10 Tiny Countries You Won’t Believe Are Smaller Than Indian Towns
Discover the world’s 10 smallest countries — from Vatican City to Malta — many tinier than Indian towns but rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
1. Vatican City With an area of just 0.49 square kilometres, Vatican City is the world’s smallest country. It houses the Pope, historic basilicas, museums, and lush gardens, all within a compact walled enclave. (Image: Canva)
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2. Monaco At only 2.1 square kilometres, Monaco packs luxury casinos, marinas, and Formula 1 streets into a space smaller than many Indian neighbourhoods, making it one of the densest yet richest microstates globally. (Image: Canva)
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3. Nauru This Pacific island spans about 21 square kilometres. Known for its phosphate deposits, coral cliffs, and small population, Nauru remains one of the least-visited and most isolated sovereign nations worldwide. (Image: Canva)
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4. Tuvalu Comprising nine islands in the Pacific Ocean, Tuvalu covers just 26 square kilometres. Its low-lying atolls, palm-lined beaches, and traditional culture make it beautiful but vulnerable to rising sea levels. (Image: Canva)
5. San Marino Encircled by Italy, San Marino occupies 61 square kilometres. This oldest republic features medieval fortresses, cobblestone lanes, and panoramic mountain views, combining heritage with microstate charm. (Image: Canva)
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6. Liechtenstein At 160 square kilometres, this alpine country between Switzerland and Austria blends mountain scenery, medieval castles, and finance hubs. Despite its size, it has one of the highest living standards worldwide. (Image: Canva)
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7. Marshall Islands Spread across coral atolls in the Pacific Ocean, this 181-square-kilometre nation combines wartime history with natural beauty. It’s remote, sparsely populated, and faces ongoing climate challenges. (Image: Canva)
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8. Saint Kitts and Nevis This two-island Caribbean nation spans 261 square kilometres. It offers volcanic peaks, lush rainforests, beaches, and colonial heritage, making it small but culturally rich and tourist-friendly. (Image: Canva)
9. Maldives Scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives consists of 298 square kilometres of islands and atolls. Its white sand beaches, coral reefs, and marine life attract travellers worldwide despite its compact footprint. (Image: Canva)
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10. Malta With 316 square kilometres, Malta sits in the Mediterranean Sea, blending historic fortresses, limestone cliffs, and vibrant harbours. Though small, it holds an outsized role in history and European culture. (Image: Canva)