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Gold Rate Today in India: Latest 22K, 24K & 18K Gold Prices - 21 January 2026

Gold prices in India have witnessed a significant surge on 21 January 2026, continuing the upward trend that has characterized the precious metal's performance since the beginning of the year. The current gold rate today in India stands at ₹14,378 per gram for 24 karat gold, ₹13,180 per gram for 22 karat gold, and ₹10,784 per gram for 18 karat gold. This sharp increase reflects both global market dynamics and domestic demand factors, making it essential for buyers and investors to stay updated with the latest gold rates.

Today's Gold Rate in India - Quick Overview

Note: Rates are indicative and exclude GST (3%), making charges, and local taxes.

Gold Rate Today 24 Carat in Major Indian Cities

The gold rate today 24 carat varies across different cities due to local taxes, transportation costs, and state-specific levies. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of gold prices across 15 major Indian cities:

Source: Based on latest market data as of 21 January 2026. Actual rates may vary at individual jewellery stores.

Why Are Gold Prices Rising in January 2026?

Gold rates have experienced a dramatic increase in January 2026, with prices touching record highs across India. Multiple factors are contributing to this upward trajectory:

Global Economic Uncertainty

Gold prices have extended their uptrend in 2026, scaling fresh record highs, with international gold prices advancing by nearly 6% in the first 13 days of the new year and breaching the US$4,600 per ounce mark. The sustained rally has been driven by elevated geopolitical tensions and persistent policy uncertainty globally.

Safe-Haven Demand

The sustained uptrend has been largely driven by elevated geopolitical tensions, persistent policy uncertainty, and resilient safe-haven demand. Investors are increasingly turning to gold as a hedge against inflation and market volatility, particularly given the uncertain economic landscape.

Currency Fluctuations

The depreciation of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has significantly impacted gold prices in India. Since gold is primarily imported and traded internationally in US dollars, a weaker rupee makes gold more expensive for Indian consumers.

Central Bank Purchases

Central banks worldwide, including India's Reserve Bank of India (RBI), have been increasing their gold reserves. This institutional demand has provided strong structural support to gold prices, creating upward pressure on rates.

Investment Demand

Indian investors have shown robust interest in gold-backed instruments. Gold ETFs and Sovereign Gold Bonds have witnessed substantial inflows as investors seek portfolio diversification and protection against economic uncertainties.

Gold Rate Today 22 Carat: Understanding the Difference

The gold rate today 22 carat is lower than 24 karat gold because 22K gold contains 91.6% pure gold mixed with other metals like copper and silver for added durability. This makes it ideal for jewellery manufacturing, as pure 24K gold is too soft for intricate designs. Currently, 22K gold is priced at approximately ₹13,180 per gram across most Indian cities.

Gold Rate Today 18 Carat: Budget-Friendly Option

For those looking for a more affordable option, 18 karat gold provides a balance between purity and cost. With 75% gold content and 25% other metals, the gold rate today 18 carat stands at ₹10,784 per gram. This grade is popular for fashion jewellery and daily wear pieces.

Today's Gold Price Movement: Rate Increase Analysis

On 21 January 2026, gold has shown an increase of ₹350 per gram for 22K gold in Chennai compared to the previous day. This represents a substantial single-day jump, reflecting the strong momentum in global gold markets.

The price surge comes after:

• Continuous record highs in international gold markets
• Weakening of the Indian rupee
• Increased safe-haven demand amid geopolitical tensions
• Strong ETF inflows globally

Factors Affecting Gold Rate in India

International Gold Prices

Global gold prices on exchanges like COMEX (Commodity Exchange) directly influence Indian rates. Any movement in international markets is quickly reflected in domestic prices.

Import Duties and Taxes

Gold purchases in India are subject to:

• GST (Goods and Services Tax): 3% (1.5% CGST + 1.5% SGST)
• Import Duty: Currently impacts the landed cost of gold
• Making Charges: Vary from 5% to 35% depending on jewellery design complexity

Seasonal Demand

Indian gold demand typically peaks during:

• Wedding season (November to February)
• Festivals like Akshaya Tritiya, Diwali, and Dhanteras
• Occasions like birthdays and anniversaries

Local Factors

City-specific gold rates vary due to:

• State taxes and local levies
• Transportation costs (coastal cities often have lower rates)
• Local jeweller associations' pricing policies
• Demand-supply dynamics in the region

Investment Options in Gold

Physical Gold

• Gold Jewellery: Traditional investment with emotional value
• Gold Coins and Bars: Available from banks and authorized dealers in various denominations (0.5g to 100g)

Digital Gold

Growing in popularity, digital gold can be purchased through apps and platforms. Digital gold purchases via UPI increased steadily through 2025, with transaction values rising from ₹8 billion in January to ₹21 billion in December, with an estimated 13.5 tonnes purchased over the year.

Paper Gold

• Gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds): Trade on stock exchanges like regular stocks
• Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs): Government-backed securities with fixed interest
• Gold Mutual Funds: Professionally managed gold investment portfolios

Tips for Buying Gold Today

1. Check Hallmark Certification: Always buy BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) hallmarked gold to ensure purity
2. Compare Prices: Rates vary between jewellers; compare before purchasing
3. Understand Making Charges: Clarify making charges, wastage charges, and other costs upfront
4. Get Proper Documentation: Ensure you receive proper bills and certificates
5. PAN Card Requirement: Mandatory for purchases above ₹2 lakh
6. Payment Mode: Cash payments above ₹2 lakh are not permitted; use digital payment methods

Gold Rate Forecast for 2026

Market analysts predict gold prices could continue their upward trajectory throughout 2026, driven by:

• Ongoing geopolitical uncertainties
• Inflation concerns in major economies
• Central bank gold accumulation
• Potential interest rate adjustments by the US Federal Reserve

However, investors should note that gold prices are subject to volatility and can fluctuate based on changing economic conditions.

Historical Gold Price Trends

Gold has consistently proven to be a strong long-term investment. Over the past decade, gold prices in India have increased from approximately ₹30,000 per 10 grams in 2014 to over ₹1,43,000 per 10 grams in January 2026, representing substantial appreciation and outpacing inflation.

Important Considerations Before Buying Gold

Purity Standards

• 24K (999 purity): 99.9% pure gold
• 22K (916 purity): 91.6% pure gold
• 18K (750 purity): 75% pure gold

GST and Tax Implications

All gold purchases attract 3% GST. For income tax purposes:

• Physical gold held for less than 3 years: Taxed as per income tax slab
• Physical gold held for more than 3 years: 20% tax with indexation benefit
• Gold ETFs/SGBs have different tax treatments

Storage and Insurance

Consider safety deposit lockers or bank lockers for storing physical gold. Insurance coverage is recommended for valuable gold holdings.

Conclusion

The gold rate today in India on 21 January 2026 reflects a strong upward trend driven by global economic factors, geopolitical uncertainties, and robust domestic demand. With 24K gold at ₹14,378 per gram, 22K gold at ₹13,180 per gram, and 18K gold at ₹10,784 per gram, buyers should carefully evaluate their investment decisions considering market dynamics and personal financial goals.

Whether you're buying gold for jewellery, investment, or as a gift, staying informed about daily gold rate fluctuations helps make better purchasing decisions. Always verify current rates with local jewellers and consider both short-term market movements and long-term investment potential when buying gold.

Disclaimer: Gold rates mentioned are indicative and sourced from reputable market sources. Actual rates may vary between jewellers and cities. Always verify current prices with authorized dealers before making purchases. Rates exclude GST, making charges, and other applicable levies.

Last Updated: 21 January 2026

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