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Largest countries in the world by area: The world is home to an array of vast countries, each covering extensive territories and showcasing a rich tapestry of natural wonders, climates, and ecosystems.
These countries, ranked by their total land area, represent some of the most geographically diverse and influential nations on the planet.
The vast territories, natural resources, and strategic locations have shaped the course of global history and continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the world’s political, economic, and environmental landscapes.
Our country, India, is the world’s seventh-largest country by area and the most populous democracy. It is a diverse, multilingual, multi-ethnic nation with a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years.
Shaping the global socioeconomic landscape, here are the top 10 largest countries in the world by area.
| Rank | Country | Area (in sq km) | Region |
| 1 | Russia | 17,098,242 | Northern Asia and Eastern Europe |
| 2 | Canada | 9,984,670 | North America |
| 3 | China | 9,596,960 | Eastern Asia |
| 4 | United States of America | 9,525,067 | North America |
| 5 | Brazil | 8,510,346 | South America |
| 6 | Australia | 7,741,220 | Australia |
| 7 | India | 3,287,263 | South Central Asia |
| 8 | Argentina | 2,780,400 | South America |
| 9 | Kazakhstan | 2,724,910 | South Central Asia |
| 10 | Algeria | 2,381,741 | North Africa |
Source: Forbes
Russia is the largest country in the world, spanning Eastern Europe and northern Asia. Its capital is Moscow, one of the largest cities in Europe. Russia’s currency is the Russian ruble (RUB). Culturally, Russia has a rich heritage of literature, arts, and architecture, with iconic landmarks such as the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow and the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg. Russia’s geopolitical influence is significant, as it is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and plays a crucial role in global diplomacy, particularly in Eurasia and Eastern Europe.
Canada is the second-largest country. Its currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Economically, Canada is resource-rich, with significant reserves of oil, natural gas, minerals like nickel and uranium, and abundant freshwater resources. Culturally, Canada celebrates its multiculturalism, with influences from Indigenous peoples, French and British colonial history, and immigration from around the world shaping its diverse society.
China is the third-largest country and the most populous.Its currency is the Renminbi (RMB). China is known for its vast and diverse landscapes, including the Tibetan Plateau, the Gobi Desert, the fertile plains of the Yangtze and Yellow River valleys, and mountain ranges like the Himalayas. Economically, China is the world’s second-largest economy by nominal GDP and the largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). Culturally, China has a rich history spanning over 5,000 years.
The United States is the fourth-largest country, featuring diverse geography from the temperate forests of the East Coast to the arid deserts of the Southwest and the temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Its currency is the United States dollar (USD). This diversity is reflected in its arts, music, literature, cuisine, and festivals. Major cities like New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago are global centres of finance, entertainment, and culture, each with its distinct character and influence.
Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth-largest in the world. Its currency is the Brazilian real (BRL). It is renowned for its vast and diverse landscapes, which include the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Culturally, Brazil is known for its vibrant and diverse society, influenced by Indigenous, African, Portuguese, and other European cultures. This cultural fusion is evident in Brazilian music, dance, cuisine, and festivals.
Australia is the sixth-largest country and the only country that is also a continent. Its currency is the Australian dollar (AUD). Australia is known for its unique and diverse geography. Culturally, Australia is characterised by its multicultural society, shaped by Indigenous Australian cultures, British colonisation, and subsequent waves of immigration from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. This cultural diversity is reflected in the arts, cuisine, festivals, and sports (particularly cricket, rugby, and Australian Rules football).
India is the seventh-largest country in the world and the most populated country in the world. Its currency is the Indian rupee (INR) and is known for its diverse geography, encompassing the majestic Himalayan mountains in the north, fertile plains along the Ganges River, tropical rainforests in the Western Ghats, and coastal areas along the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. Culturally, India is renowned for its rich heritage and diversity, with a history spanning thousands of years. It is the birthplace of several major religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
Argentina, the eighth-largest country, is located in South America and stretches from the subtropical north to the subantarctic south. Its currency is the Argentine peso (ARS). This cultural blend is evident in Argentine literature, art, architecture, music (including tango), and cuisine. Buenos Aires, the capital city, is a vibrant cultural hub known for its European-style architecture, theatres, museums, and lively nightlife.
Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world and the ninth-largest overall. Located in Central Asia, it features diverse landscapes, including vast steppes, deserts, and mountains. Its currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). The country is rich in natural resources, particularly oil, gas, and minerals, which are central to its economy. Culturally, Kazakhstan is home to a diverse population, with a blend of Kazakh, The Kazakh people have a rich nomadic heritage, reflected in traditions such as horsemanship, yurt-dwelling, and traditional music.
Algeria is the largest country in Africa and the tenth-largest in the world. Its currency is the Algerian dinar (DZD). It is dominated by the Sahara Desert, which covers more than four-fifths of its territory. Culturally, Algeria has a rich history influenced by Berber, Arab, and French colonial legacies. The country’s cultural heritage is reflected in its architecture, literature, music, and cuisine.
