How Much Does a Tattoo Cost in India?
Tattoo pricing in India varies widely depending on size, city, design complexity, and artist experience. A small minimalist tattoo in a Tier 2 city can start around ₹1,500. A large, highly detailed colour piece by an expert artist in Mumbai or Bangalore can cross ₹30,000 or more.
Most professional tattoo studios in India also have a minimum session charge. Even the smallest tattoo usually costs at least ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 because of setup time, hygiene materials, and artist time.
If you are asking "how much does a tattoo cost in India", the honest answer is this: it depends on what you choose. That is exactly why this calculator exists.
Tattoo Cost by City in India (2026)
Tattoo prices differ significantly across Indian cities. Metro cities typically have higher studio rents, stronger demand, and more senior artists, which affects pricing. Tattoo prices also vary on demand, studio standards, and artist experience. The table below shows typical starting ranges for small, medium, and large tattoos across major cities in India.
How to Read This Table
- Small tattoos usually reflect minimum studio pricing.
- Medium tattoos depend heavily on design complexity.
- Large tattoos vary significantly based on detail and colour.
- 10 inch plus tattoos are often multi-session projects, which is why pricing spans a wider range.
| City | Small Tattoo (Up to 2") | Medium Tattoo (2–5") | Large Tattoo (5–10") | Large 10"+ Pieces |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ahmedabad | ₹900 - ₹2,300 | ₹1,800 - ₹4,500 | ₹3,600 - ₹9,000 | ₹5,400 - ₹27,000+ |
| Bengaluru | ₹1,000 - ₹2,500 | ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 | ₹4,000 - ₹10,000 | ₹6,000 - ₹30,000+ |
| Chandigarh | ₹1,000 - ₹2,500 | ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 | ₹4,000 - ₹10,000 | ₹6,000 - ₹30,000+ |
| Chennai | ₹1,000 - ₹2,400 | ₹1,900 - ₹4,800 | ₹3,800 - ₹9,500 | ₹5,700 - ₹28,500+ |
| Coimbatore | ₹800 - ₹2,000 | ₹1,600 - ₹4,000 | ₹3,200 - ₹8,000 | ₹4,800 - ₹24,000+ |
| Delhi and NCR | ₹1,200 - ₹3,000 | ₹2,400 - ₹6,000 | ₹4,800 - ₹12,000 | ₹7,200 - ₹36,000+ |
| Goa | ₹1,100 - ₹2,800 | ₹2,200 - ₹5,600 | ₹4,500 - ₹11,200 | ₹6,700 - ₹33,600+ |
| Hyderabad | ₹1,000 - ₹2,400 | ₹1,900 - ₹4,800 | ₹3,800 - ₹9,500 | ₹5,700 - ₹28,500+ |
| Jaipur | ₹900 - ₹2,100 | ₹1,700 - ₹4,300 | ₹3,400 - ₹8,500 | ₹5,100 - ₹25,500+ |
| Kochi | ₹900 - ₹2,300 | ₹1,800 - ₹4,500 | ₹3,600 - ₹9,000 | ₹5,400 - ₹27,000+ |
| Kolkata | ₹900 - ₹2,100 | ₹1,700 - ₹4,300 | ₹3,400 - ₹8,500 | ₹5,100 - ₹25,500+ |
| Lucknow | ₹800 - ₹2,000 | ₹1,600 - ₹4,000 | ₹3,200 - ₹8,000 | ₹4,800 - ₹24,000+ |
| Ludhiana | ₹800 - ₹2,000 | ₹1,600 - ₹4,000 | ₹3,200 - ₹8,000 | ₹4,800 - ₹24,000+ |
| Mumbai | ₹1,300 - ₹3,100 | ₹2,500 - ₹6,300 | ₹5,000 - ₹12,500 | ₹7,500 - ₹37,500+ |
| Navi Mumbai | ₹1,100 - ₹2,700 | ₹2,200 - ₹5,400 | ₹4,300 - ₹10,800 | ₹6,500 - ₹32,400+ |
| Pune | ₹1,000 - ₹2,500 | ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 | ₹4,000 - ₹10,000 | ₹6,000 - ₹30,000+ |
| Surat | ₹900 - ₹2,100 | ₹1,700 - ₹4,300 | ₹3,400 - ₹8,500 | ₹5,100 - ₹25,500+ |
What Affects Tattoo Pricing in India?
Tattoo pricing is not random. It follows clear factors that influence how much time and skill are required.
Tattoo Size
Size is the biggest driver of cost. Larger tattoos require more time, more ink, and more physical effort from the artist. A 10-inch piece can take multiple sessions, which increases the total cost significantly.
Colour vs Black and Grey
Colour tattoos usually cost more than black and grey. Colour requires multiple passes, blending work, and more ink usage. In many Indian studios, colour tattoos can cost 1.5 to 2 times more than black and grey versions of the same design.
Design Style
A simple name or minimal line tattoo costs less than a detailed mandala, tribal piece, or portrait. Realism and portrait work demand precision and advanced skill, which increases pricing.
Detail Level
Even within the same design type, detail changes everything. Fine shading, intricate linework, gradients, and micro-details increase chair time. More time equals higher cost.
Artist Experience
An expert tattoo artist with years of experience, awards, or a strong portfolio typically charges more than a beginner artist. Many customers prefer paying more for experience because tattoos are permanent.
Studio Standards
Studios with strict hygiene protocols, high-quality equipment, premium inks, and comfortable environments often charge more. In tattooing, cheaper is not always better.
Hidden Tattoo Costs Most First-Timers Miss
When budgeting for a tattoo, most people only think about the session price. There are a few additional costs worth considering.
Aftercare Products
A new tattoo needs proper care for 2 to 4 weeks. You may need antibacterial ointment, healing moisturiser, protective wraps, and sunscreen for long-term protection. Aftercare supplies can cost between ₹1,200 and ₹2,100 depending on what you buy.
Touch-Up Sessions
Many tattoos require a touch-up within 3 to 6 months. Some studios include one free touch-up, while others charge separately. Paid touch-ups often cost 30 to 50 percent of the original tattoo price.
Design Changes
If you significantly change the design after consultation, some studios may adjust the pricing because it affects preparation time and complexity.
Understanding these factors helps you avoid surprises and budget confidently.
Is a Tattoo Worth the Price?
A tattoo is permanent. It stays with you for life.
Choosing a tattoo based purely on the cheapest price can lead to regret, poor linework, fading, or the need for costly cover-ups later. Investing in a skilled artist and a good studio often saves money in the long run.
Think of a tattoo as long-term art on your body. Quality matters.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tattoo Costs in India
Most small tattoos in India cost between ₹1,500 and ₹5,000 depending on the city and studio.
Studio rent, artist demand, local competition, and city lifestyle all affect pricing. Metro cities typically have higher rates.
Yes. Colour tattoos usually cost significantly more than black and grey because they require more time and ink.
Per hour rates vary widely, but experienced artists in major cities often charge higher hourly fees compared to smaller towns, often 1.5-2.5x.
Some studios include GST in the final quote, while others add it separately. It is always good to confirm during consultation.
Most professional studios have a minimum charge, typically between ₹1,500 and ₹2,500.
Many tattoos require minor touch-ups within a few months to maintain sharpness and colour vibrancy.
Ready to Find a Studio?
Now that you have an estimate, explore tattoo studios in your city and compare artists, styles, and portfolios before booking your session.
Choosing the right studio is just as important as choosing the right design.