Best Mutual Funds for Long-Term Investment in India

Long-term investment involves holding assets for years or decades. This strategy leverages compounding for substantial returns, helps investors weather market volatility, and provides stability against short-term fluctuations. Mutual funds for long term investment play a crucial role in this strategy. Long-term mutual funds, including long duration debt funds and diversified portfolios, are essential for investors seeking growth. These mutual funds for long term investment typically include equities, balanced funds, or other long duration funds aimed at generating significant returns.

These investments are essential for financial planning, particularly retirement, as they offer sustained growth over time. They are also suitable for accumulating funds for education by capitalising on potential capital appreciation. For those aiming for overall wealth accumulation, mutual funds for long term investment provide consistent and steady growth. This article will explore a list of the top mutual funds for long term investment in 2024, fund overviews, and guidance on how to invest in these options.

Top 10 Long Term Mutual Funds in 2025 

The following is an educational list of the best mutual funds for long term investment, based on their 3-yr, 5-yr, and 10-yr CAGR:

Fund Name	Category	Fund Size (Rs. in Cr)	3Y CAGR (%)	5Y CAGR (%)	10Y CAGR (%)	Expense Ratio (%)
SBI PSU Fund	Thematic Fund	4,686.10	34.03	25.62	12.45	0.74
Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund	Mid Cap Fund	22,897.62	33.97	34.11	21.37	0.54
LIC MF Infra Fund	Sectoral Fund - Infrastructure	927.50	32.17	28.90	16.92	1.06
ICICI Pru Infrastructure Fund	Sectoral Fund - Infrastructure	6,989.56	32.15	30.40	16.88	1.21
Invesco India PSU Equity Fund	Thematic Fund	1,344.86	31.93	27.87	17.39	0.85
HDFC Infrastructure Fund	Sectoral Fund - Infrastructure	2,464.93	30.69	25.58	11.66	1.09
DSP India T.I.G.E.R Fund	Sectoral Fund - Infrastructure	5,515.28	30.56	29.14	17.42	0.84
Nippon India Power & Infra Fund	Sectoral Fund - Energy & Power	7,453.12	30.08	30.03	16.94	0.95
Franklin Build India Fund	Sectoral Fund - Infrastructure	2,848.49	28.68	28.23	18.56	0.94
Bandhan Infrastructure Fund	Sectoral Fund - Infrastructure	1,790.94	28.28	30.83	17.90	0.82

Disclaimer: Please note that the above table is for educational purposes only, and is not recommendatory. Please do your own research or consult your financial advisor before investing. The data is derived from Tickertape Stock Screener and is subject to real-time updates.

Note: The data on the list is from 9th January 2025. This data is derived from the Tickertape Mutual Funds Screener.

• Plan: Growth
• 3Y CAGR: Sorted from Highest to Lowest
• 5Y CAGR: Positive (Set lower limit to 0)
• 10Y CAGR: Positive (Set lower limit to 0)

🚀 Pro Tip: You can use Tickertape’s Mutual Fund Screener to research and evaluate funds with over 50+ pre-loaded filters and parameters.

Overview of the Best Long Term Mutual Funds

Here is a brief overview of the best long term investments amongst funds:

SBI PSU Fund

SBI PSU Fund is a thematic mutual fund focusing on investments in public sector undertakings (PSUs). It aims to capitalise on growth opportunities within the PSU space by investing in high-potential companies. With an asset under management (AUM) of Rs. 4,686.10 cr., the fund has demonstrated strong returns, with a 3-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 34.03%, a 5-year CAGR of 25.62%, and a 10-year CAGR of 12.45%. The fund operates with an expense ratio of 0.74%.

Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund

Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund is a mid-cap-focused mutual fund, aiming to identify and invest in mid-sized companies with strong growth potential. Its AUM stands at Rs. 22,897.62 cr., and it has achieved impressive growth rates of 33.97% CAGR over 3 years, 34.11% over 5 years, and 21.37% over 10 years. The expense ratio is 0.54%.

LIC MF Infra Fund

LIC MF Infra Fund is a sectoral fund that invests in infrastructure-related companies across various sectors. The fund’s AUM is Rs. 927.50 cr., and it has delivered a 3-year CAGR of 32.17%, a 5-year CAGR of 28.90%, and a 10-year CAGR of 16.92%. The expense ratio is 1.06%.

ICICI Prudential Infrastructure Fund

ICICI Prudential Infrastructure Fund focuses on investments in infrastructure-oriented businesses, aiming to benefit from the growth in this sector. Its AUM is Rs. 6,989.56 cr., with a 3-year CAGR of 32.15%, a 5-year CAGR of 30.40%, and a 10-year CAGR of 16.88%. The expense ratio is 1.21%.

Invesco India PSU Equity Fund

Invesco India PSU Equity Fund is a thematic fund targeting investment opportunities in public sector companies. It manages an AUM of Rs. 1,344.86 cr. and has reported a 3-year CAGR of 31.93%, a 5-year CAGR of 27.87%, and a 10-year CAGR of 17.39%. The fund’s expense ratio is 0.85%.

HDFC Infrastructure Fund

HDFC Infrastructure Fund invests in infrastructure-related companies, seeking to harness the growth in this sector. The fund’s AUM is Rs. 2,464.93 cr., with a 3-year CAGR of 30.69%, a 5-year CAGR of 25.58%, and a 10-year CAGR of 11.66%. The expense ratio is 1.09%.

DSP India T.I.G.E.R Fund

DSP India T.I.G.E.R Fund is a sectoral fund that focuses on investment in growth-oriented infrastructure companies. It has an AUM of Rs. 5,515.28 cr., and its performance includes a 3-year CAGR of 30.56%, a 5-year CAGR of 29.14%, and a 10-year CAGR of 17.42%. The expense ratio is 0.84%.

Nippon India Power & Infra Fund

Nippon India Power & Infra Fund targets investment in the energy and infrastructure sectors. With an AUM of Rs. 7,453.12 cr., it has delivered a 3-year CAGR of 30.08%, a 5-year CAGR of 30.03%, and a 10-year CAGR of 16.94%. The expense ratio is 0.95%.

Franklin Build India Fund

Franklin Build India Fund is a sectoral fund focused on infrastructure-related companies, aiming to capture growth opportunities in the industry. It manages an AUM of Rs. 2,848.49 cr., with a 3-year CAGR of 28.68%, a 5-year CAGR of 28.23%, and a 10-year CAGR of 18.56%. The fund’s expense ratio is 0.94%.

Bandhan Infrastructure Fund

Bandhan Infrastructure Fund invests in infrastructure-driven businesses to leverage growth in the sector. The fund’s AUM is Rs. 1,790.94 cr., with a 3-year CAGR of 28.28%, a 5-year CAGR of 30.83%, and a 10-year CAGR of 17.90%. The expense ratio is 0.82%.

How to Invest in Mutual Funds for the Long Term?

Investing in long-term mutual funds involves several key steps for a smooth process:

1. Open a Demat and Trading Account: A demat account holds your shares electronically, while a trading account facilitates buying and selling. You can open these accounts with a bank, brokerage firm, or through smallcase.
2. Choose a Suitable Long Term Fund: From the variety of long term investment mutual funds available, select which type of mutual fund is best for long term investment based on your investment goals and risk tolerance. Understanding this concept can guide you toward the best mutual funds to invest in 2025 for long-term growth.
3. Invest in the Fund: You can invest in your chosen fund through a bank, brokerage firm, or mutual fund house. Opt for a lump sum investment or set up a systematic investment plan (SIP) to support your mutual fund long term investment goals.
4. Monitor Your Investment: Regularly review your investment’s performance to ensure it continues to align with your objectives, making adjustments to maximise returns in the best fund for long term investment.

Following these steps will help you navigate long term investment mutual funds effectively.

What are Long Term Mutual Funds?

Long-term investment mutual funds span over three years, with equity mutual funds and hybrid funds often being among the best funds for long term investment. These long-term mutual funds generally provide higher growth potential compared to debt mutual funds and traditional savings instruments. However, like all investments, long-term mutual fund investments are subject to market risks and do not guarantee returns. Understanding which type of mutual fund is best for long term helps in making prudent choices that can withstand market fluctuations over extended periods.

How Do Long Term Investments Work?

Investors often choose long-term investments when they have surplus capital that they can leave invested for extended periods. Patience is crucial as holding periods can span decades. The power of compounding enables long-term assets to generate excellent returns. The longer the investment period, the higher the potential returns.

Retirement schemes are a common form of long-term investment driven by the need for retirement planning. Starting early allows individuals ample time to build a substantial retirement fund through compounding. Long-term investments, including the best mutual funds to invest for long term, also allow investors to take on prudent risks. Market fluctuations and risks like inflation and downturns tend to balance out over time through rupee-cost averaging. This approach ultimately leads to potentially higher overall returns and helps identify which is the best mutual fund for long term stability.

Features of the Best Mutual Fund For the Long Term

Long-term mutual funds offer distinct features that set them apart from short-term or mid-term investment options. Understanding these characteristics can help you learn how to select the top performing mutual funds and make informed decisions for long-term financial objectives:

• Long-Term Investment: Long-term mutual funds are ideal for those aiming to achieve significant goals such as retirement, a child’s education, or wedding expenses. Identifying top long term mutual funds ensures these objectives are met efficiently.
• Risk: Long-term mutual funds carry higher risks compared to short-term or medium-term funds. They are sensitive to interest rate fluctuations and face credit risk since they invest in government and corporate bonds over extended periods. Choosing the best mutual funds in india for long term can help balance these risks.
• Returns: Investing in top performing mutual funds in india for the long term can yield higher returns, potentially reaching double digits over time. Using tools like SIP and lumpsum calculators can help you estimate the performance of 10 best mutual funds over the years.

Advantages of Investing in the Best Mutual Fund For Long Term

Investing in a best growth mutual funds scheme presents a host of benefits, each catering to specific financial needs and objectives:

• Strategic Financial Planning: Long-term mutual funds with high returns necessitate strategic financial planning. By addressing future financial goals well in advance, investors lay a solid foundation for stress-free life goal achievements. With a clear roadmap, financial preparedness ensures a seamless journey toward their aspirations, backed by tools such as SIP and lumpsum mutual fund calculators for return estimation. Identifying what are the best mutual funds for long-term stability helps streamline this process.
• Harnessing the Power of Compounding: The best mutual funds to invest in 2025 for long term leverage the powerful concept of compounding, where earnings build upon prior gains. Over spans of 5, 10, or 30 years, compounding significantly multiplies returns. Systematic investment plans (SIPs) further amplify this effect, especially when investing in best mutual funds next 10 years.
• Steady Management of Market Volatility: The best mutual fund portfolio for long term investment incorporates strategies that manage market volatility effectively. Investors develop a deeper understanding of market dynamics and become less susceptible to short-term fluctuations. This leads to more stable and potentially higher returns over time when choosing best equity mutual funds for long-term growth.
• Lightening the Financial Load: Initiating investments in top 10 mutual funds early in life for significant objectives such as retirement, education, or marriage eases the financial burden. Early investments leverage the power of compounding, reducing the rupee cost and enhancing the overall returns. Furthermore, investing in best mutual funds to invest in 2025 for long-term provides a robust defence against the market’s short-term fluctuations.

How are Returns Calculated on Long Term Mutual Funds?

When evaluating the best mutual funds for long term to invest in India, understanding how returns are calculated is vital. Here’s a concise look at the process:

• Net Asset Value (NAV): NAV represents the fund’s per-unit market value. It’s calculated by deducting liabilities from the total asset value and dividing by the outstanding units. NAV is computed daily.
• Holding Period Returns: This metric assesses performance over a specific time frame. The formula is simple:

Holding Period Return (%) = [(Final NAV – Initial Investment) / Initial Investment] x 100

• Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): CAGR accounts for compounding effects, offering a more precise view of long-term performance. The formula is:

CAGR (%) = [(Ending NAV / Beginning NAV) ^ (1/n) – 1] x 100

• Total Returns: Consider all gains and income received, not just NAV appreciation. Divide this by your initial investment.
• Volatility and Risk-Adjusted Returns: Though not direct return calculations, these metrics assess a fund’s performance relative to risk levels. Sharpe ratio, Sortino ratio, and other measures offer insights.

Who Should Invest in Mutual Funds for the Long Term?

• Longer Investment Horizon: Those with an extended investment horizon will find long term growth mutual funds ideal for achieving primary life goals such as buying a house or car, funding a child’s education or wedding, building a retirement corpus, or preparing for other future expenses. Choosing which mutual fund is good for long term objectives can ensure that investors maximise potential returns.
• Seeking High Returns, Not Immediate Gains: Best long term mutual funds in India typically allocate a significant portion—around 65%—into equities. Equities often yield higher returns as markets perform well over time, making these top MF to invest in 2025 a strong choice for those seeking significant investment growth.
• Not Expecting Fixed Returns: Unlike debt funds, which offer predictable returns, long term growth mutual funds primarily invest in equities. As a result, they don’t provide fixed returns, making them more suitable for investors who don’t require regular income and want their funds to grow over a long period.

Risks of Investing in the Best Mutual Fund to Invest in Long Term

When considering long term investment in mutual fund options, evaluating the associated risks is essential. Here’s an overview of potential challenges you should be mindful of:

• Market-Linked Risks: Long term investment in mutual fund schemes, including even the best mutual funds to invest in 2025 in India for long-term, particularly those heavily invested in equities, are exposed to higher market-linked risks. The value of your investment can fluctuate significantly, influenced by the performance of the stocks within the fund. Having a good grasp of the stocks in your chosen mutual fund for long term investments is crucial.
• Return Uncertainty: Even the best mutual fund for long term investments doesn’t guarantee high returns. For instance, your long term mutual fund may experience losses in one year but perform exceptionally well the next. However, the overall yield may not be as impressive when averaged over your investment period, emphasising the importance of selecting the best mutual fund for long term.
• Redemption at Current NAV: While withdrawing from long term investment plans in India is possible, the redemption amount depends on the current net asset value (NAV). If the fund incurs losses, even if it is considered the best mutual fund for long term, these losses will be proportionally reflected in your investment corpus.

Taxation on the Best Mutual Funds for Long Term Growth as per the Union Budget 2024-25

The taxation on capital gains from your mutual fund investments are based on their holding periods and asset allocation. A few revisions were made to the tax rates, depending on their types, in the Union Budget 2024-25. In order to select the best mutual fund to invest for long term, it is important to learn about these revisions as well. They include:

Equity Mutual Funds

• Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): The gains from equity mutual funds held for less than 12 months are now taxed at 20%. This is an increase from the previous tax rate of 15%.
• Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): For equity mutual funds held for over a period of over 12 months, gains are classified as long-term capital gains. The new budget introduces these key changes to the LTCG:

1. Tax-Free Limit: The capital gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh per year are tax-free. This is an increase from the previous limit of Rs. 1 lakh.
2. Tax Rate: The gains on the best mutual funds to buy for long term exceeding Rs. 1.25 lakh are now taxed at a flat rate of 12.5%. This is an increase from the previous rate of 10%.
3. Indexation: The benefit of indexation, which allowed investors to adjust the purchase price for inflation, has been removed for all asset classes, including equity mutual funds.

Indexation was a method that allowed investors to adjust the purchase price of assets for inflation. This adjustment reduced taxable profits when selling assets like property or gold. Previously, these long-term capital gains were taxed at 20%. The new rule imposes a flat 12.5% tax on all long-term capital gains but eliminates any indexation benefits.

Capital Gains Tax	Holding Period	Old Rate	New Rate
Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG)	Less than 12 months	15%	20%
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG)	More than 12 months	10%	12.50%

Debt Mutual Funds

• Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): If you sell your debt fund units within a period of 36 months, the gains are classified as short-term capital gains. The STCG will be taxed according to your income tax slab rate.
• Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): For debt funds held for a period over 36 months, the gains are classified as long-term capital gains. The new budget outlines a few changes on the LTCG for debt funds, including:

1. Tax Rate: A flat 12.5% tax rate applies to these gains.
2. No Indexation Benefit: The previous benefit of adjusting the purchase price for inflation is removed. Now, the entire gain after three years is taxable at 12.5%.

Capital Gains Tax	Holding Period	Old Rate	New Rate
Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG)	Less than 36 months	Taxed according to your income tax slab	Taxed according to your income tax slab
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG)	More than 36 months	10%	12.50%

Hybrid Mutual Funds

Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG)

The tax on short-term capital gains depends on the fund’s asset allocation when it comes to hybrid mutual funds. Here is a breakdown of STCG tax rates according to their asset allocation in hybrid funds:

• Equity-Oriented Hybrid Funds (more than 65% in equity): The gains from units sold within 12 months are taxed at 20%.
• Debt-Oriented Hybrid Funds (less than 65% in equity): The gains from units sold within three years are taxed according to your income tax slab.

Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG)

The capital gains tax on hybrid mutual funds that extend the specified period (12 or 36 months) is known as long-term capital gain tax. The tax treatment under this condition is as follows:

• Equity-Oriented Hybrid Funds: The gains from units held for over a period of 12 months are taxed at 12.5%. The gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh are tax-free.
• Debt-Oriented Hybrid Funds: The gains from units held for over a period of 36 months are taxed at 12.5% without indexation benefits. This means the entire gain is taxed at this rate, without adjustment for inflation.

Type of Hybrid  Fund	Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG)	Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG)	Indexation Benefit
Equity-Oriented Hybrid Funds	20% for holdings less than 1 year	12.5% for holdings over 1 year, with gains up to Rs. 1.25 lakh tax-free	Not available
Debt-Oriented Hybrid Funds	Taxed as per income tax slab for holdings less than 3 years	12.5% for holdings over 3 years	Not available

Note: Mutual fund schemes where neither the equity nor debt orientation exceeds 65% will now be classified as long-term investments after 24 months. The previous holding period for these funds was 36 months. These will be taxed at the revised LTCG tax rate of 12.5%.

Differences Between Long and Short-Term Mutual Funds

The following table demonstrates a comparative analysis of long and short term investment options in mutual funds:

Aspects of Differences	Long Term Mutual Funds	Short Term Mutual Funds
Investment Horizon	Geared towards the long term, typically over several years.	Typically, it spans from a few days to three years.
Risk Tolerance	Suited for investors willing to undertake some risk, especially in equities.	Ideal for low-risk investors who prefer to avoid equities.
Wealth Creation	Long-term investments are effective for wealth creation over time.	Suitable for shorter-term financial objectives.
Goals	Ideal for retirement planning, purchasing a home, or funding children’s education.	Suitable for goals like vacations, vehicle purchases, or shorter-term financial milestones.
Investment Options	Focus on equity mutual funds, emphasising higher market exposure.	Primarily involve debt mutual funds, often surpassing fixed deposits in post-tax returns.
Taxation	Subject to capital gains taxation at the investor’s IT slab rate.	It is also subject to credit and interest rate risks and does not guarantee returns.
Liquidity	Usually less liquid as they are designed for long-term commitment.	More liquid, with options like liquid funds serving as alternatives to savings accounts.

Which Mutual Fund is Best for Long Term Investments?

Equity funds are commonly the popular choice for long term investors. Equity funds, including types of mutual funds like large caps, midcap funds, small cap mutual funds, value funds, multi-cap funds, and Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS Funds), allocate at least 65% of their assets to equities or company shares. This provides a diversified approach for small investors to own shares in multiple companies. However, this ownership entails certain risks.

In the long term, companies tend to grow and stabilise, passing on the benefits to investors. Equity markets are highly sensitive, and fluctuations can be swift. While traders may leverage short-term market movements, equity mutual fund investors often rely on fund managers for decision-making; these funds can provide substantial returns in the long term due to factors like rupee-cost averaging. However, it is essential to conduct thorough research and conduct a financial advisor before determining which mutual fund is suitable for long term investments.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Long-Term Mutual Funds

There are several key factors to consider when making informed investment decisions when selecting long term mutual funds india. Here’s a breakdown of what to keep in mind:

Investment Goals

You can begin by defining your investment objectives. Are you looking to build wealth for retirement, fund your child’s education, or achieve other financial goals? Understanding your goals helps in choosing the best funds to invest for long term that align with your needs and objectives, ensuring a suitable long term mutual fund investment strategy.

Risk Tolerance

It can be helpful to assess your risk tolerance. Long term mutual funds india can vary in risk levels. You can consider how comfortable you are with market fluctuations and choose the best mutual funds to invest in india for long term that also match your risk profile.

Fund Type

Explore the various types of long term investment in mutual fund options in India, including equity, debt, and hybrid funds. Each type serves a specific purpose. Ensure you select a fund type that matches your risk appetite and investment goals for which is best mutual fund for long term commitments.

Historical Performance

Review the fund’s historical performance. While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, it can provide insights into how the fund has fared under different market conditions. For instance, you might look into the top 10 best mutual funds or the top 5 long term mutual funds to evaluate their consistency over time.

Fund Manager Expertise

The fund manager plays a critical role in a fund’s performance. Investigate the track record and expertise of the fund manager managing the best equity mutual funds for long-term growth. This step ensures you’re entrusting your investment to a capable professional, whether it’s an equity, hybrid, or even the best consumption mutual fund.

Expense Ratio

The expense ratio impacts your returns. Lower expense ratios mean more of your investment goes toward generating returns. Compare expense ratios to make cost-effective choices.

To Wrap It Up…

In conclusion, long-term mutual funds offer an effective strategy for investors with specific long-term financial goals and risk appetites. Their potential for higher returns, coupled with the power of compounding, makes them an attractive choice for those willing to commit for the long term. However, aligning these funds with your financial objectives and carefully assessing your risk tolerance is crucial. Whether you’re planning for retirement, your child’s education, or simply looking to harness the benefits of compounding, long-term mutual funds may be a valuable addition to your investment portfolio. However, it is always recommended for investors to consult a financial advisor and conduct thorough research before investing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Long Term Mutual Funds

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