India’s population crossed 1.4 billion, but not all states are bursting with people. Some regions remain calm, green, and peaceful, with small populations and vast open spaces. These are the least populated states of India, and they tell a very different story of growth and lifestyle.

While states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra have massive populations, these smaller states live at their own rhythm. Their geography, climate, and way of life naturally limit how many people can live there. Below, we’ll explore the 10 least populated states of India, understand their approximate populations, reasons for low density, and unique characteristics.

Overview: 10 Least Populated States of India (2025 Estimate)

Rank	State	Estimated Population	Key Feature
1	Sikkim	~7 lakh	Least populated state in India
2	Mizoram	~12 lakh	Forest-rich hills and low migration
3	Arunachal Pradesh	~16 lakh	Huge area but thin population
4	Goa	~16 lakh	Small area, regulated growth
5	Nagaland	~22 lakh	Scattered tribal villages
6	Manipur	~33 lakh	Uneven terrain, small valley
7	Meghalaya	~34 lakh	Plateau with limited farmland
8	Tripura	~41 lakh	Small land, border limits
9	Himachal Pradesh	~74 lakh	Mountainous terrain
10	Uttarakhand	~1 crore	Forested Himalayas, limited plains

1. Sikkim – The Smallest and Least Populated State of India

Sikkim is the smallest state by population in India. Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, it is known for snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and clean rivers. The population remains low because most of the land is mountainous, leaving little room for large settlements or cities. The state’s focus on organic farming and eco-tourism has made it famous, but its terrain limits large-scale infrastructure or industry. Still, Sikkim enjoys high literacy rates, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful lifestyle.

Key Highlights of Sikkim

• Population: Around 7 lakh
• Capital: Gangtok
• Literacy Rate: Over 80%
• Major Economy: Tourism, Hydropower, Organic Farming
• Unique Fact: India’s first fully organic state

2. Mizoram – A Land of Rolling Hills and Bamboo Forests

Mizoram, in the northeast, is covered with dense bamboo forests and winding hills. The terrain is beautiful, but it makes it hard for big cities or industries to grow. Villages are small, and most people depend on farming or handicrafts. The population density is among the lowest in India. The Mizo community values simplicity, cleanliness, and education. Despite being one of the least populated states of India, Mizoram has one of the highest literacy rates.

Key Highlights of Mizoram

• Population: Around 12 lakh
• Capital: Aizawl
• Major Language: Mizo
• Economy: Bamboo products, Handicrafts, Agriculture
• Unique Fact: Over 85% literacy rate

3. Arunachal Pradesh – The Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains

Arunachal Pradesh is India’s largest northeastern state by area but has a very small population. Thick forests, rugged terrain, and limited road access make large-scale living difficult. It borders China, Bhutan, and Myanmar, and is known for its breathtaking valleys and tribes. Because of its mountains and rivers, much of the state remains uninhabited. Agriculture is mostly shifting cultivation, and many people live in small tribal villages.

Key Highlights of Arunachal Pradesh

• Population: Around 16 lakh
• Capital: Itanagar
• Area: Over 83,000 sq. km
• Economy: Agriculture, Handloom, Tourism
• Unique Fact: One of the least densely populated states in India

4. Goa – Small in Size, Rich in Spirit

Goa is India’s smallest state by area and among the least populated states by total count. Famous for its beaches, churches, and tourism, Goa balances growth with strict environmental protection. Because of its small size and strict land regulations, it cannot expand much. Despite that, Goa has a high standard of living, modern infrastructure, and a unique mix of Indian and Portuguese culture.

Key Highlights of Goa

• Population: Around 16 lakh
• Capital: Panaji
• Economy: Tourism, Fishing, Mining
• Unique Fact: One of India’s highest per capita income states
• Density: High in coastal towns, low inland

5. Nagaland – The Tribal Heartland of the Northeast

Nagaland is known for its scenic hills, vibrant tribal festivals, and traditional lifestyles. Its population is small because of its rugged terrain and scattered settlements.

Villages are self-sufficient and culturally rich. Migration to urban centers is limited, which keeps the overall population low. Nagaland’s community-based living and unique traditions make it one of India’s most distinct and least crowded states.

Key Highlights of Nagaland

• Population: Around 22 lakh
• Capital: Kohima
• Language: English (official)
• Economy: Handloom, Agriculture, Tourism
• Unique Fact: Known for the Hornbill Festival

6. Manipur – Valley Life Amid Hills

Manipur lies in the northeast and combines hills with a fertile central valley. The valley areas are densely settled, but the hills remain thinly populated. This uneven distribution keeps the total population moderate. Manipur is famous for its sports culture, handloom industry, and classical dance. Limited connectivity and industrial growth have kept migration low.

Key Highlights of Manipur

• Population: Around 33 lakh
• Capital: Imphal
• Major Occupation: Farming, Handloom
• Terrain: 90% Hills, 10% Valley
• Unique Fact: Birthplace of Polo

7. Meghalaya – The Abode of Clouds

Meghalaya’s name means “home of clouds,” and it truly fits. Its plateaus, waterfalls, and caves make it a paradise for nature lovers. However, its terrain and heavy rainfall make construction difficult. The state has many small towns and rural settlements, but few big cities. Farming and tourism dominate its economy. Population growth is steady but remains lower than the national average.

Key Highlights of Meghalaya

• Population: Around 34 lakh
• Capital: Shillong
• Economy: Agriculture, Tourism, Limestone Mining
• Climate: Heavy rainfall all year
• Unique Fact: Home to Mawsynram, the wettest place on Earth

8. Tripura – Small State with a Big Heart

Tripura is bordered by Bangladesh on three sides, which limits expansion and trade. Its small size naturally restricts population. Despite these challenges, Tripura has grown as a cultural hub of the northeast. The economy relies on bamboo, rubber, and handcrafts. The population is concentrated in a few urban pockets.

Key Highlights of Tripura

• Population: Around 41 lakh
• Capital: Agartala
• Economy: Bamboo, Rubber, Tourism
• Literacy: Above 85%
• Unique Fact: One of the most literate small states in India

9. Himachal Pradesh – Land of Valleys and Peaks

Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful Himalayan state, but its geography limits population. Many areas experience heavy snow in winter, making year-round living tough. Most of the population lives in small valleys and towns. Agriculture, tourism, and horticulture are major income sources. Despite the small population, Himachal enjoys high human development and cleanliness rankings.

Key Highlights of Himachal Pradesh

• Population: Around 74 lakh
• Capital: Shimla
• Economy: Tourism, Apple Farming, Hydropower
• Terrain: Mostly mountains and valleys
• Unique Fact: One of India’s greenest states

10. Uttarakhand – The Spiritual and Scenic Mountain State

Uttarakhand lies in the western Himalayas and is home to sacred rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna. Its districts are mostly hilly, and a large portion of land is forested or protected. Because of these natural features, the population is concentrated in lower regions like Dehradun and Haridwar, while upper districts remain sparsely populated. Tourism and pilgrimage attract visitors but not permanent settlers.

Key Highlights of Uttarakhand

• Population: Around 1 crore
• Capital: Dehradun
• Major Economy: Tourism, Agriculture, Hydropower
• Terrain: Mountainous with deep valleys
• Unique Fact: Known as Devbhumi, the “Land of Gods”

Why are some states in India less populated?

India’s geography plays a huge role in shaping where people live. The least populated states of India are often found in mountain regions, forest belts, or areas with limited farmland. States like Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh have beautiful landscapes but very little flat land. Harsh climates, heavy rainfall, and long distances from major cities also limit migration and industrial growth. These natural barriers explain why some states stay quiet and sparsely populated despite their scenic beauty.

Key Reasons for Low Population Density

• Mountain and plateau terrain restrict large urban settlements.
• Difficult climates make farming and travel harder.
• Limited job hubs slow migration from other regions.
• Environmental policies protect forest and wildlife zones.
• Community-based living reduces the push for expansion.

Which State Has the Lowest Population in India, and Why?

As of 2025, Sikkim holds the title of the least populated state of India, with an estimated population of around 7 lakh people. It remains small because of its steep mountains, narrow valleys, and focus on eco-friendly living. Unlike larger states that expand through cities and industries, Sikkim preserves its environment through organic farming and green tourism. The limited buildable land keeps housing and urban areas small, which naturally controls population growth.

Quick Facts About Sikkim’s Population:

• Population (2025): ~7 lakh
• Capital: Gangtok
• Density: Among the lowest in India
• Known for: Organic farming, tourism, clean environment

FAQs

1. Which is the least populated state of India in 2025?

The least populated state of India in 2025 is Sikkim, with a population of around 7 lakh. Its Himalayan terrain and protected green zones keep settlement growth limited.

2. Which Indian states have the smallest populations overall?

The top 10 least populated states of India are Sikkim, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

3. Why does Sikkim remain the least populated state of India?

Sikkim’s geography, eco-friendly policies, and organic farming focus keep it low in population. Only a few valleys are suitable for large settlements.

4. Which Indian state has the lowest population density?

Arunachal Pradesh has India’s lowest population density because of its mountainous terrain and dense forest cover, with people living in small, scattered communities.

5. Are the northeastern states of India less populated?

Yes. Northeastern states like Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur have smaller populations because they are hilly, forested, and far from major industrial centers.

6. Does Goa rank among the least populated states in India?

Yes, Goa is among the least populated states. With around 16 lakh people, strict land-use planning helps it remain clean, compact, and environmentally stable.

7. Which small states of India have high literacy despite low population?

Mizoram, Tripura, and Sikkim have some of the highest literacy rates in India even with small populations, reflecting their focus on education and social awareness.

8. Why do mountain states have smaller populations?

Cold weather, steep slopes, and limited farmland in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand restrict population growth and make urban development difficult.

9. What are the benefits of living in less populated states of India?

Less crowded states offer cleaner air, peaceful surroundings, and strong community life. They’re ideal for eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and natural living.

10. Is population growth slowing in smaller Indian states?

Yes, some smaller states such as Sikkim and Nagaland show slow or negative growth. Migration to metros and natural barriers affect population trends.