverse nations worldwide.
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6. Australia
On the sixth rank is Australia. Covering a total area of 7,692,024 square kilometres, the country features a wide variety of climate types, each possessing unique features.
- This encompasses desert environments in the centre, tropical and rainforest conditions in the north, moderate temperatures in the south, and subtropical climates along the coast.
- Australia holds the title of being the biggest nation in Oceania.
Famous for its breathtaking scenery, the Great Barrier Reef, and its treacherous shorelines. The country’s distinct fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus, has become an integral part of its national image. Australia’s lively metropolises such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, are celebrated for their diverse cultures and love for outdoor activities.
7. India
India ranks seventh in being the largest country in the world, spanning 3,287,263 square kilometres.
- Despite being just a third the size of China, India is on track to have a larger population, overtaking China and securing the title of the most populous country globally.
- Fifty per cent of India’s workforce is engaged in the agricultural sector, positioning the country as a dominant force in farming.
- Agricultural land makes up approximately 42% of the nation’s total area, with staples such as rice, wheat, and corn accounting for about 60% of this land used for farming.
The country of India is one of the planet’s most culturally rich countries. The ancient societies of India have constructed monuments and buildings such as the Taj Mahal and old temples. In the modern era, India is progressing rapidly in terms of its economy and is a leading force in the fields of technology, farming, and manufacturing.
8. Argentina
Argentina ranks eighth in the world being the largest country by area. With a total land area of 2,780,400 square kilometres, the country stretches from north to south.
- Known for its extensive grasslands known as the “pampas,” it has cultivated the cowherd and farming sectors.
- Argentina is among the leading nations in the global production of animals and agricultural goods, utilizing roughly 27% of its territory for pastures and grazing and nearly 39% for agricultural purposes.
The capital, Buenos Aires, is famous for its architecture influenced by Europe, its passionate tango music and its tasty food. The country is also well-known for its beef industry and areas dedicated to wine production.
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9. Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is roughly situated at the geographical heart of Eurasia and ranks ninth among countries. The bulk of its 2,724,910 square kilometres consists of deserts and grasslands that once were agricultural areas for nomadic communities. On the other hand, Kazakhstan is endowed with vast reserves of natural gas and oil, in addition to various types of energy and minerals.
10. Algeria
Algeria is located in the northern part of Africa and holds the 10th position. Spanning 2,381,741 square kilometres, it is Africa’s largest area.
- The vast Sahara Desert occupies more than 80 per cent of the country, yet it is also home to areas and stretches of coastline that are 1,200 kilometres long.
- In recent years, the Algerian authorities have been actively promoting tourism and seven sites have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Algeria has varied terrains, such as the Sahara Desert, Atlas Mountains, and the Mediterranean Sea shore. Its history is deep and complex, influenced by a range of civilizations, from the earliest Berber groups to Roman invasions and Arab impacts.
FAQs
The Vatican City holds the title of being the tiniest nation globally. This sovereign state, encircled by Italy, is even smaller than the Tokyo Disneyland theme park.
The country of India ranks as the seventh-biggest nation globally, and it holds the position of the second-largest in Asia. It is a landmass, bordered by the Indian Ocean on three sides.
India covers about 3,287,263 square kilometers, whereas the United States spans about 9,833,517 square kilometers, which means the United States is nearly twice the size of India.
Russia holds the title of being the biggest nation in Asia and globally, with its European section excluded. Meanwhile, the Maldives is recognized as the tiniest nation in Asia.
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