As a visitor to India, you might want to try your luck with gambling while exploring the country. India’s gambling scene is tightly regulated, with options limited to specific states and activities. This guide covers casinos, horse race betting, and lotteries, including where they’re legal, how to participate, and practical tips to make your experience safe and enjoyable. We’ve included updated details as of 2025, based on current laws, to help you plan. Remember, gambling should be for fun—set a budget and know the risks.
Casinos in India
Casinos offer a mix of excitement and entertainment, often with live music, food, and games like slots, roulette, blackjack, and poker. They’re a popular draw for tourists, especially in Goa where they double as nightlife spots. However, they’re only legal in three states/union territories:
Goa, Sikkim, and the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (commonly referred to as Daman for casino purposes).
⚠️ Warning ⚠️ Casinos and any form of gambling are illegal in all other states and union territories of India. Stick to these spots to avoid legal issues—fines or arrests are possible elsewhere.
- Number of Casinos: Goa has about 10 casinos (including onshore and offshore), Sikkim has 2, and Daman has 1. These numbers can fluctuate slightly with new openings or closures, but Goa dominates with the most options.
- Types of Casinos: In Goa, you’ll find land-based casinos in five-star hotels like the Marriott or Hyatt, and unique floating casinos on the Mandovi River (e.g., Deltin Royale or Casino Pride). These riverboats add a scenic twist, cruising while you play. Sikkim offers only land-based casinos, such as Casino Mahjong in Gangtok. Daman’s casino is land-based at a resort.
- Entry Restrictions: Entry is typically restricted to those 21 and older (check specific casino rules, as it might vary by 1-2 years). No exceptions for tourists.
- Dress Code: Most enforce smart casual—think collared shirts, pants, and closed shoes for men; avoid shorts, flip-flops, or sportswear. Women can wear dresses or jeans with tops.
- Carry ID: Always bring a valid government-issued photo ID (passport for foreigners) for entry and age verification. Photocopies won’t suffice.
- Currency Exchange: Casinos accept Indian Rupees (INR) primarily. Some, especially in Goa, handle major foreign currencies like USD or EUR, but exchange rates might not be favorable. ATMs are available inside, but check fees. Credit cards are accepted for chips.
- Additional Insights:
- Entry Fees: In Goa, expect to pay ₹2,000–5,000 per person (about $24–60 USD), which often includes play coupons, snacks, or drinks. Unlimited food and alcohol packages can add ₹1,000–3,000 more. Sikkim and Daman fees are similar but lower on weekdays.
- Popular Games and Tips: Slots are beginner-friendly with low stakes (₹10–100 per spin). Table games start at ₹500 minimum bets. For poker fans, Goa hosts tournaments—check schedules on casino websites. Avoid peak hours (evenings and weekends) to skip crowds; mornings are quieter.
- Getting There: Fly into Goa (GOI airport) and take a 30–45 minute taxi to Panaji for river casinos. Sikkim’s casinos are in Gangtok, accessible by flight to Bagdogra then a 4-hour drive. Daman is a 3-hour drive from Mumbai—great for a day trip.
- Tourist Tip: Combine casino visits with local sights. In Goa, gamble at night after beach days; in Sikkim, pair it with Himalayan treks. Responsible gaming is emphasized—casinos have self-exclusion options if needed.
- Updates for 2025: No new states have legalized casinos, but Goa continues to expand with luxury additions. Online casinos remain in a gray area and are often blocked; stick to physical ones.
💡 Pro Tip 💡 Book entry tickets online via casino apps or sites like BookMyShow to avoid lines. Foreigners get priority in some places, but confirm COVID-era rules like vaccination proof if still in effect.
Betting in India
Betting adds thrill to sports, but in India, it’s strictly limited to horse racing, seen as a “game of skill” by courts. Other sports betting (cricket, football) is illegal nationwide, so don’t risk apps or underground bookies.
- Horse Racing: Legal in all states and union territories, with organized events drawing crowds of enthusiasts and casual bettors.
- Venues: Races happen at major tracks in cities like Bangalore (Bangalore Turf Club), Chennai (Madras Race Club), Hyderabad (Hyderabad Race Club), Mumbai and Pune (Royal Western India Turf Club), Delhi (Delhi Race Club), Mysore (Mysore Race Club), Ooty (Ooty Race Club), and Kolkata (Royal Calcutta Turf Club). These are historic spots with grandstands and facilities.
- Taxes: Betting winnings are heavily taxed—up to 30% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on amounts over ₹10,000. Factor this in when calculating potential payouts.
- On-Course Betting: Done at the racetrack. Buy tickets from betting windows or tote machines. Minimum bets start at ₹10–50. Study form books or apps for horse stats.
- Online Betting: Legal via reputable platforms like Indiabet or official turf club sites. Choose licensed ones (e.g., those tied to RWITC) for security. Apps offer live streaming and odds.
- Additional Insights:
- Seasons and Events: Racing seasons vary—November to March in cooler north (Delhi, Kolkata); year-round in south but with monsoon breaks (June–September). Major events include the Indian Derby (Mumbai, February) with prizes over ₹5 crore, or Bangalore Summer Derby.
- Costs and Tips: Entry to tracks is ₹50–200; VIP enclosures ₹500+. Bets can be win/place (simple) or exotic (quinella, trifecta) for higher odds. Newbies: Watch a few races first, use free guides at venues.
- Getting There: Most tracks are near city centers—e.g., Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse is 20 minutes from South Mumbai. Taxis or metros work well.
- Tourist Tip: It’s a social scene—meet locals, enjoy trackside food like kebabs or chaat. Women have dedicated areas at some venues for comfort.
- Updates for 2025: Horse racing faces challenges from high GST (28% on bets), pushing some to illegal options, but legal venues remain strong. No bans, despite past regional restrictions (e.g., historical in Tamil Nadu, now lifted).
⚠️ Warning ⚠️ Betting on any other sport is illegal across all states and union territories. Avoid international apps, as they could lead to account freezes or legal trouble.
💡 Pro Tip 💡 Download turf club apps for real-time odds and results. For safety, bet small and cash out winnings immediately to avoid carrying cash.
Lotteries in India
Lotteries are a low-stakes way to dream big, with government-run draws offering life-changing prizes. They’re popular among locals and easy for travelers to join in permitted areas.
- Legality: Legal in 13 states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Sikkim. Some union territories may allow sales from these states.
- Other States/UTs: Lottery is illegal in all other states and union territories—don’t buy tickets there.
- How It Works: Tickets are sold by government-authorized vendors. Draws happen at set times (daily, weekly) with prizes based on matching numbers. Structures vary—e.g., Kerala lotteries draw 6–8 numbers from 1–50; Nagaland might use bumper draws with bigger jackpots.
- Playing the Lottery:
- Age Restriction: You must be 18 or older to buy a ticket. ID may be checked for big wins.
- Buying Tickets: Find authorized vendors with the state lottery department logo (e.g., Kerala State Lotteries stalls). Available at bus stands, markets, or online via official sites in some states.
- Choosing Numbers: Pick based on the format—manual selection or quick-pick. Tickets cost ₹20–500.
- Results: Check official websites (e.g., keralalotteries.com), newspapers, or vendors. Apps notify winners.
- Additional Insights:
- Popular Lotteries: Kerala offers daily draws like Win-Win (₹75 lakh top prize); Sikkim has Dear Lottery (₹1 crore bumpers); Nagaland runs multiple daily lotteries. Goa and Maharashtra focus on weekly ones.
- Prizes and Odds: Top prizes range from ₹50 lakh to ₹25 crore. Odds are better than international lotteries (1 in 10,000 for small wins). Claim prizes within 30–90 days with ID and ticket.
- As a Traveler: Buy in legal states during visits—e.g., pick up a Kerala ticket while beach-hopping in Kochi. It’s a fun souvenir; many tourists join for the thrill.
- Taxes: Winnings over ₹10,000 face 30% tax. Foreigners may need to handle via embassy for large amounts.
- Updates for 2025: No changes to the 13 states, but online sales are expanding in legal areas. International lotteries remain gray—stick to local.
⚠️ Warning ⚠️ Online lotteries: While some international ones exist, their legality for residents or visitors in India is unclear. It’s best to avoid them to prevent issues with payments or laws.
🚨 Scam Alert 🚨 Be cautious of unofficial vendors or schemes promising higher returns. Only participate in government-run lotteries—look for holograms on tickets.
💡 Pro Tip 💡 Buy from busy vendors to ensure authenticity. For big draws, purchase multiple tickets but keep it affordable. Track results via state apps for convenience.
Final Thoughts
Gambling in India can be a highlight of your trip if done responsibly in legal spots. It offers a glimpse into local entertainment, from Goa’s vibrant casino nights to the excitement of a Mumbai horse race. Always prioritize safety, verify rules on-site, and enjoy the cultural side—many Indians view lotteries as hopeful traditions during festivals.
Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Laws can change, so always consult official sources like state government websites or local authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate regulations in specific locations. If you’re unsure, skip it—India has plenty of other adventures!
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