Top 10 Countries with the Largest Hindu Population in the World – (2026 stats)

Hinduism is the third-largest religion in the world, following Christianity and Islam. With its roots stretching back more than 4,000 years, Hinduism is widely regarded as the oldest living religion still practiced today. Unlike many other faiths, Hinduism does not have a single founder and encompasses a broad range of philosophies, rituals, scriptures, and cultural traditions.

As of 2026, the global Hindu population is estimated at around 1.25 billion people, representing roughly 15–16% of the world’s total population. While Hinduism originated in the Indian subcontinent, Hindu communities today are found across Asia, Europe, North America, Africa, and Oceania due to centuries of migration and globalization.

India remains the undisputed center of Hinduism, but several other countries also have significant Hindu populations. Below is a fully updated ranking of the top 10 countries with the largest Hindu population in 2026, based on demographic estimates, census trends, and international research data.

Global Distribution of Hinduism (2026)

• Hinduism is concentrated mainly in South Asia
• India alone accounts for over 90% of the world’s Hindus
• Hindu populations are growing steadily in Western countries due to migration
• Fertility rates and population growth vary significantly by region

Top 10 Countries with the Largest Hindu Population (2026)

1. India

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~1.05 billion
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~84–85%

India is the birthplace and spiritual heart of Hinduism. The religion is deeply embedded in Indian culture, philosophy, festivals, and daily life. Hinduism influences everything from social traditions to art, architecture, and governance.

Although India’s total population continues to grow, the percentage of Hindus has remained relatively stable, with slight regional variations due to demographic changes.

2. Nepal

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~24 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~2%

Nepal is the only country in the world where Hinduism remains the majority religion at the national level after India. Hindu beliefs and traditions strongly influence Nepalese culture, law, and social customs.

3. Bangladesh

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~14 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~1.1%

Bangladesh hosts one of the largest Hindu minority populations in the world. Although the proportion has declined over decades, Hindus continue to play a vital role in the country’s cultural and historical identity.

4. Indonesia

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~4.5 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~0.4%

Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, is home to a significant Hindu population, especially on the island of Bali, where Hinduism shapes local traditions, architecture, and daily life.

5. Pakistan

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~3.7 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~0.3%

Pakistan has one of the largest Hindu minority populations in the Islamic world. Most Hindus live in Sindh province, where ancient Hindu heritage continues to survive.

6. Sri Lanka

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~2.9 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~0.2%

In Sri Lanka, Hinduism is primarily practiced by the Tamil community. Hindu temples and traditions remain a significant part of the island’s cultural landscape.

7. United States

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~3.5 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~0.3%

The United States has one of the fastest-growing Hindu populations outside Asia, largely due to immigration from India and Nepal. Hindu Americans are among the most highly educated religious groups in the country.

8. Malaysia

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~1.9 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~0.15%

Most Hindus in Malaysia are of Indian origin. Hindu festivals such as Thaipusam and Diwali are widely celebrated and officially recognized.

9. Myanmar

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~900,000
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~0.1%

Hindu communities in Myanmar are relatively small but historically significant, dating back to ancient trade routes between South and Southeast Asia.

10. United Kingdom

• Estimated Hindu Population (2026): ~1.2 million
• Share of World’s Hindus: ~0.1%

The United Kingdom has one of Europe’s largest Hindu populations, mainly concentrated in London, Leicester, and Birmingham. Hindu temples and cultural centers play a major role in community life.

Key Trends in Hindu Population (2026)

• India remains the dominant center of Hinduism
• Hindu diaspora populations are growing in Western countries
• Migration is reshaping Hindu demographics globally
• Fertility rates among Hindus vary by region, not religion alone

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which country has the largest Hindu population in 2026?

India has the largest Hindu population, with over 1 billion Hindus.

2. What percentage of the world’s Hindus live in India?

Around 85% of the global Hindu population lives in India.

3. Is Hinduism growing worldwide?

Yes, Hinduism is growing slowly worldwide, mainly due to population growth in South Asia and migration.

4. Which country has the largest Hindu population outside India?

Nepal has the largest Hindu population outside India.

5. Are Hindus present in Western countries?

Yes, significant Hindu communities exist in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.