The ten largest states in India by area, along with a brief summary for each:
1. Rajasthan (342,239 km²)
Known as the "Land of Kings," Rajasthan is famous for its majestic palaces, historic forts, and vibrant culture. It's home to the Thar Desert and shares a border with Pakistan.
2. Madhya Pradesh (308,252 km²)
Located in central India, Madhya Pradesh is often called the "Heart of India." It's known for its wildlife sanctuaries, ancient temples, and the historic city of Khajuraho.
3. Maharashtra (307,713 km²)
Home to Mumbai, India's financial capital, Maharashtra is a diverse state with a rich cultural heritage, bustling metropolises, and beautiful beaches along the Arabian Sea.
4. Uttar Pradesh (240,928 km²)
India's most populous state, Uttar Pradesh is known for its historical significance, including the Taj Mahal in Agra and the holy city of Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges.
5. Gujarat (196,024 km²)
Birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, Gujarat is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit, diverse landscapes, and the world's largest statue, the Statue of Unity.
6. Karnataka (191,791 km²)
Home to India's Silicon Valley, Bangalore, Karnataka boasts a mix of modern technology hubs, ancient temple complexes, and lush Western Ghats.
7. Andhra Pradesh (162,975 km²)
Known for its long coastline along the Bay of Bengal, Andhra Pradesh is famous for its temples, delicious cuisine, and the tech hub of Visakhapatnam.
8. Odisha (155,707 km²)
Formerly known as Orissa, this eastern state is celebrated for its ancient temples, including the Sun Temple at Konark, and its rich tribal culture.
9. Chhattisgarh (135,192 km²)
A relatively new state, Chhattisgarh is known for its abundant natural resources, dense forests, and waterfalls, as well as its significant tribal population.
10. Tamil Nadu (130,058 km²)
With a history dating back to ancient times, Tamil Nadu is famous for its Dravidian-style temples, classical music and dance, and the cultural capital of Chennai.