Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card

Alcohol / Spirits → India

Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-04-25

RESTRICTED

2L duty-free; state-level restrictions apply

Details

India allows travelers to bring 2 liters of alcohol duty-free. Quantities above the allowance face customs duty of 150% or more. Some Indian states (Gujarat, Bihar, Mizoram, Nagaland) prohibit alcohol entirely — even possessing alcohol in these states is illegal regardless of where it was purchased.

Quantity limit

2 liters duty-free

Documentation required

Indian Customs declaration for quantities above duty-free allowance

Legal reference

Indian Customs Act 1962, State Excise Laws

IATA dangerous goods

Alcohol / Spirits is classified under Class 3 — Flammable liquids. Cabin and checked-baggage limits apply on top of customs rules.

Practical advice

Declare alcohol / spirits at customs on arrival in India and carry any documentation specified in the rule. Verify current requirements with Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) before travel.

Customs authority

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) · https://www.cbic.gov.in