Nepal

Nepal criminalized cannabis in 1976 under the Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act, ending a centuries-old tradition of legal cannabis use. Despite prohibition, cannabis grows abundantly in the wild across the country, and there have been recurring legislative proposals to re-legalize cannabis for medical and industrial purposes to boost the economy.

Ask the Expert about Nepal

Regulator

Ministry of Home Affairs — Narcotics Control Bureau

Key Legislation

Narcotic Drugs

Year Legalized

N/A (prohibited since 1976; legalization bills introduced but not passed)

Program Size

No legal cannabis program; periodic l...

Key Facts

Cannabis was legal and culturally integral in Nepal until the Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act of 1976, enacted under US pressure during the War on Drugs era
A parliamentary bill to legalize cannabis for medical and industrial use was introduced in 2020 and has gained significant political support
Wild cannabis (bhang) grows prolifically across Nepal's hills and was traditionally used in religious festivals, particularly during Maha Shivaratri
Nepal was once home to famous cannabis shops in Kathmandu's 'Freak Street' that attracted international visitors in the 1960s-70s
Industrial hemp cultivation for fiber and export has been proposed as an economic development strategy, with advocates citing Nepal's ideal growing climate

Key Legislation

Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act 2033 (1976)

Regulatory Body

Ministry of Home Affairs — Narcotics Control Bureau

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Asia-Pacific

Tier

Tier 3 — Restricted

Status

Cannabis — Restricted

Sources

Ministry of Home Affairs — Nepal Nepal Law Commission

Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.