Bone marrow transplant cost in Bangalore varies widely — and choosing the wrong hospital can cost your family lakhs more than necessary. Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital Bangalore has one of South India’s most established Bone Marrow Transplant units — with autologous BMT starting from ₹12 lakh, a dedicated ultramodern BMT centre, and an in-house blood bank. This is everything you need to know before choosing a hospital for your bone marrow transplant in Bangalore.
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📋 Table of Contents
- The Day a Family from Tumkur Found Hope
- What Is a Bone Marrow Transplant?
- The Three Types of BMT — and Why Cost Differs
- BMT at Sri Shankara — Unit, Team & Costs
- BMT Costs at Other Major Bangalore Hospitals
- Side-by-Side Comparison Table
- What Affects Your Final BMT Bill?
- BMT for International Patients in Bangalore
- Step-by-Step: How to Plan Your BMT
- Am I Eligible for BMT?
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. The Day a Family from Tumkur Found Hope
Raju was 29 years old when his father was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia — a blood cancer that moves fast and shows no mercy.
The family was from Tumkur, about 70 kilometres from Bangalore. When the oncologist said the words “bone marrow transplant,” Raju had no idea what it meant. He just knew it sounded expensive. Very expensive.
He spent three nights searching on his phone. Every result scared him more than the last. “₹25 lakh.” “₹35 lakh.” “₹40 lakh.” One website quoted ₹55 lakh for an unrelated donor transplant.
Then someone in a Facebook group for leukaemia patients mentioned Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital in Basavanagudi, Bangalore. They said the hospital had a dedicated BMT unit. They said the costs were among the lowest at any specialist cancer hospital in South India. They said the team was experienced, compassionate, and that the hospital had financial aid for patients who needed it.
Raju booked an OPD appointment the next morning. That was the day things changed.
“Over 90,000 patients have been treated at Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre — with thousands receiving free or subsidised care through our social welfare programme.” — SSCHRC Official Brochure
This guide is for every family like Raju’s. We break down the real costs at Sri Shankara, compare them honestly with other major hospitals in Bangalore, and explain exactly what to do next — step by step.
2. What Is a Bone Marrow Transplant?
Your bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue inside your bones. It is your body’s blood factory — producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets every single day. When this factory fails — because of cancer, a genetic disorder, or damage from chemotherapy — a bone marrow transplant gives your body a new factory.
Stem cells (the building blocks of blood) are collected — either from your own body or from a donor — and infused into your bloodstream. These cells travel to your bones and begin producing healthy blood.
Conditions treated with BMT at Sri Shankara, Bangalore:
3. The Three Types of BMT — and Why Cost Differs
The type of transplant your doctor recommends is the single biggest factor in your total cost. Here are the three main types in plain language:
Autologous BMT
Your own stem cells are collected, stored, then reinfused after high-dose chemotherapy. No donor needed.
Used for: Multiple myeloma, Lymphoma
💰 Most affordable option
Allogeneic BMT (Matched Sibling)
Stem cells from a matched family member — usually a sibling — after HLA typing. Most common for leukaemia.
Used for: Leukaemia, Aplastic anaemia, Thalassaemia
💰 Mid-range cost
Haploidentical / Unrelated Donor
Half-matched (parent/child) or registry donor when no matched sibling is available. Most complex procedure.
Used for: When no matched sibling exists
💰 Highest cost
4. Bone Marrow Transplant Cost in Bangalore — Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital
Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Basavanagudi has a dedicated Haemato-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Centre — one of the most established BMT units at any dedicated cancer hospital in South India. The programme covers both adult and paediatric BMT, led by an experienced team of specialist haematologists and transplant physicians.
What Makes SSCHRC’s BMT Unit Stand Out
- Dedicated ultramodern BMT centre with in-house blood bank and blood irradiator — critical for preventing transfusion-related complications
- HEPA-filtered transplant rooms for infection control during the immune-suppressed phase
- State-of-the-art HLA typing laboratory and molecular diagnostics on-site
- Round-the-clock trained BMT nursing staff
- Apheresis services provided by the in-house blood bank team
- On-site nephrology, ICU, gastroenterology, and neurology support for managing complications
- Dedicated 40-bedded Paediatric Oncology Centre with its own BMT unit for children
- Active research programme — over 320 published studies
Lead BMT Physician: Dr. Nataraj KS
The BMT programme at Sri Shankara is led by Dr. Nataraj KS — Head of Department, Senior Consultant Hematologist and Hemato-Oncologist with over 12 years of specialised experience in blood cancers and stem cell transplantation at SSCHRC.
💰 Approximate BMT Costs at Sri Shankara Bangalore (2026)
| Transplant Type | Approx. Cost (₹) | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Autologous BMT | ₹12 – ₹18 lakh | $14,400 – $21,600 |
| Allogeneic BMT (matched sibling) | ₹18 – ₹25 lakh | $21,600 – $30,000 |
| Haploidentical BMT | ₹22 – ₹30 lakh | $26,400 – $36,000 |
| Unrelated Donor (MUD) BMT | ₹30 – ₹40 lakh | $36,000 – $48,000 |
| HLA Typing (per person) | ₹8,000 – ₹15,000 | $96 – $180 |
| Bone Marrow Biopsy | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 | $36 – $72 |
| PET-CT Scan (pre-transplant) | ₹12,000 (fixed) | ~$144 |
* Estimates only. Final costs depend on cancer type, stage, room category, duration of stay, complications, and medications. Free and subsidised treatment available for eligible patients. Speak to SSCHRC’s social work department on arrival.
Sri Shankara has a long tradition of providing free and heavily subsidised treatment. Ayushman Bharat and Karnataka government insurance schemes are accepted. Over 90,000 patients have been treated here — thousands at reduced or no cost. If cost is a concern, speak to the hospital’s social work team before assuming you cannot afford treatment.
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5. BMT Costs at Other Major Hospitals in Bangalore
A complete comparison requires honest data on what the same procedure costs at other leading hospitals. Here is what we found:
🏥 Manipal Hospitals Bangalore
One of India’s largest multi-specialty networks. Strong BMT programme at Old Airport Road and Hebbal campuses. Dedicated international patient services.
Autologous BMT: ₹20 – ₹25 lakh
Allogeneic BMT: ₹25 – ₹32 lakh
✅ Strong for international patients
🏥 HCG Cancer Centre Bangalore
India’s largest dedicated cancer network. Kalinga Rao Road campus is a preferred hub for African and Middle Eastern medical tourists.
Autologous BMT: ₹18 – ₹24 lakh
Allogeneic BMT: ₹24 – ₹30 lakh
✅ Dedicated cancer hospital
🏥 Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta Rd
JCI accredited. India’s most internationally recognised hospital brand. BMT unit with expertise in autologous transplants for myeloma and lymphoma.
Autologous BMT: ₹18 – ₹22 lakh
Allogeneic BMT: ₹28 – ₹35 lakh
⚠️ Premium pricing
🏥 BGS Gleneagles Bangalore
NABH accredited. Known for organ transplants and haematology. Located in Kengeri, well connected to Mysore Road.
Autologous BMT: ₹15 – ₹20 lakh
Allogeneic BMT: ₹22 – ₹28 lakh
✅ Good mid-range option
🏥 Aster CMI Hospital Hebbal
Fast-growing North Bangalore multi-specialty hospital. Growing haematology programme, convenient for patients arriving from the airport.
Autologous BMT: ₹16 – ₹20 lakh
Allogeneic BMT: ₹22 – ₹28 lakh
ℹ️ Growing programme
6. Side-by-Side Comparison — All Bangalore BMT Hospitals
| Hospital | Auto BMT (₹) | Allo BMT (₹) | Cancer Focus | Free Aid | Intl Patients |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Sri Shankara (SSCHRC) | ₹12–18L | ₹18–25L | ✅ Dedicated | ✅ Strong | ✅ Strong |
| HCG Cancer Centre | ₹18–24L | ₹24–30L | ✅ Dedicated | Limited | ✅ Strong |
| Manipal Hospitals | ₹20–25L | ₹25–32L | ❌ Multi-sp. | Limited | ✅ Strong |
| Apollo Bangalore | ₹18–22L | ₹28–35L | ❌ Multi-sp. | Limited | ✅ Strong |
| BGS Gleneagles | ₹15–20L | ₹22–28L | ❌ Multi-sp. | Limited | ⚠️ Limited |
| Aster CMI | ₹16–20L | ₹22–28L | ❌ Multi-sp. | Limited | ⚠️ Limited |
| USA / UK (for context) | ₹80–120L | ₹120–200L | — | — | — |
7. What Affects Your Final BMT Bill?
Many patients are surprised when the final bill differs from the initial estimate. Here are the key factors — so you are never caught off guard:
Transplant Type
An unrelated donor MUD transplant can cost 3× more than an autologous transplant. This single decision is the biggest cost driver.
Duration of Hospital Stay
BMT requires 3–6 weeks in a sterile isolation ward. Room category (general / semi-private / private) changes the daily rate significantly.
Complications
GVHD (graft-versus-host disease), infections, or organ involvement can extend the stay and require very expensive antifungal and antiviral medications.
Pre-Transplant Workup
HLA typing, PET-CT (₹12,000 at Shankara — one of lowest in Bangalore), bone marrow biopsy, organ function tests, and infectious disease screening all add to costs before the transplant itself begins.
Post-Transplant Monitoring
After discharge, regular OPD visits, immunosuppressant medications, and blood tests are needed for up to 24 months. These ongoing costs are often not included in the initial estimate.
8. BMT for International Patients — Nigeria, Kenya, Bangladesh, UAE, Oman
Bangalore has emerged as one of Asia’s top destinations for bone marrow transplants. Patients from Nigeria, Kenya, Bangladesh, the UAE, and Oman are increasingly choosing Bangalore over the UK, USA, and Singapore — for one simple reason: the same quality at a fraction of the cost.
What International Patients Need to Know
- Medical visa: India offers a dedicated MED visa for treatment travel. Doctor Visit Bangalore provides the invitation letter and documentation support.
- Accommodation: Sri Shankara operates the Lakshmi Home Stay — dedicated lodging right next to the hospital for patients and families, far cheaper than a hotel.
- Language: English-language support available throughout. Arabic and Swahili translators can be arranged.
- Coordination: Doctor Visit Bangalore handles everything on the ground — appointment booking, report forwarding, cost estimates, accommodation, and discharge follow-up. Completely free of charge.
9. Step-by-Step: How to Plan Your Bone Marrow Transplant in Bangalore
Send Your Medical Reports
Collect all existing records — bone marrow biopsy, blood tests, previous treatment history, diagnosis letters — and WhatsApp them to us on +91 78920 28951.
Get a Pre-Assessment
We forward your reports to the haematology team. The specialist will review and confirm whether you are a BMT candidate and which type is recommended.
Receive Written Cost Estimate
Based on the recommended transplant type, you receive a written estimate for financial planning and insurance claims.
Book OPD Consultation
We book your appointment with Dr. Nataraj KS or the appropriate specialist. We help you prepare all reports in the right format before the visit.
Donor HLA Typing
For allogeneic transplants, potential donors (siblings, parents) undergo HLA blood testing at the hospital to confirm compatibility.
Conditioning & Transplant
High-dose chemotherapy destroys existing bone marrow. Stem cells are then infused. This phase requires full hospitalisation in the BMT unit — typically 3–6 weeks.
Recovery & Long-Term Monitoring
After discharge, regular outpatient follow-up is required for 12–24 months. SSCHRC’s physiotherapy, nutrition, and psycho-oncology teams are involved from Day 1.
📲 Ready to start? Send your reports now.
WhatsApp your diagnosis reports to us — we’ll respond within hours, free of charge.
10. Am I Eligible for Bone Marrow Transplant?
Not every blood cancer patient automatically qualifies for BMT. Eligibility is assessed by the SSCHRC haematology team based on your specific situation:
✅ Generally Good Candidates
- Leukaemia in remission after chemotherapy
- Multiple myeloma requiring consolidation
- Non-Hodgkin or Hodgkin lymphoma
- Aplastic anaemia unresponsive to medication
- Thalassaemia or sickle cell disease
- Good general health and organ function
- Age under 65 (flexible based on fitness)
⚠️ May Not Qualify
- Advanced metastatic disease (usually systemic treatment instead)
- Severe heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease
- Active uncontrolled infection
- Disease that has not responded to any prior therapy
- Very advanced age with multiple co-morbidities
The decision is always made by the SSCHRC haematology team after reviewing your complete blood work, biopsy, imaging, and clinical history. There is no one-size-fits-all answer — which is exactly why the consultation is the essential first step.
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11. Frequently Asked Questions
Is bone marrow transplant available at Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital Bangalore?
Yes. SSCHRC has a fully operational dedicated Haemato-Oncology and BMT Centre for both adult and paediatric patients. It is one of the most established BMT units at any dedicated cancer hospital in South India, led by Dr. Nataraj KS.
What is the minimum cost of BMT in Bangalore?
An autologous BMT at Sri Shankara starts from approximately ₹12 lakh — making it among the most affordable BMT options at a specialist cancer hospital in Bangalore.
Is BMT covered under Ayushman Bharat at Sri Shankara?
Yes. Sri Shankara accepts Ayushman Bharat and Karnataka government insurance schemes. Speak to the hospital’s social work team about eligibility and how to apply for financial assistance.
How long does the entire BMT process take?
From the pre-transplant workup to hospital discharge, the process takes approximately 6–10 weeks. Post-transplant follow-up continues for 12–24 months with regular outpatient visits.
Can a parent donate for a bone marrow transplant?
Yes. Haploidentical transplants using a parent as a half-matched donor are available at Sri Shankara. This option is increasingly used when no fully matched sibling donor is available.
Can international patients get BMT at Sri Shankara?
Yes, with coordination. Sri Shankara’s standalone international services are more limited than Apollo or Manipal, but Doctor Visit Bangalore provides full end-to-end coordination for international patients — from medical visa support to accommodation at Lakshmi Home Stay to post-discharge follow-up. WhatsApp us at +91 78920 28951.
What is the Lakshmi Home Stay at Sri Shankara?
Lakshmi Home Stay is a dedicated lodging facility operated by Sri Shankara, located adjacent to the hospital, specifically for outstation patients and their caregivers. It significantly reduces accommodation costs and keeps families close to the patient during the long BMT inpatient period.
How do I book a BMT consultation at Sri Shankara?
Call the hospital at +91 90605 21000, or WhatsApp Doctor Visit Bangalore at +91 78920 28951. We will book your appointment with the haematology department, help you organise your reports, and guide you through the full process — completely free of charge.
Final Word
Raju’s father had his bone marrow transplant at Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital. The total cost — including conditioning chemotherapy, the transplant itself, and 28 days inpatient — came to ₹16 lakh, covered partly by Ayushman Bharat and partly through the hospital’s financial assistance programme.
Today, his father is in remission. Last Diwali, Raju sent us a photo — his father standing at the hardware shop counter in Tumkur, smiling.
If you or someone you love is facing a bone marrow transplant diagnosis — do not let the fear of cost stop you from taking the first step. Bangalore has some of Asia’s finest BMT facilities. Sri Shankara is among the most affordable, most experienced, and most compassionate. And Doctor Visit Bangalore is here to walk with you, from the first phone call to the day you go home.
For any family researching bone marrow transplant cost in Bangalore, the most important decision is not just the cost — it is choosing a hospital with the right experience, the right team, and the right support system. Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital delivers all three at the most affordable price in the city.
The first step costs nothing. Just reach out.
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Sources: Sri Shankara Cancer Hospitals official website (shankaracancerhospitals.org), Dr. Nataraj KS official website, Credihealth BMT Cost Bangalore, ImpactGuru BMT India 2025, WellnessDestinationIndia BMT Cost India 2025, Manipal Hospitals official site, HCG Oncology official site, HOSPIDIO BMT India.
This page follows the Doctor Visit Bangalore Editorial Policy. Information is reviewed regularly and updated for accuracy. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a qualified haematologist or oncologist.
Arman Ali is the founder of Doctor Visit Bangalore, a trusted healthcare navigation platform helping patients find verified doctors, hospitals, and specialists across Bangalore and all over in India. With hands-on experience in healthcare research and patient assistance, Arman has personally helped hundreds of domestic and international patients connect with leading hospitals including Apollo, Manipal, Fortis, and Aster. His content is grounded in real hospital data, treatment cost research, and direct coordination with medical professionals across Bangalore. He specializes in medical tourism guidance, treatment cost transparency, and specialist discovery for complex conditions including cancer, cardiac surgery, and orthopedic care.