Humans are primarily susceptible to the exposure of cosmic rays and terrestrial gamma rays which arise from three major primitive radionuclides including 226Ra, 232Th and 40 K. The variation in the amount of terrestrial gamma rays relies on regional geography along with the content of these three radioactive substances found in the earth’s outermost layer. The concern over these rays has been increasing worldwide due to its potential health risks to human health via inhalation and ingestion. So, it is essential to investigate the variation of terrestrial gamma ray dose (TGRD) throughout different geographical conditions. The current study intends to review occurrence of TGRD across the world with different geology and geographical conditions and it may act as the baseline for the government to determine the possible environmental contamination by artificial means. High mean TGRD values have been reported in many countries such as Nigeria, Malaysia, China etc. exceeding world mean value of 59 nGy h−1. Granites dominated areas were reported to be the major source of high TGRD values in many regions. Also, the seasonal impact on TGRD distribution have been seen.