Karnataka is a land of immense beauty and diversity, located in the southern part of India and comprising a total of 31 districts. From the lush green mountains of the Western Ghats to the dry plains of the Deccan, the state showcases striking geographical contrasts. Each district stands out with its own cultural, economic, and environmental identity. But do you know which one is the largest? Let’s find out.
Largest District – Belagavi: The largest district in Karnataka is Belagavi, spanning an impressive 13,433 square kilometres. Situated in the north-western part of the state, it shares borders with Maharashtra and Goa. Belagavi is well known for its cultural diversity, educational institutions, military cantonment, and growing industrial base. Alongside agriculture, the district also houses numerous sugar factories, making it an important contributor to the state’s economy.
Second Largest District – Kalaburagi: Next comes Kalaburagi, covering an area of 10,954 square kilometres. Located in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region, this district holds great historical importance as it once served as the capital of the Bahmani Empire. Today, Kalaburagi is thriving in the fields of cement production, agriculture, and education, marking it as one of the rapidly developing regions in the state.
Third Largest District – Vijayapura: Formerly known as Bijapur, Vijayapura extends across 10,494 square kilometres. The district is famous for its rich heritage and architectural marvels such as Gol Gumbaz and Ibrahim Rauza. Its magnificent Indo-Islamic structures make it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.
Fourth Largest District – Tumakuru: Located close to Bengaluru, it spans around 10,598 square kilometres. The district has achieved balanced progress in both industry and agriculture. Its proximity to major industrial zones like Peenya and Nelamangala has significantly increased employment opportunities, contributing to its rapid urban growth.
Fifth Largest District – Uttara Kannada: It is , nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats and covers an area of about 10,277 square kilometres. The region is home to lush green forests and towns such as Karwar, Ankola, Dandeli, and Sirsi. Known for its rich biodiversity, natural beauty, and eco-tourism, Uttara Kannada symbolises Karnataka’s environmental wealth.
Smallest District – Bengaluru City: On the other end of the spectrum lies Bengaluru City, the smallest district in Karnataka, with an area of just 2,196 square kilometres.
Despite its size, Bengaluru is the most economically advanced region in the state and one of the leading cities in India. Known as the ‘Silicon Valley of India’, Bengaluru is a hub for technology, education, and innovation.
Karnataka is broadly divided into four major regions — Western Ghats, Coastal Region, Malnad, and Bayaluseema — each with distinct climatic, cultural, and economic characteristics.
From Belagavi in the north to Mangaluru on the coast, and Bidar in the east to Mysuru in the south, the state reflects a rich blend of natural diversity and cultural heritage. Although Belagavi holds the title of Karnataka’s largest district, every district plays a vital role in shaping the state’s development, together forming the strong pillars of industry, economy, agriculture, education, and tourism.
