Which States In India Have An Alcohol Ban? What Travellers Should Know

India's alcohol rules can vary sharply from one region to the next. For travellers, this can show up in surprising ways. A destination may welcome tourists throughout the year, yet still follow strict regulations on the sale or possession of alcohol. Some states enforce complete prohibition, while certain island territories and business districts follow their own administrative rules. These policies are driven by local law, governance, and long-standing regional frameworks. If you know where alcohol is available and where it is not, your trip planning becomes easier, especially when booking hotels, choosing meal plans, or understanding what to expect once you arrive. This guide outlines the states and territories in India that follow alcohol bans or controlled permissions so you can travel without confusion or last-minute surprises.

Dry States And Union Territories In India

A few Indian states and union territories follow complete prohibition. In these regions, the sale, consumption, possession, and transport of alcohol are illegal under local law.

1. Bihar

Bihar. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Bihar enforces a strict prohibition policy. Alcohol is banned, and violations can lead to penalties as outlined in state legislation.

2. Gujarat

Gujarat has followed prohibition since its formation. Alcohol is not legally available to residents or tourists except through limited permit systems that follow state guidelines.

3. Nagaland

Nagaland prohibits alcohol under state law, covering the sale, possession, and consumption of liquor. If you're visiting Nagaland, you'll have to travel further to Assam to get alcohol. It's the closest and most practical option. But remember that you cannot carry the alcohol you purchase there back to Nagaland.

4. Mizoram

Mizoram follows a regulated approach rather than full prohibition. The open sale of conventional liquor is restricted, but licensed channels exist. The state permits the regulated production and sale of locally made fruit wines, which support horticulture and small producers. Certain traditional brews may also be allowed for cultural or community use. Alcohol is not widely available, but limited access may exist in authorised urban outlets.

5. Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Lakshadweep maintains a largely alcohol-free system based on island regulations and local guidelines. Alcohol is permitted on Bangaram Island, designated as a tourism zone, and may be available at select approved resorts or licensed vessels. On most inhabited islands, alcohol remains prohibited.

Carrying alcohol into these regions, even if purchased legally elsewhere, is also an offence under local regulations.

Also Read: Not Goa Or Gujarat: Uttar Pradesh Was India's Most Visited State In 2025

Areas With Special Administrative Exceptions

Some destinations that fall within dry states operate under specific administrative frameworks that allow controlled access to alcohol.

• GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City)

Although Gujarat is a dry state, GIFT City operates with a special regulatory exemption that permits controlled sale and consumption of alcohol within its designated limits. Licensed hotels, restaurants, and clubs are allowed to serve alcohol under state oversight. Recent policy updates have eased access for non-resident visitors and foreign nationals, who can consume alcohol at authorised venues by presenting valid identification without requiring a separate liquor permit. Outside GIFT City, Gujarat's prohibition laws continue to apply fully.

• Island Regions With Limited Access

Island destinations often follow their own rules due to geography, administration, or tourism zoning.

Bangaram Island (Lakshadweep)

As the only island in Lakshadweep where alcohol is legally served, Bangaram operates as a dedicated tourism zone. Travellers visiting the rest of the archipelago should expect alcohol restrictions on most other islands.

Licensed Vessels And Resorts

In certain coastal or island territories, alcohol may be available on-board licensed vessels or in government-approved resorts that follow tourism-focused permissions. These exceptions are narrow and controlled.

Also Read: Which Indian State Is Called The Land Of The Rising Sun? Travel Tips To Watch The Perfect Sunrise

Temporary Alcohol Bans And Dry Days Across India

Even in places where alcohol is normally legal, temporary bans apply on specific days. These include:

• National holidays
• Election days and counting days
• Major public events
• Large gatherings or festivals, as declared by local authorities

Alcohol sales may be suspended for a day or for the duration of the event, depending on local notifications.

Travel Tips For Alcohol-Free Destinations

1. Check the alcohol laws of your destination before travelling.
2. Follow local regulations for possession and transport of alcohol.
3. Hotels and resorts must follow state rules regardless of category.
4. Dry states have strict penalties for violations.
5. If you prefer an occasional drink, plan your stay with these rules in mind.

Knowing these regulations helps you travel confidently, plan better, and avoid any unexpected restrictions during your trip.