New Delhi, April 22 -- For many pilgrims, cost is one of the crucial factor to decide whether to do Hajj or Umrah. While both involve travel to the holy city of Mecca, Hajj is far more expensive, whereas Umrah is comparatively lighter on the pocket.

Hajj is one of Islam's main pillars and a religious duty for all Muslims who are physically and financially able to go. Umrah, on the other hand, is not one of the pillars of Islam. It is a recommended practice (called a Sunna) and is not mandatory. Though Umrah is still a kind of religious obligation, it is not compulsory like Hajj.

Hajj is significantly more expensive because it takes place on fixed peak-season dates, lasts for two to three weeks and involves high-demand infrastructure (te...