The district was previously also known as Aliganj Siwan after the name of Raja Ali Bux Khan.

[3] The district occupies an area of 2,219 square kilometres (857 sq mi).

[4] Siwan district, situated in the western part of the state, was originally a sub-division of Saran district, which in ancient times formed a part of Kosala Kingdom.

Babar crossed Ghaghra river near Siswan in his return journey.

A good number of them rebelled and rendered their services to Babu Kunwar Singh.

[10] Siwan is divided into 2 sub-divisions, 19 Blocks, 4 municipalities[11] and 293 Gram Panchayats (village councils).