Scattering ashes in Singapore

Death, although a macabre topic that we tend to stray away from, is perhaps the only thing that’s certain in our lives – other than the perpetually increasing GST, of course. Jokes aside, having to deal with the remains of our loved ones after they’ve passed on is a process that deserves careful consideration during end-of-life planning.

While you might be familiar with after-death services such as cremation and burial ceremonies, not many know that ash scattering is another option when it comes to honouring our beloved. Should you or a loved one wish to take this symbolic yet pragmatic approach, here’s all you need to know about scattering ashes in Singapore.

Where can I scatter ashes in Singapore?

In case it wasn’t obvious enough, in Singapore, you can’t scatter cremated ashes willy-nilly; in fact, it’s illegal to do so in unauthorised public places, and you might face fines of up to $10,000 for doing so. As such, there are 2 perfectly legal methods to scatter ashes on the Little Red Dot: inland ash scattering and scattering at sea.

Where can I do inland ash scattering?

Image credit: NEA

If you wish to scatter cremated ashes on land, also known as inland ash scattering, there are 2 designated locations in Singapore where you can do so, known as inland ash scattering facilities.

The first one can be found in Choa Chu Kang, in the Garden of Peace. Despite its location, it’s not too ulu; you can get there via buses no. 405 or 975 and alight at the Nirvana Memorial Gdn bus stop (stop ID: 31121). The Garden of Peace is just a 6-minute walk from the bus stop.

Image credit: NEA

The second is the Garden of Serenity, which can be found within the Mandai Crematorium and Columbarium Complex in Mandai, and this one’s not too hard to get to either. If you’re not driving there, simply board bus no. 171 from Yishun Bus Interchange and alight at the Mandai Crematorium & Columbarium bus stop (stop ID: 48149). The garden is right opposite the bus stop and getting there shouldn’t take you more than a minute’s walk.

Image credit: National Environment Agency via Facebook

Opened in 2021 and 2025, respectively, these inland ash scattering facilities are both managed by the National Environment Agency (NEA). In both gardens, there are spacious, designated lanes for scattering cremated ashes, which can be identified by their pebble-covered surface.

Image credit: NEA

Trees and hedges are also planted in between lanes, providing some much-needed privacy for families and setting a respectful and dignified environment for the solemn process. Speaking of which, the gardens are nicely manicured and well-kept, so feel free to roam the grounds as you see fit.

Image credit: NEA

There are some things to note and guidelines to follow should you wish to conduct inland ash scattering at these facilities, which include:

• Only the cremated ashes of deceased who are Singapore Citizens/Permanent Residents and foreigners whose immediate next-of-kin are Singapore Citizens/Permanent Residents are allowed to be scattered.
• You’ll have to turn cremated bone fragments into fine ashes in powder form before you can scatter them. You can bring cremated bone fragments to the Choa Chu Kang/Mandai Crematorium for this process at least 1 hour before your booked time for scattering.
• Once the inland ash scattering lanes reach maximum capacity due to the accumulation of ashes over time, NEA will periodically transfer ash-infused soil from the scattering lanes at the Garden of Peace and Garden of Serenity to another location within the Garden of Peace.
• Religious ceremonies are not allowed inside the gardens, such as the burning of joss sticks or paper. However, simple rites can be conducted at designated prayer facilities nearby.
• Fresh-cut flowers may be placed at NEA-provided racks, but food offerings and other objects cannot be left behind.

Before you head down to scatter cremated ashes, remember to make a booking via the NEA website by logging in with your Singpass. There is a service fee of $320, and payment for the booking will need to be made within 30 minutes of selecting your session.

Scattering at sea

Image credit: Heng Lee Boat Services Pte Ltd via Facebook

Also known as a sea burial, scattering ashes at sea is also possible off the coast of Singapore. However, sea scattering is only permitted at a designated location approximately 3.2km east of Raffles Lighthouse, from 7am to 7pm daily.  As of writing, the only way to conduct a scattering at sea is by engaging a private boat operator or funeral service provider.

Existing private sea scattering service providers like AfterlifeBro can help charter a boat which seats up to 10 family members from $280, while others can offer more comprehensive add-ons. For $740, Unity Casket has a special package which includes religious prayers or ceremonial rites, and even accommodates personalised elements chosen by the family.

Unlike inland ash scattering, you won’t need to pay the service fee of $320 for a sea burial, nor will you have to turn cremated remains into fine ash for scattering at sea.

Image credit: Singapore Funeral Committee

Interestingly, NEA has recently announced that they will be launching a 2-year pilot ferry service specifically for sea scattering, which is set to begin some time in the 2nd half of 2027. Unlike existing private charters, this new service can accommodate up to 8 bereaved families on 1 vessel, bringing down overall costs significantly.

Pasir Panjang Ferry Terminal.
Image credit: Chin Hock Yeow via Google Maps

The pilot ferry service will operate weekly from the Pasir Panjang Ferry Terminal, and up to 6 family members can attend the sea scattering per booking. A fee of just $50 per application will apply, making sea burials much more affordable. More details, such as the designated ash scattering site and booking procedures, will be released before the pilot begins next year.

You can learn more about this pilot ferry service on NEA’s website.

All you need to know about scattering ashes in Singapore

Deciding what to do with a loved one’s remains is never easy, especially if they haven’t expressed their final wishes. However, understanding the available options can make the process a little less overwhelming. As such, keep these ash scattering arrangements in mind so you and your family can make a more informed decision when the time comes.

For more guides about life in Singapore:

• Guide to the SG Child Support Package
• Guide to applying for a Lasting Power of Attorney
• Guide to planning a funeral in SG

Cover image adapted from: National Environment Agency via Facebook, Singapore Funeral Committee