Shanti Sthaan Crematorium

Cremation facilities in India often lack comprehensive design, planning and engineering. In Gurugram, the need for a thoughtfully designed and sustainable crematorium has become evident considering the city’s evolving urban landscape. To address this, DLF Foundation, in partnership with Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP), is developing a well-designed eco-friendly crematorium namely Shanti Sthaan on a 6.26-acre site in Sector 72A, Gurugram. Intended to set a new benchmark for cremation facilities in the country, the master plan of the crematorium has been thoughtfully designed to incorporate all services and facilities as per religious traditions. The crematorium is equipped with an eco-friendly mix of CNG and Mokshda pyres along with dedicated gathering pavilion for each pyre, providing respect and privacy during last rites.

The architectural and engineering design integrates sustainable technologies within a serene environment. The crematorium, planned to minimise environmental impact, employs advanced systems for minimised smoke and eco-conscious waste processing. This ethos is further expressed through the selection of natural, earthy building materials and the incorporation of extensive landscaped green spaces.

The construction of Phase 1 is nearing completion. Phase 1 of the project includes the development of four CNG and two wood-based Mokshda pyres along with a dedicated children's burial ground. All common infrastructure and services for Phase 1 have been completed, including the development of pyres, navgraha vatika, waiting halls, parking, administrative block, preparatory pavilion as well as designated facility for ash collection and bathing. To enhance user convenience, the crematorium has been equipped with drinking water stations, wayfinding signages and other necessary amenities.

The CNG pyres use low-pollutant fuel, while the elevated wood-fired pyres require 50% less firewood than traditional open-air pyres. Both pyre types feature emission control systems that drastically reduce particulate matter and harmful gases. Effluents are also treated in a custom-designed treatment plant and the rainwater is harvested to recharge the water table, making Shanti Sthaan a benchmark project in environmentally sustainable civic amenity in India.

Shanti Sthaan’s architecture intentionally prioritises landscape over edifice. The master plan is organised sectorally to maximise land efficiency, serviceability and scalability and successfully allocates ample space for plantations of robust native flora and ground cover, ensuring year-round greenery and low dust levels.

Just as it is committed to the diversity of Dharmic traditions, Shanti Sthaan’s design is committed to universal accessibility. The entire facility is wheelchair accessible and all common areas and signages are designed to cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities and people of all ages.

Once completed, the crematorium will be handed over to the Government in FY 2025-26 and will then be opened to the public.