Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. India law
Cannabis laws in Rishikesh follow India’s national law. The rules here are set by the broader jurisdiction, and city-level differences are uncommon.
Under the law, recreational and medical cannabis are illegal. In practice, bhang preparations are often tolerated in certain religious contexts. Possession of other cannabis products can lead to penalties.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Not available
- Possession: Illegal (limited traditional exceptions)
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Subject to enforcement risk
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Law Enforcement
Some police may target foreigners buying weed. People claimed only 10% of those caught were convicted and that baksheesh, a bribe, would get you out of a jam.
Neither claim was backed up.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Right along the Ganga, a little past the man selling chillums, there was a sadhu with good hash. Israeli travelers who came for hash sometimes knew where to find him.
Marijuana Prices
₹20 for a few grams. Seriously low quality, but there wasn’t much else on offer.