Current Tabla price in Nepal
Tabla price in Nepal vary significantly depending on quality, brand, material, and whether the tabla is handmade or factory-produced. Entry-level tablas start around NPR 4,000 while mid-range options go up to NPR 12,000. High-end professional tablas, often crafted by reputed makers and using high-quality materials, can cost anywhere from NPR 20,000 to NPR 60,000 or more. Electric tablas and taalpetikas typically start around NPR 18,000.
Overview
Tabla is one of the most prominent Indian classical percussion instruments, widely used in genres ranging from Hindustani classical to bhajans, folk music, and fusion performances. Its increasing popularity in Nepal has made it a staple in music schools, concert stages, and home studios.
Tablas come in different scale variations, including male, female (ladies tabla), and bass versions. Female tablas are typically tuned to higher scales such as E, F, or G and are more compact. Standard tablas are tuned based on the performer’s vocal or instrumental key.
Popular Brands and Their Price Ranges
1. Haridas Vhatkar Tabla
Haridas Vhatkar is one of the most respected tabla makers, known for producing high-end professional instruments. These tablas are handcrafted with precision and are preferred by maestros for their deep tonal quality and long sustain. The dayan is made from premium-quality Kesarwood, and the bayan is typically a heavy copper or brass base, which offers rich bass resonance. These tablas are finely tuned and come with a set of accessories including a tuning hammer, cushion, and cover. The price range in Nepal starts from NPR 20,000 to NPR 70,000, depending on wood quality and finish.
2. Dayanand Haridas Tabla
Another premium brand, Dayanand Haridas tablas are appreciated for their consistent craftsmanship and acoustic quality. They use high-quality Sheesham or Kesarwood for the dayan and a thick brass bayan that provides a resonant and rounded bass sound. These tablas are especially popular among senior students and semi-professional performers. They are known for staying in tune for extended periods, even in varying climates. The sets are sold with professional-grade tuning hammers and padded bags. In Nepal, the price generally ranges from NPR 15,000 to NPR 60,000.
3. Monoj Kumar Sardar Tabla
Monoj Kumar Sardar tablas are a trusted choice among music institutions and students across Nepal and India. These tablas are known for their balance between affordability and quality. The dayan is usually made from Sheesham or mango wood, and the bayan from copper or nickel-coated brass, offering durability and clear tones. These sets are ideal for intermediate learners and come in both concert and student models. Available widely in Nepali markets, their price range is approximately NPR 20,000 to NPR 40,000.
4. Paloma Tabla
Paloma is known for providing durable and well-finished tabla sets suitable for both beginners and intermediate players. They offer different variants, from practice models with synthetic skins to professional sets using seasoned goat skin and hardwoods like Sheesham. Paloma tablas are praised for their tonal clarity and are often used in classical and devotional music settings. They come with a full set of accessories including cushion rings, hammer, and cover. The typical price in Nepal falls between NPR 12,000 and NPR 35,000.
5. P & Brothers Tabla
P. & Brothers is a reputable manufacturer that offers quality tabla sets tailored for students and hobbyists. These tablas are budget-friendly without compromising on the essential tonal characteristics. The dayan is often crafted from mango or Sheesham wood, while the bayan is usually brass or copper alloy. The tabla heads are traditionally made using seasoned goat skin, and tuning is reasonably stable. These sets are ideal for schools and music programs. In Nepal, you can find P. & Brothers tabla sets priced from NPR 10,000 to NPR 25,000.
Here’s a look at some of the most reputable tabla brands used by students and professionals:
| Brand | Estimated Price Range (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Haridas Vhatkar | 20,000 – 70,000 |
| Dayanand Haridas | 15,000 – 60,000 |
| Monoj Kumar Sardar | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| Paloma | 12,000 – 35,000 |
| P. & Brothers | 10,000 – 30,000 |
Varanasi Tabla Set Price in Nepal
Looking to buy a Varanasi tabla set in Nepal? Varanasi tablas are renowned for their superior craftsmanship, rich tonal quality, and traditional hand-made construction. Popular among both students and professional musicians, these tabla sets are made using seasoned wood and high-quality leather.
In Nepal, Varanasi tabla sets are available at various price points depending on size, material (brass or copper bayan), and finish quality. Whether you’re in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, or Pokhara, you can find authentic Varanasi tabla sets online or at reputed music stores.
Here’s a detailed price list of Varanasi tabla sets in Nepal to help you make an informed decision.
Varanasi Tabla Set Price in Nepal (2025 Estimate)
| Tabla Set Type | Features | Price Range (NPR) |
| Beginner Varanasi Tabla Set | Wooden dayan, iron bayan, basic tuning | NPR 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Intermediate Varanasi Tabla Set | Sheesham dayan, brass bayan, better finish | NPR 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Professional Varanasi Tabla Set | Premium wood, copper bayan, high-grade skin | NPR 18,000 – 28,000 |
| Custom-Made Varanasi Tabla Set | Handmade by master craftsmen, concert quality | NPR 30,000+ |
| Varanasi Tabla with Accessories | Includes hammer, cover, rings, and cushions | NPR 15,000 – 25,000 |
Clay Tabla price in Nepal
If you’re exploring traditional and earthy tones in Indian classical music, clay tabla sets offer a unique sound profile unlike their metal counterparts. Commonly used in folk, devotional, and lighter classical forms, the clay bayan (left drum) creates a softer, more resonant bass.
In Nepal, clay tabla sets are appreciated by students and spiritual musicians alike for their affordability and natural acoustics. Ideal for indoor practice and bhajan sessions, these tabla sets are available across music stores in cities like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur. Here’s a current price list of clay tabla sets in Nepal to guide your purchase.
Clay Tabla Price in Nepal (2025 Estimate)
| Tabla Set Type | Features | Price Range (NPR) |
| Basic Clay Tabla Set | Wooden dayan, clay bayan, light tuning | NPR 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Standard Clay Tabla Set | Well-finished dayan, medium-sized clay bayan | NPR 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Handcrafted Clay Tabla Set | Artisan-made, tuned for performance | NPR 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Decorative Clay Tabla Set | Painted or designed for temple/Bhajan use | NPR 6,000 – 10,000 |
| Clay Tabla with Accessories | Includes rings, cushions, hammer, and cover | NPR 10,000 – 14,000 |
Electric Tabla Prices in Nepal
Electric tablas are designed for easy practice, composition, and performance. They simulate traditional tabla rhythms digitally and are widely used by solo artists, music schools, and devotional singers. These devices offer multiple taals, tempo controls, and scale adjustments.
An Electric Tabla is an electronic version of the traditional tabla that digitally reproduces the sounds of both dayan (treble) and bayan (bass) using pre-recorded or synthesized sound samples. These instruments are compact, easy to carry, and often come with built-in memory, adjustable tempo, and various taal presets like Teentaal, Dadra, Keharwa, and more.
While handmade tablas offer a rich, nuanced sound ideal for live performances and classical settings, electric tablas are used for specific, practical purposes, such as:
Certified Uses of Electric Tabla:
- Practice support for students without the need for a human accompanist.
- Reliable rhythm companion for vocalists and instrumentalists during solo practice or online classes.
- Portability and convenience during travel and teaching.
- Adjustable tempo and pitch make it ideal for experimentation and learning.
- Recording and live looping in fusion or contemporary setups.
- Noise-controlled environments where acoustic tabla is not feasible.
Prices for electric tablas typically range from NPR 18,000 to NPR 45,000 depending on features, sound banks, and build quality.
List of Electric Tabla Brands
- Raagini Digital Tabla (Taalmala Digi 100 Plus)
- Sound Labs Tabla Tarang
- SwarMandal Digital Tabla Pro
- Sangat Digital Tabla
- Taalpeti Premium (All Taal in one)
Tabla Prices in Nepal: A Comparative Table
1. Basic Practice Tabla Set
This is the most affordable and widely used tabla set for beginners. It usually features a mango wood or synthetic dayan and a brass or aluminum bayan. The tabla heads are made from basic quality goat skin and require regular tuning. These are ideal for young students just starting to learn the fundamentals of rhythm and taal.
- Best For: Kids, hobbyists, school learners
- Estimated Price Range (Nepal): NPR 8,000 – NPR 12,000
2. Student-Grade Tabla
A step up from the basic practice set, this tabla features better quality Sheesham wood for the dayan and a nickel-coated brass bayan. The sound quality is more refined, and the tuning holds for longer. These are often used in music schools and institutions.
- Best For: Music school students, intermediate learners
- Estimated Price Range (Nepal): NPR 12,000 – NPR 20,000
3. Lightweight Tabla Set
Specifically designed for children or portable use, these sets are lightweight with a smaller diameter. They are often used by teachers for traveling or by students for convenience.
- Best For: Young learners, mobile practice
- Estimated Price Range (Nepal): NPR 10,000 – NPR 15,000
4. Fiber Body Tabla (Beginner Model)
This modern tabla uses fiber-reinforced plastic for the dayan, making it more durable and resistant to humidity. While not traditional, it serves beginners in regions with fluctuating climate conditions.
- Best For: Learners in humid or high-altitude areas
- Estimated Price Range (Nepal): NPR 10,000 – NPR 16,000
5. Beginners’ Tabla with Tuning Scale Options
Some beginner sets come with the option to tune the dayan to different notes (like C, D, or G). These sets help learners practice with vocalists or harmoniums tuned to specific scales.
- Best For: Learners practicing with accompaniment
- Estimated Price Range (Nepal): NPR 12,000 – NPR 18,000
| Tabla Type | Price Range (NPR) | Materials Used | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level tabla | 8,000 – 12,000 | Mixed wood, synthetic skin | Beginners |
| Student-grade tabla | 8,000 – 15,000 | Sheesham wood, goat skin | Students |
| Professional tabla | 20,000 – 60,000+ | Kesar wood, seasoned skin | Performers, studios |
| Electric tabla | 18,000 – 45,000 | Electronic, poly-carbonate | Teachers, home users |
| Ladies tabla (compact) | 10,000 – 18,000 | Sheesham, brass base | Female vocalists |
List of Electric Tabla Price Ranges
| Brand | Price (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Raagini Digital | 19,500 – 28,000 |
| Sound Labs Taal Tarang | 26,000 – 38,000 |
| SwarMandal Pro | 30,000 – 45,000 |
| Taalpeti Full Version | 35,000 – 48,000 |
List of Tabla Price Ranges in Nepal
| Type | Price Range (NPR) |
|---|---|
| Entry-level | 4,000 – 7,000 |
| Mid-range | 8,000 – 15,000 |
| High-end | 20,000 – 60,000 |
| Electric | 18,000 – 45,000 |
Top Tabla Sellers in Nepal
1. Manasukh Dhvani
- Location: Pulchowk, Lalitpur
- Offerings: Wide range of tabla sets, including professional as well as of begineer level. Offeres tabla set with all its requirements .
- Price Range: NPR 10,00 – NPR 50,000(depends upon the type of tabla bought)
- Special Features: Handmade drums, sheesham dayan, fully tuned, and bundled with covers, stands, and tuning hammers.
- Website: https://manasukhdhvani.com/
- Contact: manasukhdhvani@gmail.com
2. Nepal Music Gallery
- Location: Lainchour, Kathmandu
- Offerings: Wide range of tabla sets, including professional 3.5 kg copper bayan sets, designer models, and student packages.
- Price Range: NPR 12,500 – NPR 25,000
- Special Features: Handmade drums, sheesham dayan, fully tuned, and bundled with covers, stands, and tuning hammers.
- Website: Nepal Music Gallery
3. Audio Shop Nepal
- Location: Boudhanath, Kathmandu
- Offerings: Traditional Nepali tabla sets crafted from hardwood and goat skin, suitable for classical and folk music.
- Price Range: NPR 10,000 – NPR 20,000
- Special Features: Emphasis on tonal quality, syahi detailing, and cultural authenticity.
- Website: Audio Shop Nepal
4. Hamro Saman
- Location: Nationwide (Online)
- Offerings: Professional Varanasi tabla sets with sheesham wood dayan and steel bayan.
- Price Range: Approximately NPR 19,000 (based on current exchange rates)
- Special Features: Wholesale availability, suitable for bulk orders.
- Website: hamrosaman.com
5. Ubuy Nepal
- Location: Online Platform
- Offerings: Imported professional tabla sets, including Maharaja Musicals and Banjira brands.
- Price Range: NPR 30,000 – NPR 130,000
- Special Features: Designer golden brass bayans, sheesham dayans, and complete kits with accessories.
- Website: Ubuy Nepa
6. Handicraft Seller
- Location: Kathmandu
- Offerings: High-quality Nepali folk musical instrument tabla sets, often bundled with instructional books.
- Price Range: Approximately NPR 34,000 (based on current exchange rates)
- Special Features: Focus on traditional craftsmanship and cultural significance.
- Website: handicraftseller.com
7. Hamrobazar
- Location: Kathmandu (Online Classifieds)
- Offerings: Various sellers offering special quality tabla sets at competitive prices.
- Price Range: Around NPR 11,000
- Special Features: Platform for both wholesale and retail purchases.
- Website: HamrobazarNepal
Promotional Bundles
Stores often provide tabla sets with additional accessories like cushions, tuning hammers, carry bags, and covers. During festivals like Dashain or Tihar, bundles may come with up to 15% discount.Many music stores and online retailers in Nepal offer promotional bundles when you purchase a tabla set, especially for students, teachers, or during festivals and musical events. These bundles are designed to provide more value and convenience for buyers, particularly beginners or institutions. Here’s a description of common tabla promotional bundles available:
1. Student Combo Pack
- Includes: Beginner tabla set, tuning hammer, tabla cushion rings, and a carrying bag.
- Purpose: Ideal for students starting their musical journey.
- Occasions: Back-to-school season or new academic terms.
2. Teacher’s/Institute Bulk Bundle
- Includes: 3 to 5 tabla sets, discounts on bulk orders, and optional maintenance kits.
- Purpose: Tailored for music teachers or schools equipping multiple students.
- Discounts Offered: Up to 15% off on bulk purchase.
- Estimated Price Range: Varies, based on volume and tabla quality.
3. Festival Offers (Dashain, Tihar, Teej)
- Includes: Special discounts + free accessories (like tabla cover, tuning guidebook).
- Purpose: Encourages gifting musical instruments during cultural festivals.
- Bonus: EMI or easy payment options may be available.
4. Electronic Tabla Bundle
- Includes: Digital tabla (taalpeti), adapter, manual, and instructional CD or online lessons.
- Ideal For: Vocalists and solo learners.
5. Premium Learner Kit
Includes: Mid-range tabla set, tuning hammer, tabla book, cover bag, and practice stool.
Best For: Serious students starting formal classical music training.
Locally Made Tabla Prices in Nepal
Local tabla makers in Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, and Kathmandu Valley offer well-crafted instruments at lower prices—often 30–40% cheaper than imported brands. Prices typically start from NPR 5,500 for beginner models and go up to NPR 50,000 for high-quality ones.Locally made tabla sets in Nepal reflect the rich musical heritage and craftsmanship passed down through generations. These tablas are often handmade by skilled artisans using Nepali sheesham (rosewood) or tun wood for the dayan (right drum) and brass, copper, or steel for the bayan (left drum). The drumheads use high-quality goat or buffalo skin, and the syahi (ink spot) is meticulously applied for tonal precision.
Local tabla makers, especially in cities like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur, produce tablas suitable for students, folk musicians, and semi-professionals. These instruments are not only affordable but also offer a warm, earthy sound preferred in many traditional and devotional settings.
Table: Locally Made Tabla Price Range in Nepal
| Tabla Type | Material Used | Suitable For | Estimated Price (NPR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Tabla Set | Sheesham wood (Dayan), brass/steel (Bayan) | Beginners, Students | NPR 6,000 – NPR 10,000 |
| Folk/Traditional Tabla | Local tun wood, brass Bayan | Bhajans, Lok Sangeet | NPR 8,000 – NPR 12,000 |
| Semi-Professional Tabla | Seasoned rosewood, copper Bayan | Intermediate Learners | NPR 12,000 – NPR 18,000 |
| Premium Locally Handcrafted | Aged hardwood, heavy brass Bayan | Serious Students, Artists | NPR 18,000 – NPR 25,000 |
| Lightweight Tabla Set | Mixed woods, steel Bayan | Children or Travelers | NPR 5,000 – NPR 8,000 |
Key Features of Locally Made Tablas:
Available from local workshops and stores in Asan, Patan, and Bhaktapur.
Handmade in Nepal using traditional methods.
Locally sourced wood and leather.
Custom tuning possible based on user preference.
Includes accessories like tuning hammer and ring cushions (in some bundles).
Import Taxes
Imported tablas, especially those from India, may carry 13% VAT and an additional customs duty of 5–10% based on declared value.Importing musical instruments like tabla to Nepal is subject to customs duties and VAT. Generally, the customs duty on tabla sets ranges from 5% to 10%, depending on material type and declaration. Additionally, 13% VAT is levied on the total invoice value, including shipping.
Customs Clearance Fees
Standard customs clearance fees for musical instruments range from NPR 500 to NPR 2,000, depending on mode of import and invoice.Clearing goods at customs requires documentation such as the bill of lading, invoice, and import declaration form (IDF). If you’re ordering as a retailer or in bulk, you may need an import license. Custom agents often charge NPR 500–1500 for their services.
Transportation Costs
For tablas imported from India, shipping costs range between NPR 1,500 – 5,000, depending on weight and shipping method (land/air).Shipping costs depend on whether the tabla is transported via air or road. For Indian imports, road transport is common, and costs can vary between NPR 1,000–5,000 per set, depending on the size, insurance, and delivery distance.Understanding these costs is crucial when budgeting for a tabla purchase, especially for bulk buyers and resellers.
Factors Affecting Pricing
- Wood type (Sheesham, Kesar, Mango)
- Skin quality (goat, synthetic)
- Tuning accuracy
- Craftsmanship (handmade vs. machine-made)
- Brand reputation
Factors Influencing Tabla Prices
- Import vs local production
- Festival demand spikes
- Brand quality
- Accessories included (hammer, bag, cushions)
Impact of Seasonal Fluctuations on Consumers
During peak musical seasons, such as Dashain, Tihar, and school admission times, prices tend to rise due to demand. It’s advisable to buy during off-seasons or pre-festival sales.The purchase pattern of tablas in Nepal is significantly influenced by seasonal fluctuations, both in terms of demand and pricing. During festive seasons like Dashain, Tihar, and Teej, the demand for tabla rises as cultural programs, bhajans, and school functions become more frequent. Similarly, academic admission seasons—especially in music institutions—see increased interest in tabla purchases by students.
However, during monsoon months, there’s a notable drop in demand. The high humidity levels in this season also discourage many buyers, as tabla skins are sensitive to moisture and can lose tonal quality. Retailers, in turn, reduce stock or offer monsoon discounts to stimulate sales.
Price fluctuations also occur due to transport disruptions (landslides, road blockages), leading to delayed shipments and higher logistics costs, which are often passed to consumers. Conversely, winter and pre-festival sales often bring discounts and promotional bundles, creating a surge in purchasing activity.
Tips for Smart Tabla Purchasing
- Always compare prices across multiple platforms
- Try the tabla for tuning and resonance before purchasing
- Opt for reputed brands or verified local craftsmen
- Buy during off-season or festival sales to save money
Conclusion
Purchasing a tabla is not just an investment in a musical instrument—it’s a step toward embracing the rich rhythmic traditions of South Asia. Whether you’re a beginner, an aspiring musician, or a professional artist, choosing the right tabla—be it acoustic or electric—can deeply influence your musical journey.
This blog has aimed to provide a comprehensive guide on tabla prices in Nepal, covering:
- The current market rates for various types of tablas
- Trusted brands and electric tabla options
- Promotional bundles and seasonal offers
- Insights on import taxes, customs, and local transportation costs
- The types of tablas suitable for beginners and professionals
- The impact of seasonal fluctuations on purchasing behavior
By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision and get the best value—whether you’re buying a locally handcrafted tabla or importing a branded professional set. At the heart of it, the tabla is not just an instrument—it’s a cultural legacy. Owning one helps you connect with tradition, enhance musical skills, and become part of a timeless rhythm that resonates across generations
Faqs
1. What is the price of tabla set?
The price of a tabla set can range from ₹3,000 to ₹25,000 or more depending on the quality, brand, and craftsmanship. Beginners can start with a budget-friendly set, while professionals may opt for premium handmade tablas.
2. What are the two types of tabla?
The two main types of tabla are the dayan (right-hand drum, made of wood) and the bayan (left-hand drum, made of metal or clay). Together, they form the complete tabla set.
3. What is the weight of tabla in KG?
A typical tabla set weighs between 8 to 12 kilograms, depending on the materials used and size of the drums.
4. Which type of tabla is best for beginners?
For beginners, a tabla set with a brass or copper bayan and a well-tuned wooden dayan is recommended. These are durable and produce clear sounds ideal for learning.
5. Who is No 1 tabla player?
Zakir Hussain is often regarded as the No. 1 tabla player globally, known for his extraordinary skill, innovation, and contributions to Indian classical and world music.
6. Is tabla easy to learn?
Tabla is moderately difficult to learn. While basic strokes can be learned quickly, mastering the instrument requires regular practice and guidance from a qualified teacher.
7. What is tabla called in English?
In English, “tabla” retains its original name. However, it is commonly described as a pair of Indian hand drums.
8. Who is the father of tabla?
Ustad Siddhar Khan of Delhi Gharana is often referred to as the “Father of Tabla” for his pivotal role in shaping the instrument’s classical tradition.
9. How many levels are there in tabla?
Tabla learning is generally divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, each including various compositions like kaida, rela, tukra, and more.
10. What skin is tabla made of?
The tabla head is made from layers of goat or cow skin, with a central black spot called syahi, made from iron filings and starch for tonal precision.
11. Is tabla and drum same?
While tabla is a type of drum, it is not the same as Western drums. Tabla has a unique structure and is capable of producing complex rhythmic patterns and tonal variations.
12. Does tabla have pitch?
Yes, tabla has pitch and tonal qualities, especially the dayan. It is usually tuned to a specific note to match the pitch of the accompanying instrument or vocalist.
13. How many days to learn tabla?
Learning basic tabla can take a few weeks to months, but mastering the art may take years of disciplined practice under a guru.
14. Which instrument is easy to learn?
In comparison to other Indian classical instruments, harmonium or flute might be easier to start with. Tabla requires rhythmic precision and practice but is highly rewarding.
15. What is the price of Taalmala tabla?
Taalmala is not a tabla, but a digital tabla machine used for practice. Its price ranges between ₹5,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the model and features.
16. What is a tabla set?
A tabla set consists of two drums: dayan (right-hand wooden drum) and bayan (left-hand metal or clay drum), along with accessories like cushions, tuning hammer, and covers.
17. What are the 2 parts of tabla?
The two main parts of tabla are:
- Dayan: The wooden treble drum played with the right hand.
- Bayan: The bass drum played with the left hand.
18. What are the two drums of the tabla?
The two drums of the tabla are:
- Dayan: Small, wooden, higher-pitched drum.
- Bayan: Large, metal or clay, bass-pitched drum.
19. How many types of Taal are there in tabla?
There are over 100 types of Taal in tabla. Common ones include Teentaal, Jhaptaal, Ektaal, Rupak, and Keherwa, each with a distinct beat cycle and structure.
20. What is a kaida in tabla?
A kaida is a type of composition in tabla where a basic rhythmic pattern is introduced and then improvised using specific rules. It’s fundamental in learning tabla improvisation.
