Great question! Gold prices in Nepal — like elsewhere — are at or near record highs in 2024–2025, and here’s why:
Reasons Gold Price is at Record High in Nepal
1. Global Gold Price Surge
- Gold prices are soaring globally, nearing or crossing $2,300 per ounce (in 2025).
- This global rally directly affects Nepal since we import gold based on international market rates.
2. Weak Nepali Rupee (NPR) Against USD
- The gold price in Nepal is calculated in NPR, but the international price is in USD.
- When the Nepali rupee weakens (e.g., crosses Rs. 133-135/USD), gold becomes more expensive locally.
3. High Import Duties & VAT
- Nepal imposes custom duty and VAT on gold imports.
- Total import taxes can increase the local price by 10–15% or more compared to international prices.
4. Safe-Haven Demand
- In uncertain times (inflation, wars, recession fears), investors flock to safe assets like gold.
- Global tensions (Russia-Ukraine, Middle East) and economic slowdowns have pushed more people into gold.
5. Limited Supply in Nepal
- Nepal’s gold supply is regulated and limited by quotas.
- When demand is high (e.g., wedding season, festivals) and supply is limited, prices shoot up even more.
6. Inflation Hedge
- Both in Nepal and globally, inflation has been high in recent years.
- Gold is seen as a store of value, protecting against rising prices.
📈 Example
If global gold = $2,300/oz
Exchange rate = Rs. 135/USD
Then 1 tola (11.664g) ≈ Rs. 130,000+ in Nepal, even before taxes
Add duties & VAT → it can easily cross Rs. 140,000+ per tola
🔍 In Short:
Gold is expensive in Nepal right now because of:
- Global price rise
- Weak NPR
- Taxes/import duties
- High demand, limited supply
| Type | Price per Tola (11.664g) | Price per 10g |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Hallmark (24K) | Rs. 186,000 | Rs. 159,465 |
| Gold Tajabi (22K) | Rs. 184,100 | Rs. 157,870.35 |
| Silver | Rs. 1,960 | Rs. 1,680.50 |
Whether to buy or sell gold right now depends on your financial goals, holding timeline, and market perspective. Here’s a balanced breakdown to help you decide:
🛍️ Buy Gold If:
- You’re investing long-term (5+ years)
Gold can still rise further due to global uncertainties, inflation, and currency devaluation. - You want a hedge against inflation or market volatility
Gold acts as a safe-haven asset in global crises. - You’re building a diversified portfolio
Gold (5–10% of your portfolio) offers protection in market downturns. - You believe geopolitical tensions will continue
Wars, elections, and banking instability fuel gold demand.
💰 Sell Gold If:
- You bought at a much lower price and want to book profits
If you’re sitting on significant gains, this might be a good time to lock in profits. - You need cash/liquidity for other investments or needs
Gold prices are at a record — great opportunity to convert into cash or invest elsewhere. - You think the price has peaked (technically or sentimentally)
Some investors expect correction after a sharp rally.
📈 Expert Tip:
If you’re unsure, consider partial selling — book some profits now and hold the rest for further upside.