Kathmandu, Aug. 6 -- Gold or silver?

Silver has historically played a supporting role to gold in Nepal, where the yellow metal is deeply intertwined with Hindu and Buddhist traditions, centuries-old trans-Himalayan trade and the culture of holding tangible wealth.

From the gilded roofs of sacred temples to the heavy gold ornaments worn by brides, gold has long symbolised purity, status and financial security.

But the notion of precious metals as an investment appears to be changing.

Nepal's silver import bill surpassed the value of gold imports in the last fiscal year ended mid-July for the first time on record, reflecting an unprecedented surge in demand for the precious white metal.

Traders say the boom was fuelled by soaring silve...