Top 10 countries with the shortest people
In our previous exploration, we embarked on a fascinating journey to discover the world’s most densely populated nations, revealing the rich tapestry of our global community. Today, we embark on a different kind of adventure, one that brings us face to face with an intriguing aspect of human diversity – the heights of nations.
Yes, you read that right! In this article, we’ll be diving headfirst into the captivating world of average height across countries. It’s a metric that often flies under the radar but can provide us with unique insights into the people who call these nations home. So, join us on this extraordinary journey as we uncover the ten countries that have achieved remarkably low “high scores” in terms of their citizens’ average height.
From genetics to nutrition, culture to environment, there are countless factors that contribute to a nation’s average height. As we delve into this fascinating subject, we’ll unravel the stories behind these statistics, shedding light on the captivating nuances that make our world such a diverse and intriguing place.
Indonesia – 158 cm
Indonesia, officially known as the Republic of Indonesia, is a captivating archipelagic nation that gracefully stretches across the realms of Southeast Asia and Oceania. This breathtaking country is renowned for its ethereal beauty, boasting a staggering 13,487 small islands. It’s no wonder that Indonesia has aptly earned its moniker as the “Land of a Thousand Islands.” Yet, beyond its natural wonders, Indonesia stands out for another distinctive trait—it tops the list among countries with the shortest average height.
The average height of Indonesians is a modest 158 centimeters (62.2 inches). However, what’s truly intriguing is the gender-based distribution within this statistic. Indonesian men have an average height of approximately 166.26 cm (5 ft 5 in), while their female counterparts measure an average height of around 154.36 cm (5 ft 1 in). This unique blend of natural beauty and demographic features makes Indonesia a truly remarkable nation in Southeast Asia.
Bolivia – 159.7 cm
Bolivia, officially designated as the Plurinational State of Bolivia, is a landlocked gem nestled in the heart of central South America. This vibrant country shares its borders with Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Peru, captivating travelers with its rich culture and diverse landscapes. Yet, Bolivia is not only celebrated for its geographical diversity but also for its average height.
On average, Bolivians stand at 159.7 cm (62.9 inches) tall. Delving further into this statistic reveals that Bolivian men have an average height of approximately 168.1 cm (5 ft 6 in), while Bolivian women possess an average height of around 155.58 cm (5 ft 1 in). Bolivia’s unique blend of cultural richness and demographic characteristics makes it a truly captivating destination in the heart of South America.
Philippines – 161.8 cm
The Philippines, officially known as the Republic of the Philippines or the Philippine Islands, graces the archipelagic tapestry of Southeast Asia. Located along the Pacific volcanic belt and nestled near the equator, the Philippines boasts a unique blend of culture and nature. Prone to nature’s whims, this country holds the distinction of being the 7th most populous in Asia, the 2nd in Southeast Asia, and the 12th globally. Yet, amidst this vibrant cultural and natural tapestry, the average stature of Filipinos measures 161.8 cm (63.7 inches).
This statistic divides further when examining gender. Filipino men, on average, stand at around 165.2 cm (5 ft 5 in), while Filipino women achieve an average height of approximately 154.1 cm (5 ft 1 in). The Philippines is not only a land of natural wonders but also a place where the heights of its people contribute to its unique identity.
Vietnam – 162.1 cm
Vietnam, officially designated as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, holds a cherished place within the tapestry of Southeast Asia. A symphony of borders connect this country with Laos, Cambodia, China, the East Sea, and the Gulf of Thailand. Against this vibrant backdrop, the average height of Vietnamese individuals emerges at 162.1 cm (63.8 inches).
Further exploration unveils that Vietnamese men stand at an average height of approximately 168.1 cm (5 ft 6 in), while their female counterparts achieve an average height of around 156.2 cm (5 ft 2 in). Vietnam’s unique blend of cultural diversity and demographic characteristics makes it a jewel in the crown of Southeast Asia.
Cambodia – 162.5 cm
Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, resides as a jewel upon the Indochinese peninsula in Southeast Asia. Boasting a population of over 15 million, this culturally rich land is home to a myriad of ethnic groups, including Vietnamese, Chinese, Cham, and various hill tribes. Amidst this diversity, Cambodians stand at an average height of 162.5 cm (63.98 inches).
Men in Cambodia achieve an average height of approximately 165.3 cm (5 ft 5 in), while Cambodian women possess an average height of around 154.7 cm (5 ft 1 in). Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and its people’s unique heights contribute to the nation’s identity as a cultural gem in Southeast Asia.
Nepal – 163 cm
Nepal, officially recognized as the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, stands as a landlocked gem within the heart of South Asia. This nation’s reputation is enshrined in its towering mountain ranges, notably including the awe-inspiring Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse. A haven for adventurers and climbers, Nepal offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
In terms of height, the average stature of Nepalese individuals stands at 163 cm (64.17 inches). Nepalese men attain an average height of approximately 164.36 cm (5 ft 5 in), while Nepalese women hold an average height of around 152.39 cm (5 ft). Nepal’s unique blend of towering peaks and the heights of its people make it a truly extraordinary destination in South Asia.
Ecuador – 163.4 cm
Ecuador, officially designated as the Republic of Ecuador, graces the canvas of South America as a representative democratic republic. Amidst its vibrant cultural tapestry, Ecuador is celebrated for its gastronomic diversity, offering a spectrum of foods ranging from delectable meats and seafood to thriving crops and vegetables.
The stature of Ecuadorians stands at an average height of 163.4 cm (64.37 inches), situating them within the list of nations with shorter populations. Ecuadorian men possess an average height of approximately 167.3 cm (5 ft 6 in), while Ecuadorian women embody an average height of around 155.25 cm (5 ft 1 in). Ecuador’s unique blend of culinary delights and its people’s heights contribute to its identity as a captivating nation in South America.
Sri Lanka – 163.6 cm
Sri Lanka, known officially as the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, graces the expanse of South Asia as an enchanting island nation. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage captivate all who venture to its shores. With an average height of 163.6 cm (64.41 inches), Sri Lankans find themselves amidst the ranks of shorter populations globally.
Sri Lankan men maintain an average height of around 168.07 cm (5 ft 6 in), while their female counterparts stand at an average height of approximately 155.88 cm (5 ft 1 in). Sri Lanka’s blend of natural beauty and the heights of its people contribute to its allure as a captivating island nation.
Nigeria – 163.8 cm
Nigeria, recognized officially as the Federal Republic of Nigeria, emerges as a prominent West African nation. Bordered by Benin to the west, Niger and Chad to the north and northeast, Cameroon to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south, Nigeria’s diverse landscape and cultural richness form a tapestry of experiences.
With a population exceeding 174 million (as per the 2013 census), the average height of Nigerians is 163.8 cm (64.49 inches). While Nigerian women attain an average height of approximately 171.5 cm (5 ft 8 in), Nigerian men have an average height of around 158.1 cm (5 ft 2 in). Nigeria’s unique blend of cultural diversity and the heights of its people contribute to its prominence as a West African nation.
Peru – 164 cm
Peru, designated as the Republic of Peru, graces the western expanse of South America. With Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, and Bolivia and Chile to the southeast and south, Peru’s geography is as diverse as its cultural heritage. Among the top 10 countries with shorter average height, Peru holds its place with an average stature of 164 cm (64.57 inches).
Peruvian men, on average, reach a height of around 166.75 cm (5 ft 6 in), while Peruvian women attain an average height of approximately 154.39 cm (5 ft 1 in). Peru’s unique blend of geographical diversity and the heights of its people contribute to its identity as a captivating nation in South America.