Buying land is a big investment — especially in Nepal, where land ownership is one of the most secure and respected forms of wealth. But with increasing cases of land fraud, duplicate documents, and ownership disputes, verifying land ownership before purchase has become more important than ever.
Whether you’re purchasing land in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar, or a rural area, here’s a step-by-step guide to verify land ownership in Nepal so you can protect your investment and avoid legal troubles.
🔍 Step 1: Check the Lalpurja (Land Ownership Certificate)
The Lalpurja (लालपुर्जा) is the primary document that proves legal ownership of land.
What to do:
- Ask the seller for a copy of the original Lalpurja.
- Cross-verify the details: landowner’s name, plot number (कित्ता नम्बर), area (रोपनी/आना/पैसा/दाम), and location.
- Ensure that the Lalpurja is not handwritten or outdated — modern computerized versions are more secure.
✅ Tip: Take a photocopy of the Lalpurja to the Land Revenue Office (Malpot) for verification.
🏢 Step 2: Visit the Malpot Office (Land Revenue Office)
The Malpot Office (मालपोत कार्यालय) is the government authority responsible for land registration and ownership records.
What to do:
- Visit the Malpot office where the land is registered.
- Request to check the official record (मालपोत किताब) for the plot.
- Ensure that:
- The seller is the current registered owner.
- There are no restrictions, mortgages, or ownership disputes on the land.
📝 Bring the plot number and ward/municipality information to help staff locate the record faster.
⚖️ Step 3: Conduct a Field Visit and Boundary Check
Often overlooked, this is one of the most crucial steps in avoiding future conflict.
What to do:
- Visit the land physically with the seller and neighbors.
- Ask for the Char Killa (चारकिल्ला) map — the blueprint that defines the land’s boundaries.
- Measure the land with a surveyor to ensure the area matches the Lalpurja.
- Ask neighbors or the ward office if the land has been involved in any disputes or encroachments.
🚫 Avoid verbal agreements. Always cross-check the location and size with official maps.
📜 Step 4: Check for Multiple Ownership or Inherited Property
If the land is jointly owned or inherited (पुर्ख्यौली सम्पत्ति), consent from all legal heirs or co-owners is mandatory.
What to do:
- Ask for a No Objection Letter (मञ्जुरीनामा) from all heirs or co-owners.
- Ensure that all signatures are verified and submitted at the Malpot office.
- Request citizenship copies of all owners involved.
⚠️ Buying land from only one heir of a shared property can lead to long legal battles.
🏛️ Step 5: Check for Court Cases or Land Disputes
A clean Lalpurja doesn’t always mean the land is free from legal issues.
What to do:
- Visit the local court office to check for any ongoing or past cases involving the land.
- You may also consult a property lawyer to do a legal background check.
💡 Even if land is registered correctly, it could be under a legal stay (स्थगन) or dispute.
🪪 Step 6: Verify Seller’s Identity
Always verify that the person selling the land is legally authorized to do so.
What to do:
- Ask for a copy of their Citizenship Certificate (नागरिकता प्रमाणपत्र).
- Match the name, photo, and details with the Lalpurja.
- If the land is being sold on someone’s behalf, ask for a Power of Attorney (अधिकार पत्र) authorized by the court.
🧠 Fraud cases often involve sellers who impersonate real owners or use fake documents.
🧾 Step 7: Review Land Tax & Payment History
Ensure the land is free of tax dues and other financial obligations.
What to do:
- Ask for the latest Land Tax Clearance Certificate (कर चुक्ता प्रमाणपत्र).
- Confirm that annual land taxes (Malpot Kar) are fully paid.
📌 Unpaid taxes may delay or even block the ownership transfer process.
✅ Summary: Checklist to Verify Land Ownership
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Lalpurja Verified | ✅ |
| Malpot Record Checked | ✅ |
| Field Visit and Boundary Confirmed | ✅ |
| Legal Heir/Co-Owner Consent (if applicable) | ✅ |
| Legal Case History Checked | ✅ |
| Seller’s Identity Verified | ✅ |
| Tax Clearance Obtained | ✅ |
