Complete Geography Notes on Geographical Location and Extent of Bihar for BPSC and Other Competitive Exams in 2025
Geography-2
Here’s a detailed explanation on “Geographical Location and Extent of Bihar“, structured according to the BPSC Prelims Syllabus, with in-depth information on:
- Latitude and Longitude
- Area and Size (National Context)
- Borders with Neighboring States and Countries
- Administrative Divisions – Divisions and Districts (Detailed)
Geographical Location and Extent of Bihar
1. Latitude and Longitude
- Latitude: Between 24°20’10” N to 27°31’15” N
- Longitude: Between 83°19’50” E to 88°17’40” E
- Lies in the Eastern part of India.
- Lies in the subtropical zone, contributing to its monsoonal climate.
Implication:
- These coordinates place Bihar in a zone that supports agriculture, due to ample sunshine and rainfall.
2. Area and Size (National Context)
- Total Area: 94,163 sq. km
- Rank by Area in India: 12th largest state
- Percentage of India’s Total Area: ~2.86%
- Population (2021 est.): ~12.5–13 crores
- Rank by Population: 3rd most populous state (after Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra)
Implication:
- High population density, especially in the Gangetic plains, impacts infrastructure, agriculture, and flood management.
3. Borders with Neighboring States and Countries
Bihar shares its borders with three Indian states and one international neighbor:
| Direction | Bordering State/Country | Key Border Districts |
| North | Nepal (International border) | West Champaran, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj |
| East | West Bengal | Katihar, Purnia, Kishanganj, Araria |
| South | Jharkhand | Jamui, Nawada, Gaya, Aurangabad, Rohtas, Kaimur |
| West | Uttar Pradesh | Buxar, Rohtas, Kaimur, West Champaran |
Strategic Importance:
- Northern international border with Nepal is critical for trade, security, and migration.
- Several rivers enter Bihar from Nepal (Bagmati, Gandak, Kosi), leading to annual floods.
4. Administrative Divisions of Bihar (Detailed)
Bihar is divided into:
- 9 Administrative Divisions (प्रमंडल / मंडल)
- *38 Districts (जिले)
List of 9 Divisions and Their Districts
| Division | Districts |
| 1. Patna | Patna, Nalanda, Bhojpur, Buxar, Rohtas, Kaimur, Arwal |
| 2. Tirhut (Muzaffarpur) | Muzaffarpur, East Champaran, West Champaran, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Vaishali |
| 3. Saran (Chhapra) | Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj |
| 4. Darbhanga | Darbhanga, Madhubani, Samastipur |
| 5. Kosi (Saharsa) | Saharsa, Supaul, Madhepura |
| 6. Purnia | Purnia, Araria, Kishanganj, Katihar |
| 7. Bhagalpur | Bhagalpur, Banka |
| 8. Munger | Munger, Lakhisarai, Sheikhpura, Jamui, Khagaria |
| 9. Magadh (Gaya) | Gaya, Nawada, Aurangabad, Jehanabad |
Facts to Remember:
- Largest District by Area: West Champaran
- Smallest District by Area: Sheikhpura
- Newly created districts in last 20 years: Arwal, Sheohar, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai
Summary for Prelims MCQ Focus:
| Topic | Key Facts |
| Latitude | 24°20’10″N to 27°31’15″N |
| Longitude | 83°19’50″E to 88°17’40″E |
| Total Area | 94,163 sq. km |
| Area Rank | 12th in India |
| Border Countries | Nepal (North) |
| Border States | UP (West), Jharkhand (South), West Bengal (East) |
| Divisions | 9 |
| Districts | 38 |
| Largest District | West Champaran |
| Smallest District | Sheikhpura |
Bihar during Ondependent movement