Indian physical gold traders refrained from taking fresh deals as prices hit its peak in a seasonally strong demand period, with the rupee, which hit the highest level in a week, further helping prices.
The most-traded gold for October delivery on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) hit a high of Rs 31,091 per 10 grams, before trading up 0.27 percent at Rs 31,030 at 0858 GMT.
International spot gold rose to the loftiest level since mid-April on Monday, extending strong gains from last week as expectations for further monetary easing from the U.S. Federal Reserve kept sentiment buoyant.
The rupee plays an important role in determining the landed cost of the dollar-quoted yellow metal.
"Buying is very slow... we could see some buying on dips to Rs 30,500," said Haresh Acharya, head of bullion desk, Parker Bullion, referring to a 2 percent drop in prices from the current levels.
India, the world's biggest consumer, is in the middle of the festival and wedding season which will continue till November.
Gold imports to India are likely to fall by as much as 26 percent, or by 200 to 250 tonnes, in 2012 as record high prices hit the budgets of consumers.
