The gold price in Pakistan is hovering near historic highs in March 2026, with 24K gold trading at around Rs. 523,000 per tola as reported by the All Pakistan Sarafa Jewels Association.
International spot gold is trading above $5,000 per ounce, driven by geopolitical tensions, global inflation, and central bank buying. Whether you are a jewellery buyer, investor, or trader, this guide covers all live gold rates, city-wise prices, purity comparisons, and expert market insights you need in one place.
Today’s Gold Rate in Pakistan – March 16, 2026
Below are the latest gold rates in Pakistan as per Sarafa market for all major purities:
| Gold Purity | Per Tola (PKR) | Per 10 Grams (PKR) | Per Gram (PKR) |
| 24K (Pure Gold) | Rs. 523,000 | Rs. 448,400 | Rs. 44,840 |
| 22K Gold | Rs. 479,417 | Rs. 411,033 | Rs. 41,103 |
| 21K Gold | Rs. 457,625 | Rs. 392,350 | Rs. 39,235 |
| 18K Gold | Rs. 392,250 | Rs. 336,300 | Rs. 33,630 |
Rates are sourced from Karachi Sarafa Bazaar and may vary by Rs. 200–500 depending on city and dealer margin. Always confirm with your local jeweller before buying.
City-Wise Gold Rate in Pakistan Today
Gold prices are generally uniform across Pakistan, but minor variations exist. Here is the 24K gold rate per tola in major cities today:
| City | 24K Per Tola (PKR) | Market |
| Karachi | Rs. 523,000 | Sarafa Bazaar, Saddar |
| Lahore | Rs. 523,200 | Anarkali, Liberty Market |
| Islamabad | Rs. 523,500 | Blue Area, F-6 Markaz |
| Rawalpindi | Rs. 523,200 | Raja Bazaar |
| Peshawar | Rs. 523,400 | Qissa Khwani Bazaar |
Note: Karachi’s Sarafa Bazaar sets the daily benchmark rate, which is then adopted by bullion markets across the country.
Why Is the Gold Price in Pakistan So High in 2026?
Gold has reached record levels in Pakistan due to a combination of global and domestic factors. Here is what is driving prices up:
1. International Gold Prices Above $5,000
International spot gold has been trading above $5,000 per ounce in 2026, touching an all-time high of $5,400 in January 2026. This directly pushes up local prices in rupee terms.
2. Weak Pakistani Rupee vs US Dollar
When the rupee depreciates against the dollar, gold becomes costlier to import. The PKR/USD exchange rate remains a key driver. Even a moderate global gold movement translates into a sharp PKR price increase due to currency weakness.
3. Domestic Inflation and Safe-Haven Demand
Pakistan’s ongoing inflation pressure has pushed both households and institutional investors to park savings in gold. It is widely seen as Pakistan’s most reliable store of value against rupee devaluation.
4. Global Geopolitical Uncertainty
Ongoing tensions in the Middle East, US-China trade dynamics, and fears of a global recession are pushing investors worldwide into safe-haven assets like gold. Central banks — including the State Bank of Pakistan, have been increasing gold reserves, adding to demand.
How to Buy Gold in Pakistan – Key Tips
Buying gold in Pakistan requires care. Follow these steps to protect your money:
- Always buy from APJSA-registered jewellers or authorised dealers
- Check the daily Sarafa rate before visiting any gold shop
- Ask for a purity certificate or hallmark stamp on your gold
- Understand that making charges (Ujrat) are added on top of bullion rates
- Compare rates from at least 2–3 jewellers before finalising
- Keep your gold purchase receipt safely for future resale reference
Gold Investment Options in Pakistan in 2026
There are several ways to invest in gold in Pakistan today. Each has its own pros and cons:
| Investment Type | Description | Best For |
| Physical Gold (Jewelry) | Buy 22K/21K gold from jewellers | Wedding & gifting |
| Gold Bars & Coins (24K) | Pure bullion, easier to resell | Long-term savings |
| PMEX Gold Futures | Trade gold contracts without holding physical gold | Active traders & investors |
| Gold ETFs (Abroad) | Exchange-traded gold funds | Tech-savvy investors |
The Pakistan Mercantile Exchange (PMEX) allows Pakistanis to trade gold in PKR aligned with international prices, making it ideal for those who want exposure without the hassle of physical storage.
Understanding Gold Purity – Which Karat Should You Buy?
Gold purity is measured in karats. Here is a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- 24K Gold – 99.9% pure. Best for investment (bars and coins). Too soft for jewellery.
- 22K Gold – 91.6% pure. The most popular for Pakistani wedding jewellery. Durable and bright yellow.
- 21K Gold – 87.5% pure. Common in some Gulf-style jewellery. Slightly less yellow than 22K.
- 18K Gold – 75% pure. Used for diamond-set jewellery and intricate designs. More durable alloy.
Pro Tip: If you are buying gold purely as an investment, always choose 24K gold bars or coins. They carry the highest resale value and have no making charges.
Final Thoughts – Should You Buy Gold Right Now?
From a personal observation of Pakistan’s bullion market in 2026, gold continues to be the most trusted asset for ordinary Pakistanis. Whether it is a mother saving gold for her daughter’s wedding or an investor hedging against rupee depreciation, the yellow metal has delivered consistently.
At current levels of around Rs. 523,000 per tola, buying a large quantity in one go is risky. Market experts suggest gradual accumulation — buying small quantities monthly — as an effective strategy to average out price fluctuations.
Keep an eye on the USD/PKR exchange rate and international spot gold prices. When the dollar weakens or global uncertainty eases, gold prices may correct, offering a better entry point.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the gold price in Pakistan per tola today?
As of March 16, 2026, the 24K gold price per tola in Pakistan is approximately Rs. 523,000 as per Sarafa market rates. Prices are updated daily.
Q2: What is the gold rate per gram in Pakistan?
The 24K gold rate per gram in Pakistan is around Rs. 44,840. For 22K it is approximately Rs. 41,103 and for 21K it is around Rs. 39,235.
Q3: Why do gold prices differ between cities in Pakistan?
City-wise gold prices differ by Rs. 200–500 due to local demand, transportation costs, dealer margins, and regional taxes. Karachi typically sets the base rate daily.
Q4: Is it a good time to buy gold in Pakistan in 2026?
With gold at historic highs, financial advisors recommend gradual buying rather than lump-sum investment. Monitor USD/PKR rates and international gold price trends before deciding.
Q5: What is the international gold price today?
International spot gold is trading around $5,019–$5,064 per ounce as of mid-March 2026, consolidating above the $5,000 level after hitting an all-time high of $5,400 in January 2026.
Q6: How is the gold price in Pakistan calculated?
Pakistan’s gold price is determined by the international spot price in USD, converted using the USD/PKR exchange rate, and then adjusted for local market conditions by the All Pakistan Sarafa Jewels Association (APJSA).
Q7: Where can I get the most accurate daily gold rates in Pakistan?
The most reliable sources are: the All Pakistan Sarafa Jewels Association (APJSA), Gold.pk, Hamariweb.com/finance, and UrduPoint’s live gold rate page.
Disclaimer: Gold rates change daily. Always verify the latest rates with your local Sarafa market or APJSA before making any buying or investment decision.
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