Gujarat is famous for being a dry state, meaning that the buying, selling, manufacturing, and consumption of alcohol are heavily regulated and effectively banned. But what if we told you that there is a legal way to get alcohol in Gujarat? There are certain specific circumstances under which you can legally purchase and consume alcohol in Gujarat. From permit laws to the application process, here are all the important details that you would need to know about this interesting caveat for consuming alcohol in the dry state of Gujarat.
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As mentioned previously, under certain special circumstances, it is possible to legally purchase alcohol in Gujarat. This can be done via the state’s permit system that allows tourists, foreign nationals, NRIs, and certain local residents to get alcohol from certain government-authorized outlets. Here is who can apply for this permit:
If you’re a tourist with an Indian passport and are staying at approved hotels, you are qualified to apply for the permit. As a matter of fact, certain premium hotels might even help you in getting this permit.
Those foreign nationals and non-resident Indians (NRIs) who are in possession of valid travel documents can also apply for this permit to purchase alcohol in Gujarat legally.
Certain local Gujarat residents can get a health permit for alcohol provided they meet strict criteria. If you fall under this category, you may be required to submit valid medical documentation along with identity-related documents.
Before we get into the step-by-step application guide, here is a list of documents that you will need. Please note that all of these documents will be required as hard copies. You cannot submit a soft copy for any of these documents.
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1. Identification Document
This can either be your passport, your voter ID, your driver’s license, or your PAN card. It is important to note, however, that your Aadhaar card does not count as a valid identification document for this purpose.
2. Travel Tickets And Boarding Pass
If you came by plane, you will need to produce your flight tickets, including return tickets, and boarding passes. Those who traveled by train will need to produce a confirmed train ticket for approval of the permit.
3. Hotel Booking Confirmation Or Address Proof And Signed Declaration
If you are staying at a hotel, you will need to submit your hotel booking confirmation along with a signed stay certificate provided by the hotel. If you are staying as a guest at someone’s place, you will need their address proof, like an electricity bill, for instance. In addition to this, they must also provide a signed declaration stating their full name, address, and contact number, affirming that they are, indeed, your host for the stipulated time period.
Important Note: Make sure you check the latest documentation requirements, as legal procedures keep changing regularly.
What is more, you can head to the official e-permit website of Gujarat, where you will find a step-by-step guide on how to apply in simple language. You must also produce a hard copy of any two documents among your passport, driver’s license, PAN card, and voter ID.
Once you submit your proof of stay and proof of return, your application will be created. After due process, your information will be verified, and once this is done, your permit will be created and can be printed to purchase liquor legally.
Also Read: Ladakh Excise Policy Eases Restrictions On Liquor Sale
Once you get your permit, there are still certain rules you are required to follow. There is only a designated quota of alcohol you are allowed to purchase, based on the type of spirit you are getting. Even then, you can only drink in private behind closed doors, and public drinking is strictly prohibited.
If you are above the age of 21, head to the official website of the Prohibition and Excise Department of Gujarat. There, you will find a list of authorized liquor stores and distributors from which you can get alcohol legally.
Also Read: Uttar Pradesh Excise Revenue Hits INR 57,722 Crore in FY 2025-26
So, the next time you visit Gujarat and have plans of drinking alcohol legally, you know now what you need to do. While the process isn’t exactly easy or convenient, it does offer an avenue for certain tourists to get alcohol legally in the dry state of Gujarat.
