Top 5 Countries with the Shortest People in the World

The global average height is about 166.99 centimeters (5 feet 5.7 inches), but this varies significantly across different regions.

In Southeast Asia and some parts of Central and South America, the average heights are much shorter due to a combination of factors.

Here’s a list of the top 5 countries with the shortest people in the world:

1. Timor Leste (East Timor) – 156.42 cm (5 feet 1.6 inches)

Timor Leste holds the record for the shortest average height globally. Men typically reach about 159.79 cm (5 feet 2.9 inches), while women average around 151.15 cm (4 feet 11.5 inches). This is largely due to genetic factors that influence growth from an early age.

2. Guatemala – 157.64 cm (5 feet 2 inches)

Guatemala features some of the world’s shortest average heights. Men average about 163.4 cm (5 feet 4.3 inches), and women about 149.38 cm (4 feet 10.8 inches). The short stature in Guatemala is mostly attributed to genetic factors prevalent among indigenous populations.

3. Laos – 157.94 cm (5 feet 2.2 inches)

In Laos, the average height is 157.94 cm, with women averaging 151.26 cm (4 feet 11.6 inches) and men 160.51 cm (5 feet 3.2 inches). Socioeconomic factors, including health and diet influenced by heredity, play significant roles.

4. Nepal – 158.38 cm (5 feet 2.4 inches)

Nepal’s average height stands at 158.38 cm. Women generally measure about 150.86 cm (4 feet 11.4 inches) and men 162.31 cm (5 feet 3.9 inches). The combination of genetic, healthcare, and nutritional factors contribute to these statistics.

5. Bangladesh – 158.73 cm (5 feet 2.5 inches)

With an average height of 158.73 cm, Bangladesh ranks among the countries with the shortest stature. Men are typically around 163.8 cm (5 feet 4.5 inches) and women about 150.78 cm (4 feet 11.4 inches).