The Kerala government has approved a new liquor policy for 2025-26 that eases restrictions on dry days, aiming to support tourism and hospitality businesses.
Under the updated rules, hotels rated three-star and above will now be allowed to serve liquor on dry days — but only for specific events like weddings, international conferences, or other approved functions.
Dry days are days when the sale of alcohol is typically banned, usually during national holidays, elections, or major religious festivals. While consumption isn’t always restricted, bars and liquor stores must remain shut.
Now, with the new policy:
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Hotels must get prior approval from the Excise Commissioner by submitting event details.
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Bars in these hotels and all other bars, including state-run BEVCO outlets, must still remain closed on dry days.
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The relaxation applies only to liquor served during the approved events.
Additionally, the cabinet has allowed luxury cruises with five-star facilities to obtain bar licenses and serve liquor onboard.
Other key points:
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The bar license fee stays unchanged at ₹35 lakh per year.
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Toddy shops must still maintain a 400-meter distance from schools and religious places. Despite protests from trade unions — which claim over 1,000 toddy shops have closed due to this rule — the regulation remains in place.
With these changes, Kerala aims to strike a balance between encouraging tourism and maintaining control over liquor distribution.
