How much does a funeral cost in Delhi?
The funeral cost in Delhi depends on the family's choices more than anything else: the type of cremation or burial, how much is arranged through a provider, the rites that follow, and the size of the gatherings. The core crematorium charges at municipal grounds are modest. Most of the spend sits around them.
In our survey of 10 Delhi NCR funeral service providers, carried out by Eternal Repos as primary research, common all-inclusive quotes ranged from ₹14,500 to ₹30,000. What each one included differed a great deal, so a lower figure is not always the simpler choice, and a higher one is not always better care.
A few things move the total more than others: whether the farewell happens the same day or a day or two later, which means a freezer box; the distance between home, hospital and cremation ground; the type of cremation; and how many people will gather afterwards. Night hours and travel outside the city can also add to transport charges. Knowing this helps you see where choices matter, and where they do not.
What are the crematorium charges in Delhi?
In September 2024, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi ordered uniform rates at all cremation grounds under its jurisdiction, after complaints that some were overcharging, as reported by PTI. The rates include:
- Electric cremation: free at MCD grounds since 1 June 2026 under a two-year pilot (₹500 before that).
- CNG cremation: free at MCD grounds since 1 June 2026 under the same pilot (capped at ₹1,500 before that).
- Fuel wood: ₹700 per quintal (100 kg).
- Pandit services for the last rites: ₹500.
- Collection of ashes (asthi): ₹350.
- Maintenance: ₹150.
- Child burial: ₹300.
- MCD's own vehicle for carrying a loved one to the ground: ₹500 within MCD limits and ₹800 beyond.
A wood pyre commonly needs around 400 to 600 kg of wood, according to a 2023 Scroll report. At the MCD rate, that would come to roughly ₹2,800 to ₹4,200 for wood alone. Our guide to electric, CNG and wood cremation in Delhi explains the difference between them.
MCD crematoria are run by NGOs assigned by the corporation, and a board showing the rates must be displayed outside. Grounds managed by trusts, and those in Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad, set their own charges through local bodies or managing committees. Rates can change, so always check the board or ask at the office before paying.
What else do families typically pay for?
Beyond the crematorium itself, most families pay for some or all of the following. Figures from our survey are marked; others come from published reports and will vary by provider and family.
- Samagri (ghee, herbs and ritual items): around ₹2,000 to ₹3,000, according to the 2023 Scroll report, depending on quantity and quality.
- Shroud and garlands: the same report put a shroud at around ₹600 to ₹800. Flowers vary by season.
- Pandit dakshina: MCD's rate for pandit services at its crematoria is ₹500. Families often give more at their own wish, and rates for later rites differ.
- Transport of your loved one within Delhi NCR: ₹3,000 to ₹12,000 in our survey of Delhi NCR providers, depending on distance, vehicle and timing.
- Freezer box (ice box), when the farewell is a day or more away: ₹4,000 to ₹7,000 in our survey of Delhi NCR providers.
- Tips to staff and helpers at the ground, which are customary in many places.
What does a burial cost in Delhi NCR?
Burial charges are set by whoever manages the burial ground, so they differ from place to place. Ask the committee or office directly, and ask for a receipt.
According to the same PTI report, the MCD oversees nine Muslim graveyards and four Christian burial grounds, alongside its crematoria, and its 2024 rate list includes ₹300 for a child's burial. Many graveyards and cemeteries are managed by waqf boards, churches or community committees, which set their own fees for the grave, its preparation and upkeep. Families also usually pay for the shroud or coffin, and for transport. Our guides to a Muslim funeral in Delhi NCR and a Christian funeral in Delhi NCR explain what to expect.
What do the rites and gatherings after the cremation cost?
These costs vary the most, because they depend entirely on your family's traditions and the size of the gathering. There are no reliable typical figures, so get quotes.
- Asthi visarjan: travel to Haridwar or another sacred place, and the priest's dakshina, which can range from a token amount to several thousand rupees.
- Prayer hall for a prayer meeting or shok sabha: charges depend on the venue, its size and the time slot.
- Tea, refreshments or a meal for guests, and hall decoration with flowers.
- The rites of the 13 days after a death, where these are followed, including food for guests and offerings.
- Printed or published obituaries and tributes.
Some families feel pressure to hold large feasts or give expensive offerings. Many communities and faith leaders support simpler observance. It is your family's decision.
How can families avoid pressure and surprise charges?
Ask for an itemised quote in writing before agreeing to anything, and take a few minutes to read it. A good provider will never rush you to decide.
- Be cautious of anyone who approaches you at the hospital or mortuary gate offering services.
- Ask what is included and what is extra. Wood, samagri, pandit, staff and vehicle waiting time are common add-ons.
- At MCD crematoria, check the displayed rate board and ask for a receipt for every payment.
- Let one calm family member, ideally not the closest mourner, handle money and paperwork.
- You can say no to anything you did not ask for. Grief is not a reason to accept extras.
- If something feels wrong, pause and call someone you trust.
What questions should you ask any funeral provider?
These questions help you compare providers fairly and understand exactly what you are paying for.
- Can you give me an itemised quote in writing?
- What exactly is included, and what would cost extra?
- Are crematorium fees, wood and samagri included, or paid separately at the ground?
- How is the transport charge worked out: distance, time or a flat amount?
- Is there a charge for waiting time, night hours or travel outside the city?
- Who will be with us on the day, and how do we reach them?
- Can you follow our family's specific traditions?
- Do you give receipts for every payment?
- What is your cancellation or refund policy?