Bhagalpur is a major city in the Indian state of Bihar and is the third-largest city in the state after Patna and Gaya. It is located about 220 km east of Patna and is popularly known as the “Silk City” due to its famous silk industry. Bhagalpur is an important commercial, educational, and cultural center in eastern Bihar.
The city has witnessed steady urban growth due to improved infrastructure, trade activities, and educational institutions. Its historical and economic importance continues to attract population from nearby regions.
As per the Census of India 2011, the population of Bhagalpur City was 3,98,138 (3.98 lakh). Based on recent estimates, the population of Bhagalpur in 2026 is around 6 lakh, showing significant growth over the last decade.
👉 Projected Population of Bhagalpur City (2026): ~6 lakh
Census 2011 Key Highlights
According to the 2011 Census of India, Bhagalpur city had a total population of 3.98 lakh (398,138). The city recorded an average literacy rate of 81.16%, with male literacy at 85.38% and female literacy at 76.31%. The sex ratio stood at 878 females per 1,000 males, while the child sex ratio was 916.
Children in the 0–6 years age group accounted for 13.52% of the total population. Bhagalpur had a population density of about 6,800 persons per sq. km, spread over an administrative area of nearly 30 sq. km, indicating moderate urban concentration.
Demography Quick Facts (Census 2011)
| Category | Total | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 398,138 (3.98 lakh) | 212,005 | 186,133 |
| Children (0–6) | 53,775 | 28,061 | 25,714 |
| Literacy Rate (%) | 81.16 | 85.38 | 76.31 |
| Sex Ratio | 878 | — | — |
| Child Sex Ratio | 916 | — | — |
| Population Density | 6,800 / sq. km | — | — |
Source: Census of India 2011
Also read about: List of Cities in Bihar
Bhagalpur District Population Overview
Bhagalpur is one of the 38 districts of Bihar and plays an important role in the state’s administrative, commercial, and educational development. The district is known for its silk industry, agricultural activities, and historical significance, making it an important region in eastern Bihar.
As per the Census of India 2011, the population of Bhagalpur district was 30.38 lakh (3,037,766), with 16.16 lakh males and 14.22 lakh females. The district recorded an average literacy rate of 63.14%, while the sex ratio stood at 880 females per 1,000 males. The child sex ratio was 938, indicating relatively better gender balance among children.
Based on recent estimates, the population of Bhagalpur district in 2026 is around 39 lakh, reflecting steady demographic growth.
Projected Population of Bhagalpur District (2026): ~39 lakh
Census 2011 Key Highlights
According to the 2011 Census of India, Bhagalpur district had a total population of 3,037,766 (30.38 lakh). The district covers an area of about 2,569 sq. km and had a population density of 1,182 persons per sq. km.
The district recorded an average literacy rate of 63.14%, with notable progress in education over the past decade. Demographic indicators such as sex ratio and child sex ratio reflect ongoing social and developmental changes.
Demography Quick Facts (Census 2011)
| Category | Total | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,037,766 (30.38 lakh) | 1,615,663 | 1,422,103 |
| Literacy Rate (%) | 63.14 | — | — |
| District Area | 2,569 sq. km | — | — |
| Population Density | 1,182 / sq. km | — | — |
| Sex Ratio | 880 | — | — |
| Child Sex Ratio | 938 | — | — |
Source: Census of India 2011
Also read about: List of Districts in Bihar