OBJECTIVES: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a distinct and rare form of stroke affecting young adults and children. CVT is characterised by thrombosis of the cranial venous sinuses and cerebral cortical veins.  CVT has a varied clinical presentation, imaging findings and outcomes. The aim of this study was to estimate the direct economic costs of patients with CVT. METHODS: This was an observational study based on the medical bills of 48 patients diagnosed with CVT in the year 2015. Medical bills were obtained from the finance department and patient demographics from the hospital records.   RESULTS: Mean age was found to be 34.42 ± 12.57 years [Mean ± SD].  Gender-wise distribution showed male dominance:  37 (77%) male Vs.  11 (23%) female. Average length of hospitalization was 12 days.  Investigation charges constituted the greatest proportion of the medical bill (Indian rupees [INR] 12568.44 ± 6404.94) followed by medication charges (INR 9575.98 ± 7491.20), nursing charges (INR 2004.26 ± 1789.03), doctors’ fees (INR 1927.71 ± 1255.57), and physiotherapy charges (INR 429 ± 523.75). The total cost incurred by patients was INR 31367.27 ± 18492.96 and only 11 (23%)  patients were covered under various insurance schemes. (1 US$ = 67 INR). CONCLUSIONS: Investigation charges and medication costs constitute the bulk of expenditure incurred by CVT patients.  The cost analysis is of foremost importance in healthcare policy and decision making.  The direct costs, in the context of poor insurance cover, poses a greater burden on the individual’s family and the society in general because CVT affects younger individuals with greater potential for productivity.