When it comes to real estate and land transactions in India, one of the most confusing aspects for buyers and sellers is the variety of land measurement units used across different states. From Kattha in Bihar to Bigha in Uttar Pradesh, and from Acre to Hectare, the units vary not just in name but also in size — often depending on the region.
This guide breaks down the most commonly used land measurement units in India, their regional usage, and how they relate to each other.
1. Standard Land Units (Used Nationwide)
| Unit | Size (in sq. meters) | Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Square Meter | 1 sq. meter | Standard SI unit |
| Square Foot | 0.0929 sq. meters | Widely used in cities |
| Acre | 4,046.86 sq. meters | 43,560 sq. feet |
| Hectare | 10,000 sq. meters | 2.471 acres |
These are standard units recognized across India, especially in urban property documentation and government records.
2. Traditional Land Units by Region
| Unit | Approx. Size | Predominant Region |
|---|---|---|
| Bigha | Varies (1,500–12,500 sq. ft) | UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana, Himachal, Assam |
| Kattha | 750–1,361 sq. ft | Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam |
| Kanal | 5,445 sq. ft | Punjab, J&K, Himachal |
| Marla | 272.25–272.75 sq. ft | Punjab, Haryana, Pakistan |
| Ground | 2,400 sq. ft | Tamil Nadu |
| Cent | 435.6 sq. ft | Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala |
| Gunta | 1,089 sq. ft | Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana |
| Biswa | Varies by state | Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand |
| Are | 100 sq. meters | Metric equivalent, used in records |
⚠️ Note: Many traditional units like Bigha and Kattha have different values in different districts or states, so always double-check local conversion norms.
3. Conversion Examples
- 1 Acre = 100 Cents (in South India)
- 1 Acre = 40 Guntas (in Karnataka)
- 1 Acre = 1.6 Bigha (approx., in parts of UP)
- 1 Hectare = 2.471 Acres = ~6.177 Bigha (in UP)
4. Why the Confusion Exists
India’s diverse historical land records, colonial influences, and regional practices have led to a lack of uniformity in land measurement. Even today, rural and semi-urban transactions often reference traditional units, whereas urban real estate uses metric and imperial standards.
5. Pro Tip for Buyers and Sellers
- Always verify conversions with local authorities or a reliable real estate expert.
- Ask for land measurement in square meters or square feet for legal clarity.
- Use official conversion calculators or refer to state land revenue departments when in doubt.
Final Thoughts
Understanding land measurement units in India is crucial for making informed property decisions. While traditional units still hold cultural and practical relevance, standardizing measurements helps reduce ambiguity and ensures transparency in transactions.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, knowing your Bigha from your Acre can save you from costly mistakes and bring you a step closer to a smarter real estate experience.
FAQs
India uses a mix of traditional and standard units for land measurement. Common units include Bigha, Kattha, Acre, Hectare, Square Feet, Square Meters, Cent, Gunta, and Marla. The specific unit depends on the region.
The size of 1 Bigha varies by state:
– In Uttar Pradesh: ~27,000 sq. ft
– In Rajasthan: ~17,424 sq. ft
– In Assam: ~14,400 sq. ft
Always check local definitions before making a calculation.
– 1 Acre = 4,046.86 sq. meters or 43,560 sq. ft
– 1 Hectare = 10,000 sq. meters = 2.471 Acres
Hectare is larger and more commonly used in agricultural and government records.
Kattha is a traditional unit of land measurement used in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Assam. Its size can vary:
– In Bihar: ~1,361 sq. ft
– In Assam: ~2,880 sq. ft
There are 100 Cents in 1 Acre. This unit is widely used in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.
1 Gunta = 1,089 sq. ft. It’s used in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
40 Guntas make up 1 Acre.
Due to regional history, cultural practices, and colonial legacies, land units differ by state. While cities use metric or imperial units, rural areas often stick to traditional ones.
Use verified conversion charts, consult local property records, or rely on real estate portals like Real Fynd that provide accurate conversion tools and region-specific insights.
For legal clarity, use Square Feet, Square Meters, Acres, or Hectares—as these are officially recognized by land registration departments and municipal bodies across India.
