Land Based Casinos by State in India
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While gambling is an activity that has been practised for centuries, Indian states are still quite adamant about licensing operators to provide legalized gambling activities. As a result, gambling is heavily restricted in most areas, with small exceptions for lotteries and horse race betting in certain regions. Only the states of Goa, Sikkim and more recently Daman have abolished a decades-old law to allow operators to establish land-based and floating casinos.
In this article, we are going to discover the most popular legal casinos in India and how Indian players can enjoy gambling at a safe casino within the territory, while looking at other options for those players who cannot travel too far from home.
| Did you know? |
|---|
| Only three regions in India — Goa, Sikkim, and Daman — legally allow casinos. Goa is famous for its floating casinos on the Mandovi River, while Sikkim and Daman permit resort-based casinos. Everywhere else, gambling is still largely restricted, with only lotteries and horse race betting allowed in certain states. |
Are land based casinos legal in India?
Casino gambling is not regulated at the national level but by individual states.
- Legal states: Goa, Sikkim, and Daman (though Daman’s casino is still non-operational).
- Banned states: Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu have prohibited online gambling; Karnataka has introduced restrictions as well.
- Others: Most states follow the Public Gambling Act, 1867, which prohibits casinos unless special state exemptions are made.
| State/UT | Legal Status | Key Casinos | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goa | ✅ Legal (floating & resort-based casinos) | Deltin Royale, Deltin Jaqk, Casino Pride, Casino Pride 2, Casino Paradise, Crown Casino | Offshore casinos on Mandovi river, luxury 5-star experiences |
| Sikkim | ✅ Legal (resort-based casinos) | Casino Sikkim, Casino Mahjong, Deltin Denzong | Mountain retreats, VIP gaming lounges, scenic views |
| Daman | ⚠️ Legal framework exists, but casino not operational yet | The Deltin (pending permit) | Planned 60,000 sq. ft casino, 150–200 tables |
| Other States | ❌ Prohibited (online & offline) | — | Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu banned online casinos |
| Did you know? |
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| Casinos in Goa attract more than 15% of the state’s annual tourism revenue. |
Goa Casinos – The Casino Capital of India
Goa is the richest region of India, with the highest GDPR in the country. Located on the coast with long stretches of sandy beaches, it is a prime tourist spot, attracting thousands of visitors each year. In terms of gambling, Goa is known as a primary location for casinos, with 4 floating venues and 6 land-based sites, offering a diversified range of games, entertainment and lavish dining options. The casino scenario is mainly dominated by two main companies Deltin Group and Pride Group.
Popular Casinos in Goa
Deltin Royale
- Largest luxury offshore casino in India
- 50+ classic and modern gaming tables
- Games: Poker, Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, Teen Patti, Slots
- VIP rooms with exclusive services
- Unlimited buffet dining & premium drinks
- Live entertainment shows onboard
Deltin Jaqk
- Family-friendly floating casino experience
- Separate entertainment zone for children
- Wide selection of games: Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, Andar Bahar
- Professional dealers ensuring global standards
- Restaurant with multi-cuisine options
- Anchored on Mandovi River at Panaji
Casino Pride
- Spread across 30,000 sq. ft with 3 floors
- 40+ gaming tables with a variety of games
- Outdoor weather deck for parties & events
- Games include Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, Texas Hold’em
- Fully stocked bars on every floor
- Multi-cuisine restaurant & rooftop BBQ
Casino Pride 2
- Modern floating casino with vibrant interiors
- Three spacious gaming decks with varied options
- International + Indian-origin games: Teen Patti, Rummy, Mang Patta
- Regular dance performances & live music
- Multiple dining and drinks options onboard
- Perfect for nightlife seekers in Goa
Casino Paradise (Neo Majestic Hotel)
- Located inside a luxury 5-star hotel
- 5,000 sq. ft casino space with stylish décor
- State-of-the-art digital gaming technology
- Robotic arm Baccarat & electronic Roulette machines
- Mix of live and electronic gaming tables
- Relaxing experience near Goa’s best beaches
Crown Casino (Crown Goa Resort)
- Hosted inside the upscale Crown Goa Resort
- Premium interiors with elegant atmosphere
- Games offered: Roulette, Texas Hold’em, Blackjack, Baccarat
- Packages available for hotel guests
- Professional croupiers & staff assistance
- Ideal for niche luxury gaming experiences
| Did you know? |
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| Floating casinos in Goa operate 24/7 and are accessible only via special ferry rides. |
Sikkim
With an economy mainly based on agriculture, the Sikkim government recognized the importance of boosting tourism, leading to the establishment of the first casino in the region in 2009. The success and increase in revenue led the government to issue additional permits for casinos, sports betting and lotteries. In the last 10 years, 3 casinos have opened their doors: Casino Sikkim, Casino Mahjong and Deltin Denzong Casino. Located within the immediate area of Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim,
Popular casinos in Sikkim
Casino Sikkim (Royal Plaza Hotel, Gangtok)
- First legal casino in Sikkim (opened in 2009)
- Located inside the 4-star Royal Plaza Hotel
- Offers classic games: Roulette, Flush, Blackjack & Baccarat
- Slot machines available for casual players
- Scenic Himalayan views enhance the experience
- Popular with tourists, climbers & religious visitors
Casino Mahjong (Mayfair Spa & Resort, Gangtok)
- Opened in 2011, operated by Trio Venture Pvt. Ltd.
- 7,000 sq. ft casino floor with luxury setup
- 15 live tables + dedicated poker room + VIP lounge
- Wide range of games: Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, Flush, Poker, Kitty, Marriage, Mini Flush
- Daily live performances & entertainment shows
- Lavish buffet dining with 5-star hospitality
Deltin Denzong Casino (Denzong Regency, Gangtok)
- Owned by Delta Corp, India’s only listed gaming company
- Located inside the luxury 5-star Denzong Regency resort
- Spread over 10 acres of scenic, wooded property
- Gaming tables include Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, Indian Flush & Silver
- Premium mountain retreat experience with luxury stay options
- Attracts high rollers and leisure travelers alike
| Did you know? |
|---|
| Sikkim was the first Indian state to legalize online gambling back in 2009. |
Daman
The Daman region forms part of the Union territory of India, known formerly as Daman and Diu. Located on the west coast of the vast Indian territory, this particular area was under Portuguese rule from the 16th Century till 1961, when it was returned to the Indian government. Due to this prolonged exposure to Portuguese influence, visitors will notice several architectural and cultural spheres, still reminiscent of Portuguese culture. Although the neighbouring state of Gujarat is better known as a tourist destination, visitors to Daman will discover a quiet place with plenty of opportunities to relax, friendly inhabitants, and wonderful places to explore.
Casinos in Daman
The Deltin Casino
- Located in Daman
- First casino outside Goa & Sikkim
- Part of a 5-star resort
- Planned 1,500 jobs
- 150–200 casino tables
- Owned by The Deltin Group
Online Casinos vs Land-based Casinos in India
| Aspect | Online Casinos | Land-based Casinos (Goa, Sikkim, Daman) |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Play from anywhere in India via desktop or mobile | Only available in limited regions (Goa, Sikkim, Daman) |
| Convenience | No need to travel hundreds of miles for a single night of play | Requires travel, hotel bookings, and additional expenses |
| Game Variety | Slots, RNG-based table games, bingo, scratch cards, sports betting | Classic table games (Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, Poker, Teen Patti, Andar Bahar, Slots) |
| Social Experience | Live Casino with real croupiers via streaming; interactive chat | Real-life social interaction with other players and dealers |
| Licensing & Safety | Offshore casinos licensed by UKGC, MGA, etc. ensure fairness & payouts | Regulated by Indian state laws; licensed only in Goa, Sikkim, Daman |
| Bonuses & Rewards | Generous welcome bonuses, free spins, loyalty points, tournaments with cash/tech prizes | Limited promotions; perks mostly include complimentary drinks, dining, or hotel packages |
| Cost Factor | Lower entry barrier; play with small deposits | Higher costs due to travel, stay, and luxury setup |
| Entertainment Value | Great for solo play, flexible timing | Offers nightlife, live shows, luxury hospitality & tourism experience |
| Did you know? |
|---|
| Land-based casinos offer a real-life atmosphere with live dealers, entertainment, and luxury resorts. |
Expand your casino opportunities
Although land or water-based casinos offer a sense of adventure that can’t compete with an online gambling platform, the latter might be a better option if gambling is prohibited in your region. With online casinos, you don’t have to travel to the nearest region for a night of gambling, but you can do so from the comforts of your home. Online casinos India, has it all, slot games, Blackjack, Baccarat, Poker, Roulette, Andar Bahr and many other games. And, with a Live Casino, you don’t have to miss out on an authentic casino experience.