Is Marijuana Legal in Nepal? Drug Laws & Jail Time (2025)

Nepal was once famous for its “Hippie Trail” and open availability of cannabis, but times have changed drastically. A common question among youths and tourists today is: “Is weed legal in Nepal in 2025?”

The short answer is NO. Despite recent political discussions and the Finance Minister’s 2024 budget speech mentioning potential legalization for medicinal use, legislation has NOT changed yet.

Strictly speaking, cannabis remains illegal under the Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act, 2033 (1976). Section 4 of the Act explicitly prohibits the cultivation, production, purchase, sale, and consumption of cannabis.

This article breaks down the penalties, jail time, and bail conditions for drug offenses in Nepal, based on the Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act, 2033.

The Legal Status of Marijuana (Ganja)

Under the current law, the cultivation, production, preparation, purchasing, selling, distribution, export, import, trafficking, storage, and consumption of cannabis are criminal offenses.

While the Finance Minister in 2024 mentioned potential legalization for medicinal use in the budget speech, no law has been passed yet. Until the parliament amends the Act, police can and will arrest you for possession.

Jail Time and Penalties for Weed in Nepal

The punishment depends heavily on whether you are caught consuming, cultivating, or trading.

Offense Type	Quantity / Scale	Penalty (Jail & Fine)
Consumption (Using)	Any amount	Up to 1 Month Jail or NPR 2,000 Fine (First-time offenders often get treatment center)
Cultivation (Farming)	Up to 25 plants	3 Months Jail or NPR 3,000 Fine
Cultivation	More than 25 plants	3 Years Jail or NPR 5,000 - 25,000 Fine
Sale / Trafficking	Up to 50 Grams	3 Months Jail or NPR 3,000 Fine
Sale / Trafficking	50g - 500g	1 Month to 1 Year Jail & NPR 1k-5k Fine
Sale / Trafficking	500g - 2kg	6 Months to 2 Years Jail & NPR 2k-10k Fine
Sale / Trafficking	2kg - 10kg	1 to 3 Years Jail & NPR 5k-25k Fine
Trafficking	Over 10kg	2 to 10 Years Jail & NPR 15k-100k Fine

Warning: If you are caught with a large quantity (e.g., more than 100g), police will likely charge you with trafficking (sales), not just possession. Trafficking charges carry much heavier jail terms and are difficult to get bail for.

Is Bail Possible for Drug Cases?

• For Consumption: Yes, bail is possible. Often, authorities may release first-time consumers if they agree to undergo rehabilitation or sign a bond.
• For Trafficking: Getting bail is extremely difficult. The court usually orders “Purpaksha” (Judicial Custody), meaning you stay in jail until the final verdict is given, which can take 6-18 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is weed legal during Shivaratri in Nepal? A: Legally, no. While Sadhus (holy men) are traditionally tolerated during the festival at Pashupatinath, general public and tourists can still be arrested for smoking in public. Police conduct strict checks during the festival.

Q: Do tourists get a pass for smoking weed? A: Absolutely not. Foreigners are subject to the same laws as Nepali citizens. Being arrested for drugs can lead to deportation and a permanent ban from entering Nepal, after serving your jail sentence.

Q: What if I am caught with just one joint? A: You can technically be jailed for up to 1 month. However, in practice, police may hold you for investigation and might release you with a fine or warning if it’s a first offense, but this is entirely at their discretion. Do not risk it.

Q: Are CBD oils legal in Nepal? A: The law does not explicitly differentiate CBD from Cannabis extracts clearly yet. Importing CBD oil without a license is illegal and can be seized at customs.

Disclaimer: This article provides information based on the Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act. It is not legal advice. If you are facing drug charges, contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately.