How to Buy Weed in India: Cannabis Laws, Bhang & What Tourists Should Know in Goa

Every missed opportunity to understand India’s cannabis laws could mean serious legal consequences, including imprisonment for foreign nationals. With Goa alone registering 163 NDPS cases in 2025 and 32 foreign nationals arrested for drug offenses, the solution isn’t risky experimentation; it’s leveraging accurate legal information and understanding cultural context to navigate India’s complex cannabis landscape safely and responsibly.

• Recreational cannabis (ganja, charas) is illegal throughout India with severe penalties under the NDPS Act
• 32 foreign nationals were arrested in Goa alone in 2025 for drug offenses
• Bhang (made from cannabis leaves/seeds) is not confirmed legal in Goa but is permitted in states like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan
• Penalties range from 1 year to 20 years imprisonment depending on quantity
• CBD legality is complex; hempseed foods have defined THC/CBD limits under FSSAI, and medicinal cannabis or bhang-based AYUSH products require proper licensing and compliance
• Goa maintains a “zero tolerance” policy with a ~692% increase in seizures from ₹9.91 cr (2024) to ₹78.48 cr (2025)
• No exemptions exist for foreign nationals; Indian drug laws apply equally to all

Your perception of Goa as a cannabis-friendly destination likely stems from its 1970s “Hippie Trail” reputation, but reality has shifted dramatically. India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS) of 1985 strictly prohibits recreational cannabis, and Goa has emerged as one of the strictest enforcement zones in the country. Goa Police tourist guidance states that NDPS provisions are stringent and advises tourists not to buy or sell drugs, with government officials publicly emphasizing their commitment to maintaining Goa as a “drug-free” destination.

This enforcement isn’t theoretical; 32 foreign nationals arrested in 2025 alone, and drug seizure values rose by approximately 692% compared to 2024. The tourism landscape has fundamentally changed, with the government actively promoting family-friendly tourism while cracking down on the drug culture that once defined certain beach areas.

For those seeking cannabis information and education, Herb’s strain guides provide valuable insights into cannabis varieties, though this knowledge should be applied within the legal frameworks of your location and not used to justify illegal activity in India.

The foundation of India’s cannabis regulations lies in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS) of 1985, which creates a nuanced legal framework that distinguishes between different parts of the cannabis plant.

The NDPS Act explicitly prohibits:

• Ganja: Flowering or fruiting tops of the cannabis plant
• Charas: Cannabis resin (hashish)
• Any mixture or preparation containing these substances

This prohibition applies nationwide, including all tourist destinations like Goa, and carries severe penalties that apply equally to foreign nationals.

The NDPS Act makes a critical distinction by excluding cannabis leaves and seeds (when not accompanied by flowering tops) from the definition of prohibited cannabis, creating a legal pathway for bhang, a traditional preparation made from these parts of the plant. However, this doesn’t automatically make bhang legal everywhere; instead, it allows individual states to regulate its sale and consumption. Importantly, bhang can be intoxicating despite being made from leaves rather than flowering tops, and state excise laws can still prohibit or regulate bhang independently of the NDPS Act.

States with Government-Authorized Bhang Sales:

• Uttar Pradesh: Licensed bhang outlets operate in cities such as Varanasi and Mathura
• Rajasthan: Issues retail licenses for bhang products, with licensed shops operating in tourist areas
• Madhya Pradesh: Has formal bhang licensing rules governing licensed outlets
• Gujarat: Exempted bhang from “intoxicating drugs” under the Gujarat Prohibition Act amendment context in 2017, despite alcohol prohibition

States Where Bhang is Restricted or Banned:

• Kerala: Strict prohibition despite Ayurvedic heritage
• Tamil Nadu: Among lowest cannabis use rates in India
• Assam: Banned under state-specific legislation
• Maharashtra: Requires licenses rarely issued

Note: State rules vary widely. In states not listed above, verify bhang’s legal status locally before assuming access.

This state-by-state variation means that while bhang might be legally available in Varanasi or Jaisalmer, tourists should not assume similar access in Goa.

The NDPS Act establishes a tiered penalty system based on the quantity of cannabis possessed, with no exemptions for foreign nationals.

Ganja: Small quantity is up to 1 kg; commercial quantity is 20 kg or more.

Charas: Small quantity is up to 100 grams; commercial quantity is 1 kg or more.

Small Quantity Possession:

• Up to 1 year rigorous imprisonment
• Fine up to ₹10,000 (approx. $120 USD, depends on exchange rate)
• Or both penalties

Intermediate Quantity (between small and commercial):

• Up to 10 years rigorous imprisonment
• Fine up to ₹1,00,000 (approx. $1,200 USD, depends on exchange rate)

Commercial Quantity:

• 10 to 20 years mandatory rigorous imprisonment
• Fine of ₹1 to 2 lakhs (approx. $1,200 to $2,400 USD, depends on exchange rate); courts may exceed with stated reasons

NDPS includes enhanced penalties for repeat convictions; Section 31A applies only to specified serious repeat offences, not routine cannabis possession.

Recent cases demonstrate the severity of enforcement:

• 5 foreign nationals convicted in Goa in 2025 (from Russia, Lebanon, Nigeria, Britain)
• Nigerian national received maximum 10-year sentence
• 4 foreign nationals deported after serving sentences
• Lengthy detention periods during investigation (months to years)
• Slow court processes with limited bail opportunities for NDPS cases

Goa Police explicitly warn tourists: “Do not buy or sell drugs, you may land into trouble. Provisions of NDPS Act are very stringent.”

Bhang represents a unique intersection of Indian culture, religion, and law, with its legal status varying significantly across the country.

Bhang has deep historical roots in Indian tradition:

• Some scholarship notes Atharva Veda references to bhanga as a sacred plant, though dating and identification are debated among scholars
• Lord Shiva is associated with cannabis consumption, earning the title “Lord of Bhang”
• Religious festivals feature bhang consumption:
  • Holi: Bhang thandai widely consumed in North India
  • Maha Shivaratri: Bhang offered at Shiva temples

Uttar Pradesh:

• Government-authorized bhang outlets operate in cities like Mathura and Varanasi
• Widely available during Holi and Maha Shivaratri

Rajasthan:

• Licensed bhang shops operate in tourist areas of Jaisalmer, Jaipur, and Pushkar
• Traditional sweets and lassi preparations

Despite Goa’s reputation as a tourist destination, Goa treats bhang and cannabis as an “intoxicating drug” under state excise law, and no government-authorized bhang shops have been confirmed as of 2026. Tourists should not assume legal retail access without verifying licensed outlets. While discussions about medical cannabis cultivation have occurred, these proposals focus on medical and industrial purposes (as reported in 2020), not bhang retail for tourists. Any informal bhang sales likely operate outside legal frameworks, carrying the same risks as other cannabis products.

For those interested in understanding different cannabis preparations and their effects, Herb’s educational resources provide comprehensive information about traditional and modern cannabis products, though this knowledge should be applied within legal boundaries.

Goa’s transformation from hippie haven to strict enforcement zone represents one of the most significant shifts in cannabis tourism globally.

• 163 NDPS cases registered
• 212 accused arrested
• 32 foreign nationals apprehended
• ₹78.48 crore in drug seizures (~692% increase from 2024)
• 35 convictions secured

The Goa government has implemented comprehensive measures to combat drug trafficking and consumption:

Enhanced Monitoring:

• Increased Tourist Police presence at beaches and party areas
• Reports indicate Goa planned body cameras for lifeguards to help monitor safety and illegal activity
• Airport awareness campaigns at Manohar International Airport

Nightlife Restrictions:

• Goa Police guidance states that loud music in open areas after 10 PM is not permitted
• Goa has enforced bans and fines on drinking on beaches

Beach Zones:

• North Goa: Anjuna, Arambol, Baga have heavy police presence
• South Goa: Palolem, Patnem are monitored by authorities
• Beach shacks: Identified as “drug flow channels” by police

Nightlife Areas:

• Casinos: Specifically identified as drug monitoring areas
• Nightclubs: Subject to safety and curfew policies
• Party areas: Regular police raids and checkpoints

The government’s messaging is clear: Goa maintains a zero tolerance policy for drugs, with enforcement aligned with the Union Home Minister’s multi-year “Drug-free India” goal (reported as targeting ~2029 in recent coverage).

Never accept drugs from strangers:

• Common scam: “Touts” offer drugs, then report you to police
• Police informants frequently target tourists on beaches
• No “tourist exemption” exists for small amounts

Never purchase from unlicensed sources:

• Street dealers, taxi drivers, hotel touts
• Risk of police sting operations
• Potential for contaminated or dangerous substances
• Can lead to robbery, assault, or worse

Never attend unregulated “rave parties”:

• Despite reputation, drug enforcement has increased significantly
• Police conduct raids on beach parties and clubs
• Foreign nationals specifically targeted in enforcement

Never assume lax enforcement:

• Historical reputation doesn’t reflect current reality
• ~692% increase in seizures demonstrates serious enforcement
• Sentences up to 10 years for foreigners

• “Helpful” locals offering drugs or suggesting sources
• Taxi drivers recommending drug dealers
• Massage parlors operating as drug fronts
• Fake police demanding bribes
• Drink spiking in tourist areas

Safety tip: Always keep drinks attended and never accept food or beverages from strangers, especially in nightlife areas.

India’s CBD landscape is complex. Hempseed foods have defined THC/CBD limits under FSSAI, while medicinal cannabis and bhang-based AYUSH products require proper licensing and compliance. Consumers should verify legality and product documentation locally.

What may be available:

• Hemp-derived CBD products compliant with FSSAI standards
• CBD oils, tinctures, edibles (gummies, chocolates)
• CBD creams, balms, topicals
• CBD-infused tea/coffee

Where to look:

• Licensed Ayurvedic pharmacies (requirements vary by product classification and state)
• Online retailers (HempStreet, Cannameds, CBD Store India)
• Wellness centers in major cities

Important Notes:

• CBD does NOT produce a psychoactive “high” (negligible THC)
• Requirements vary; seek products that are clearly licensed and compliant, and follow medical guidance
• Quality varies; buy from reputable certified sources

For tourists interested in cannabis culture without legal risks:

• Visit traditional bhang shops in legal states like Uttar Pradesh or Rajasthan
• Attend cultural festivals like Holi or Maha Shivaratri to observe traditional use
• Learn about Ayurvedic medicine and historical cannabis use
• Explore Goa’s natural beauty: beaches, wildlife, Portuguese architecture
• Experience authentic Goan cuisine and local culture

For those seeking information about different consumption methods and products, Herb’s comprehensive guides provide educational content about cannabis accessories and preparation techniques, though this information should be applied within legal frameworks.

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