Cannabis in Nepal
Marijuana and hemp are hugely accessible in Nepal. Cannabis grows naturally in fields, along roads, and is cultivated. I have found myself mesmerized by the natural beauty of the Himalayan Mountains, only to realize later I was standing next to some Cannabis plants. The beautiful thing about Cannabis in Nepal is that it has such a rich cultural heritage.
A Little History On Cannabis In Nepal
Nepal has a long association with marijuana. Since ancient times, people used it on the farm to feed animals, for recreational use, as well as medicinal purposes, and for spiritual worship.
Genetic Diversity and Origins
Cannabis originated in Central Asia, probably in or around Mongolia or southern Siberia in 10,000 BC. From there it was traded, farmed, and became naturalized in southern Asia, middle east and rest of the world. It is believed to have been introduced into Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Nepal around 2,000 BC.
During this time many genetic variations developed. Landraces became adapted to Himalayan as well as southern tropical climates. We now have strains named after their geographical region such as Hindu Kush, and Baglung.
Cultural Acceptance
Another very important development was occurring in India at the same time Cannabis was being introduced. It was the creation of Hinduism. To put it in perspective, it is one of the oldest religions in the world. Cannabis is referenced multiple times in the Vedas. One of my favorite religious stories involves cannabis.
The Samudra Manthan tells the story about how the Hindu Gods nearly destroyed all of creation by stirring the ocean with a venomous snake god. If you’re thinking “that sounds carzy!” You’re right, it is, and I don’t completely understand it either.
While they were stirring the ocean, the snake released its venom, which threatened all life on earth. A God named Shiva quickly came and drank the poison but kept it in his throat. The Poison Turned him blue and caused him great pain. To deal with the pain he smokes cannabis.
Cannabis is still used to relieve pain in Nepal and India. It is also used for feeding livestock, making textile products such as baskets, paper, and cloths, and the seeds are ground into a past that is eaten as a garnish with certain foods.
The Price of Cannabis in Nepal
Getting cannabis may have become a little more difficult as compared to old times. However, enthusiasm remains high for the better. As more and more tourists are seeking to get that Nirvana experience, getting the chance to smoke cannabis is increasing. This makes Nepal one of the ideal places for advocating “Cannabis for the Culture” motto.
Interestingly, you can get a chance for a puff or two from the sadhus sitting at the temples.
You can get it for free growing in fields and along roads. But please do not harvest a farmer’s plant without his or her permission. Farmers may charge you $1 or $2 for a handful of uncut flowers.
A bhang lassi will cost $2 to $3 dollars in Pokhara. Bhang is the Indian word for hash. When it is added to the lassi drink, it makes the experience uplifting.
Cannabis Strains in Nepal
Nepal is among the few nations across the globe to provide a home for cannabis landraces. The country has an old history of marijuana consumption for recreational and medicinal use.
Although Cannabis is officially illegal in Nepal, one can find many popular strains of Cannabis in Kathmandu as well as other popular places through many distributors and sellers. Moreover, cannabis is legal on special occasions, such as the Shivaratri Festival.
Cannabis landraces bred into Strains
Many of the Nepali landraces were selected for the sativa uplifting qualities, for their growth habit, or early maturity. These strains were bred with other cultivars to produce muddled crosses. Some of them include
- Nepali OG
- Nepalese Jam
- Nepal Gold
- Nepali Queen
- Hytiva Nepalese Dragon
- Cannason Nepal, and others.
None of which, in my opinion, are as good as the originals.
Hemp Plants and Fiber
Hemp is one of the fastest-growing plants in the world and has been used by Nepalese to make fabric for years. Natural pure hemp yarn from the Himalayan regions of Nepal is used to make cloths, rugs, and other fabrics. After harvest, the stems are soaked in water for about 20 days. After the required period, the tender bark is detached from the plant, smoked directly above a fire, and then boiled in ash water. Finally, fine strips are separated from the bark by hand.
You can find a variety of products, including hemp clothing, hemp Laptop Bags and hemp backpack in a variety of colours and designs. These products are available throughout Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you are interested in the process, our textile tour might be something to investigate.
Conclusion
If you like marijuana and enjoy incredible mountain views along with ancient cultures, then a Himalayan Cannabis Tour is a must for you.