Land Based Casino In Goa

1. Land Based Casino In Goa Latest
2. Land Based Casino In Goa India

• How to Bet Goa – Pearl of the Orient. There is no doubt that Goa is the biggest gambling hotspot in the country. As the host of 16 legal casinos both on land and on water, it is, quite unsurprisingly, the source of the vast majority of the land-based gambling activity in the country.
• Texas Hold'em is the most Land Based Casino In Goa popular poker game in the world, but three card poker is one of the quickest to learn. Best for Skilled Players 2 Play for fun without risking any money.
• Last month, Goa's state government approved stiff hikes in license fees and other mandatory payments for both the land-based casinos operating out of hotels and resorts as well as the floating casinos plying their trade on the Mandovi river.

#2 of 14 Casinos & Gambling in Goa 'The Deltin Jaqk has three main floors, the Ground Floor is dedicated to the Kid's Zone, the First Floor is the main gaming casino and the Second Floor is where the restaurant plus live entertainment is located.'

Goa, Sikkim, and the union territory of Daman and Diu are the only places in India where you can legally play casino games. The casinos in Goa are the most popular, offering a range of games and entertainment. There are many food and dining options as well. Managed professionally, many of them are 5-star facilities, attracting thousands of Indian and international tourists.

The first casino house in Goa opened in the late 1990s, and since then, they have become hugely popular. Thousands visit them every year. Gambling is a billion dollar industry in India, with Goa contributing a lot of this money. In 2013 for instance, the Goa casinos contributed almost 20 million US dollars to the state revenue.

There are two types of casinos in Goa:

• Land-based casinos (onshore);
• Ship casinos (offshore).

Offshore casinos were established as the Indian laws did not allow gambling on Indian land, but there was no regulation on water. In time, the laws were changed, allowing legal gambling in Goa, but some of the best casinos in the state are still on the decks of ships, along the Mandovi River and around Panaji. Many of them provide international level luxury and experiences.

Some of the offshore casinos also have onshore facilities. However, the onshore casinos can only have electronic games.

The Goa government is now trying to attract more tourists by letting more operators open casinos and gambling houses in Goa.

Casinos In Goa – Highlights

Casino Royale Goa

Popularly known as the Deltin Royale, this is the largest offshore and the most popular casino in Goa. With poker rooms, board games, slot machines, VIP-rooms and halls, an amphitheater and bar, you will get a Las Vegas experience here.

Games – 50 classical board games, slots machines, blackjack, teen patti, American roulette, baccarat, Indian Flush, and a room only for poker.

• Offshore casino on the Mandovi River in Panaji.
• There are 6 decks and 3 gaming floors.
• VIP-rooms, halls, amphitheater, helicopter platform.
• Sky Bar, Whiskey Lounge that is well stocked with single malts and hand-rolled cigars, and signature restaurant ‘Vegas' offering a large buffet spread.
• Dance and music performances.

Address – Noah's Ark, RND Jetty, Dayanand Bandodkar Road, Panaji

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Only smart casual. Sleeveless shirts, sandals, flip-flops, and shorts are not allowed.

Prices – 2,000 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 3,000 INR Friday to Sunday. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

Carnival Casino

A new casino, but it has become very popular. There is an offshore casino and an onshore one too at the Goa Marriott hotel in Miramar beach. A huge range of games and entertainment options!

Games – American Roulette, blackjack, baccarat, 5-card poker, slots machines, progressive jackpots. The largest selection of slots in Goa!

• Offshore casino on the Mandovi River. Onshore casino inside Marriott hotel in Miramar beach, North Goa.
• 4 decks, 2 gaming floors.
• Children's area, restaurants.
• Theme music, entertainment shows by local and international artists.
• Exclusive entertainment deck.
• Private parties at Boa Sorte, the rooftop deck.

Address – Goa Marriott Resort & Spa in Miramar, Mandovi River, Panaji.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 1,500 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person and play coupon of 1,000 rupees. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, and unlimited food.

MV Caravela

This casino is also owned by the Deltin group. This was the first floatel casino in India, offering both luxurious accommodation and casino gaming. Guest suites and rooms, many games to choose from, food and drinks! MV Caravela is located on the Mandovi River in Panaji.

Games – American Roulette, flash, baccarat, Caribbean poker, blackjack, slots.

• 80 gaming positions, more than 10 games, 17 gaming tables.
• Several guest rooms and suites, including an extravagant two-level Mansion Suite with its own private gaming tables.
• Suites made with mahogany, gold, and amber shades.
• On-deck Jacuzzi, spa, babysitting, onboard library.
• Fine dining, bar on the sundeck, outdoor swimming pool.

Address – Fisheries Jetty, Fisheries Department Building, (opposite Mandovi Hotel), Panaji.

Land Based Casino In Goa Latest

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 3, 000 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 4,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Separate package for couple's. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

Casino Pride

Extremely popular, Casino Pride is also located on the Mandovi River in a beautiful 30,000 sq. ft. vessel. Cheaper than Deltin Royale! More than 500 guests can play games here at one time. It is popular with the Indian high-rollers.

Games – Flush, mini flush, 5-card poker, Texas Hold'em poker, rummy, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, slots machines.

• 3 floors, 30,000 square feet, 40 gaming tables.
• Multi-cuisine restaurants, well-stocked bar, barbeque.
• 10,000 square feet Weather Deck for parties.
• Entertainment, Bollywood-style live acts. Live entertainment between 9 PM and 11 PM.
• Big poker tournaments.
• Room for kids full of the latest electronic games.
• Gold embellish ceilings.

Address – Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 1,500 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

King's Casino

A smaller, but more intense offshore casino on the Mandovi River! This casino can accommodate 150 guests at any time. It is on board the sleek catamaran, MV. Arabian Sea King.

Games – American Roulette, high-limit, blackjack, 3-card stud, baccarat, pontoon, slots machines, video poker.

• In a small catamaran offering a more intense casino gaming experience.
• 5 video slots, 5 mega jack slot machines
• More intimate setting than the bigger casinos.
• Can accommodate 150 guests.
• Restaurant and bar, live entertainment.
• Restrooms
• Creche

Address – On the Mandovi River in a catamaran, Panaji.

Timing – Daily, 5 PM to 10 AM

Regulations – Players only

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 5,000 INR. Rupees 4,500 worth of non-negotiable chips.

Maharajah Casino

Land Based Casino In Goa India

Maharajah Casino by Big Daddy ship is also on the Mandovi River in Panaji. It is further into the water. Many gaming and entertainment options on the ship!

Games – Roulette, baccarat, blackjack, katti or andar bahar, rashi wheel, 3-card and 5-card poker, mini flash, mang patta, rummy, Indian flash, Texas Hold'em poker.

• 4 decks, 20,000 square meter
• New luxurious interior
• Restaurants, bars, buffet
• Live dance performances, live orchestra, DJ nights, poker nights

Address – Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – Regular and Premium packages. The cost varies between 2,000 INR and 3,500 INR for weekdays, and 1,500 and 4,500 for Friday-Sunday. VIP packages cost 6,000 INR for all days of the week.

Dunes Casino

This is a luxury land-based casino in South Goa, close to the Varca beach. It is located inside the Zuri White Sands Resort. A relatively smaller casino, but there are many games on display! There are many entertainment and food options.

Games – Blackjack, baccarat, roulette, rummy, mini flash, 2-card poker.

• 4 table games, 20 gaming machines.
• 4,000 square feet gaming area.
• 6 restaurants, gymnasiums, salon, spa
• Swimming pool, activity center

Address – The Zuri White Sands Resort & Casino, Pedda, Varca.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 700 INR entry fee. No inclusions.

Casino Pearl

Casino Pearl is located within the Bogmallo Beach resort, very close to the Goa International Airport at Dabolim. The resort is located on the Bogmallo beach. This is the largest casino in South Goa.

55555 poker chips. Games – Roulette, baccarat, blackjack, tai-sai, slots machines.

• 1 table game, 26 gaming machines.
• 4,000 square feet gaming area.
• Robotic Arm Baccarat station is appreciated by the players.
• Restaurants, bars, salon, spa, fitness center
• Deluxe, superior rooms

Address – Bogmallo Beach Resort, Vasco da Gama.

Craps 6 8 betting strategy strategies. Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 500 INR entry fee. Unlimited food, drinks, and snacks while playing.

Chances Casino

Chances Casino is located at the Vainguinim Valley Resort Hotel, which is 200 meters from the Vainguinim beach in South Goa. This is the oldest onshore casino in Goa. Popular with the locals and regular players! It still uses the traditional coin slot machines.

Games – American Roulette, mini baccarat, blackjack, digital blackjack, slots machines, Royal Ascot Horse Racing.

• Largest gaming floor in Goa — 30,000 sq ft.
• VIP gaming rooms
• Restaurants, bars.
• Live music every Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
• Kids garden
• Spa, pool

Address – 184/189, Machado's Cove, Dona Paula.

Timing – 11 AM to 4 AM

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 750 INR entry fee. Unlimited drinks and snacks included.

Casino Strike

This Casino is located within the lavish Grand Hyatt Hotel at Bambolim in South Goa. Launched in 2016, this is the biggest casino in India. Plenty of gaming options!

Games – Roulette, baccarat, money wheel, Indian flush, blackjack, slots machines, casino war, andar bahar.

• 3 floors of gaming space floor for high rollers, VIP floor.
• Latest slots machines and other games not available anywhere else in India.
• Live performances, Russian dancers, DJ shows every night.
• 3 pools, spa, steam room, hot tubs, gymnasium.
• Crèche for infants, playstation for teenagers.

Address – Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bambolim.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 1,500 INR Monday to Thursday. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday. Unlimited drinks while gaming and buffet dinner included. One-time gaming chips.

Casino Palms

Casino Palms is located within the La Calypso Hotel, which is close to the Baga beach in North Goa. This is one of the most relaxed gaming houses in Goa.

Games – Roulette, machine poker, baccarat, mini flush, blackjack, slots machines.

• Largest and most spacious casino (onshore) in North Goa.
• Many exciting games to choose from.
• Restaurants, bars, ayurvedic massage.
• Spa, swimming pool.

Address – No. 7/129-B, Saunta Vadoo, Calangute-Baga Road, Bardez, Baga.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 1,000 INR for all days of the week. Unlimited food and drinks.

Here are some other good land-based casinos in Goa –

• The Leela Palace – At The Leela Palace in Cavelossim, South Goa
• Hacienda De Oro – At the Holiday Inn Hotel in Cavelossim, South Goa
• Goldfinger – At the Cidade de Goa Hotel in Calangute, North Goa
• Treasure – At the Majorda Beach Resort Hotel in Majorda, South Goa
• Mint Club – At the Rivera De Goa Resort Hotel in Calangute, North Goa

Gambling enthusiasts generally have a tough time in India. Out of the 29 states in the country, only two allow casinos – Goa, and Sikkim. A union territory, Daman (formerly a part of Goa), also has casinos. Goa online casino is very popular in the country and throughout the world.

And even here, they are allowed only under a stringent set of terms and regulations. As per the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976, casinos can only be set up in five-star hotels or offshore vessels with the prior permission of the Government.
I think we all know how one is expected to procure this 'prior permission' from the Government, but that is a topic better left for another article.

Thanks to the aforementioned rule, the number of legitimate casinos in India is so few in number, we might as well enlist them here. The State of Sikkim has three casinos – Casino Sikkim, Casino Mahjong, and Deltin Denzong. Goa boasts sixteen casinos – ten of them are based on land and the other six floating on the Mandovi River.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, there were big plans to bring Macau-like mega gambling resorts to Goa, mainly near the Mopa Airport currently under construction in northern Goa.

Online Betting from Goa

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Goa – Pearl of the Orient

There is no doubt that Goa is the biggest gambling hotspot in the country. As the host of 16 legal casinos both on land and on water, it is, quite unsurprisingly, the source of the vast majority of the land-based gambling activity in the country.
Compared to bordering states like Karnataka and Maharashtra, Goa is a tiny state with a small population of approximately just 1.8 million people. In contrast, Karnataka is estimated to have a population of approximately 62 million and Maharashtra 114 million.

Despite this fact, Goa still leads the charts in terms of gambling activity, followed by Sikkim, another small state in Northeast India. Together, they make up for almost 90% of all the legal gambling that takes place in the country.

As a coastal state, Goa is especially successful in the casino business because it can allow both land-based casinos and offshore vessel casinos. These vessels are like the Riverboat Casinos famous in the US Southern states. The boat casinos have a significant advantage over land-based casinos – they are allowed to host board games which are illegal at land casinos.

With its sun-kissed beaches and green hills, this enchanting state has always attracted tourists. In the 1980s and 90s, there was a decline in visitors to the state, as other destinations with casinos, like Nepal, started becoming more popular. The State Government led by Raj Naik decided to bring casino gambling to attract more visitors to Goa. To this end, the government made small amendments to the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act of 1976:

26[13A].Authorised Game.- (1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, the Government may authorised any game of electronic amusement/slot machines in Five Star Hotels 27 and such table games and gaming on board in vessels offshore as may be notified} subject to such conditions, including payment of such recurring and non-recurring fees, as may be prescribed.

These four lines that the Goa legislative council slipped into section 13 of the Public Gambling Act of Goa back in 1992 is what makes gambling and casinos legal on Goan soil and Goan waters.

It is also responsible for attracting millions of Indian and foreign tourists to Goa throughout the year. Another amendment, which deals with off-shore casinos and essentially allows these off-shore casinos to operate in Goa was drafted and introduced in 1996 by the State Government and the Chief Minister at the time – Pratapsing Rane.

In 2012, the latest Goan state legislation regarding gambling was officially adopted. The amendment to the bill was passed by the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Digambar Kamat. The newly added sub-clause served to legalize the transfer of licenses of off-shore casinos with paying an amount that could go up to a staggering 6.5 crore per license transfer.
This amount has been capped at 6.5 crores but starts at a meagre 2 lakhs. It has proved itself as a great method of revenue generation. It has been proposed that the money raised by such measures will go into setting up gambling de-addiction and rehabilitation centres all across Goa which will help people that are suffering from addiction to overcome their vices.

As mentioned earlier, Goa is not very populous and it is also the smallest state in the country. It is financially inclined to rely on its thriving tourism industry. And the vast majority of local Goan residents do not use the casinos – it is mainly foreign and domestic tourists who visit these places.

As a result, gambling and casinos directly affect tourism in this region. It is critical that such activities aren't outlawed, if anything, they need to be encouraged and the procedure that dictates the opening and operating of such casinos need to be relaxed and made easier.

Politicians recognized these facts and Goa became the first state in the country to legalize gambling and give out licenses to casinos. The minimum legal age to gamble was and still is set at 18. Like with most legislative subjects, there were two sides to the gambling coin, it had to face considerable opposition from some locals.

Over the decades, the casino gambling business has assumed great importance in Goa, particularly in politics. Many political parties and leaders have used opposition to casinos to win elections, only to allow the casinos to continue operating once they come to power.

The late Manohar Parrikar, former Chief Minister and Central Defence Minister had taken a stance against land-based casino resorts and boat casinos on several occasions over the years. But his BJP government did not bother to shut down these casinos despite having a popular mandate.

The situation with the off-shore boat casinos outside Panaji on the river Mandovi in these last few years is a case in point. The local civic body has been threatening these casinos with closure or revoked licenses unless they relocate to other spots away from Panaji.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 1,500 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person and play coupon of 1,000 rupees. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, and unlimited food.

MV Caravela

This casino is also owned by the Deltin group. This was the first floatel casino in India, offering both luxurious accommodation and casino gaming. Guest suites and rooms, many games to choose from, food and drinks! MV Caravela is located on the Mandovi River in Panaji.

Games – American Roulette, flash, baccarat, Caribbean poker, blackjack, slots.

• 80 gaming positions, more than 10 games, 17 gaming tables.
• Several guest rooms and suites, including an extravagant two-level Mansion Suite with its own private gaming tables.
• Suites made with mahogany, gold, and amber shades.
• On-deck Jacuzzi, spa, babysitting, onboard library.
• Fine dining, bar on the sundeck, outdoor swimming pool.

Address – Fisheries Jetty, Fisheries Department Building, (opposite Mandovi Hotel), Panaji.

Land Based Casino In Goa Latest

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 3, 000 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 4,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Separate package for couple's. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

Casino Pride

Extremely popular, Casino Pride is also located on the Mandovi River in a beautiful 30,000 sq. ft. vessel. Cheaper than Deltin Royale! More than 500 guests can play games here at one time. It is popular with the Indian high-rollers.

Games – Flush, mini flush, 5-card poker, Texas Hold'em poker, rummy, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, slots machines.

• 3 floors, 30,000 square feet, 40 gaming tables.
• Multi-cuisine restaurants, well-stocked bar, barbeque.
• 10,000 square feet Weather Deck for parties.
• Entertainment, Bollywood-style live acts. Live entertainment between 9 PM and 11 PM.
• Big poker tournaments.
• Room for kids full of the latest electronic games.
• Gold embellish ceilings.

Address – Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 1,500 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

King's Casino

A smaller, but more intense offshore casino on the Mandovi River! This casino can accommodate 150 guests at any time. It is on board the sleek catamaran, MV. Arabian Sea King.

Games – American Roulette, high-limit, blackjack, 3-card stud, baccarat, pontoon, slots machines, video poker.

• In a small catamaran offering a more intense casino gaming experience.
• 5 video slots, 5 mega jack slot machines
• More intimate setting than the bigger casinos.
• Can accommodate 150 guests.
• Restaurant and bar, live entertainment.
• Restrooms
• Creche

Address – On the Mandovi River in a catamaran, Panaji.

Timing – Daily, 5 PM to 10 AM

Regulations – Players only

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 5,000 INR. Rupees 4,500 worth of non-negotiable chips.

Maharajah Casino

Land Based Casino In Goa India

Maharajah Casino by Big Daddy ship is also on the Mandovi River in Panaji. It is further into the water. Many gaming and entertainment options on the ship!

Games – Roulette, baccarat, blackjack, katti or andar bahar, rashi wheel, 3-card and 5-card poker, mini flash, mang patta, rummy, Indian flash, Texas Hold'em poker.

• 4 decks, 20,000 square meter
• New luxurious interior
• Restaurants, bars, buffet
• Live dance performances, live orchestra, DJ nights, poker nights

Address – Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – Regular and Premium packages. The cost varies between 2,000 INR and 3,500 INR for weekdays, and 1,500 and 4,500 for Friday-Sunday. VIP packages cost 6,000 INR for all days of the week.

Dunes Casino

This is a luxury land-based casino in South Goa, close to the Varca beach. It is located inside the Zuri White Sands Resort. A relatively smaller casino, but there are many games on display! There are many entertainment and food options.

Games – Blackjack, baccarat, roulette, rummy, mini flash, 2-card poker.

• 4 table games, 20 gaming machines.
• 4,000 square feet gaming area.
• 6 restaurants, gymnasiums, salon, spa
• Swimming pool, activity center

Address – The Zuri White Sands Resort & Casino, Pedda, Varca.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 700 INR entry fee. No inclusions.

Casino Pearl

Casino Pearl is located within the Bogmallo Beach resort, very close to the Goa International Airport at Dabolim. The resort is located on the Bogmallo beach. This is the largest casino in South Goa.

55555 poker chips. Games – Roulette, baccarat, blackjack, tai-sai, slots machines.

• 1 table game, 26 gaming machines.
• 4,000 square feet gaming area.
• Robotic Arm Baccarat station is appreciated by the players.
• Restaurants, bars, salon, spa, fitness center
• Deluxe, superior rooms

Address – Bogmallo Beach Resort, Vasco da Gama.

Craps 6 8 betting strategy strategies. Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 500 INR entry fee. Unlimited food, drinks, and snacks while playing.

Chances Casino

Chances Casino is located at the Vainguinim Valley Resort Hotel, which is 200 meters from the Vainguinim beach in South Goa. This is the oldest onshore casino in Goa. Popular with the locals and regular players! It still uses the traditional coin slot machines.

Games – American Roulette, mini baccarat, blackjack, digital blackjack, slots machines, Royal Ascot Horse Racing.

• Largest gaming floor in Goa — 30,000 sq ft.
• VIP gaming rooms
• Restaurants, bars.
• Live music every Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
• Kids garden
• Spa, pool

Address – 184/189, Machado's Cove, Dona Paula.

Timing – 11 AM to 4 AM

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 750 INR entry fee. Unlimited drinks and snacks included.

Casino Strike

This Casino is located within the lavish Grand Hyatt Hotel at Bambolim in South Goa. Launched in 2016, this is the biggest casino in India. Plenty of gaming options!

Games – Roulette, baccarat, money wheel, Indian flush, blackjack, slots machines, casino war, andar bahar.

• 3 floors of gaming space floor for high rollers, VIP floor.
• Latest slots machines and other games not available anywhere else in India.
• Live performances, Russian dancers, DJ shows every night.
• 3 pools, spa, steam room, hot tubs, gymnasium.
• Crèche for infants, playstation for teenagers.

Address – Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bambolim.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 1,500 INR Monday to Thursday. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday. Unlimited drinks while gaming and buffet dinner included. One-time gaming chips.

Casino Palms

Casino Palms is located within the La Calypso Hotel, which is close to the Baga beach in North Goa. This is one of the most relaxed gaming houses in Goa.

Games – Roulette, machine poker, baccarat, mini flush, blackjack, slots machines.

• Largest and most spacious casino (onshore) in North Goa.
• Many exciting games to choose from.
• Restaurants, bars, ayurvedic massage.
• Spa, swimming pool.

Address – No. 7/129-B, Saunta Vadoo, Calangute-Baga Road, Bardez, Baga.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 1,000 INR for all days of the week. Unlimited food and drinks.

Here are some other good land-based casinos in Goa –

• The Leela Palace – At The Leela Palace in Cavelossim, South Goa
• Hacienda De Oro – At the Holiday Inn Hotel in Cavelossim, South Goa
• Goldfinger – At the Cidade de Goa Hotel in Calangute, North Goa
• Treasure – At the Majorda Beach Resort Hotel in Majorda, South Goa
• Mint Club – At the Rivera De Goa Resort Hotel in Calangute, North Goa

Gambling enthusiasts generally have a tough time in India. Out of the 29 states in the country, only two allow casinos – Goa, and Sikkim. A union territory, Daman (formerly a part of Goa), also has casinos. Goa online casino is very popular in the country and throughout the world.

And even here, they are allowed only under a stringent set of terms and regulations. As per the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976, casinos can only be set up in five-star hotels or offshore vessels with the prior permission of the Government.
I think we all know how one is expected to procure this 'prior permission' from the Government, but that is a topic better left for another article.

Thanks to the aforementioned rule, the number of legitimate casinos in India is so few in number, we might as well enlist them here. The State of Sikkim has three casinos – Casino Sikkim, Casino Mahjong, and Deltin Denzong. Goa boasts sixteen casinos – ten of them are based on land and the other six floating on the Mandovi River.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, there were big plans to bring Macau-like mega gambling resorts to Goa, mainly near the Mopa Airport currently under construction in northern Goa.

Online Betting from Goa

1. Betway

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   Payout 24 hrs
2. #2

   22Bet

   Min Deposit ₹250

   Payout 24 hrs
3. #3

   bet365

   Min Deposit ₹350

   Payout 24 hrs
4. #4

   ComeOn!

   Min Deposit ₹800

   Payout 24 hrs
5. #5

   10Cric

   Min Deposit ₹1,000

   Payout 24 hrs

Goa – Pearl of the Orient

There is no doubt that Goa is the biggest gambling hotspot in the country. As the host of 16 legal casinos both on land and on water, it is, quite unsurprisingly, the source of the vast majority of the land-based gambling activity in the country.
Compared to bordering states like Karnataka and Maharashtra, Goa is a tiny state with a small population of approximately just 1.8 million people. In contrast, Karnataka is estimated to have a population of approximately 62 million and Maharashtra 114 million.

Despite this fact, Goa still leads the charts in terms of gambling activity, followed by Sikkim, another small state in Northeast India. Together, they make up for almost 90% of all the legal gambling that takes place in the country.

As a coastal state, Goa is especially successful in the casino business because it can allow both land-based casinos and offshore vessel casinos. These vessels are like the Riverboat Casinos famous in the US Southern states. The boat casinos have a significant advantage over land-based casinos – they are allowed to host board games which are illegal at land casinos.

With its sun-kissed beaches and green hills, this enchanting state has always attracted tourists. In the 1980s and 90s, there was a decline in visitors to the state, as other destinations with casinos, like Nepal, started becoming more popular. The State Government led by Raj Naik decided to bring casino gambling to attract more visitors to Goa. To this end, the government made small amendments to the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act of 1976:

26[13A].Authorised Game.- (1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, the Government may authorised any game of electronic amusement/slot machines in Five Star Hotels 27 and such table games and gaming on board in vessels offshore as may be notified} subject to such conditions, including payment of such recurring and non-recurring fees, as may be prescribed.

These four lines that the Goa legislative council slipped into section 13 of the Public Gambling Act of Goa back in 1992 is what makes gambling and casinos legal on Goan soil and Goan waters.

It is also responsible for attracting millions of Indian and foreign tourists to Goa throughout the year. Another amendment, which deals with off-shore casinos and essentially allows these off-shore casinos to operate in Goa was drafted and introduced in 1996 by the State Government and the Chief Minister at the time – Pratapsing Rane.

In 2012, the latest Goan state legislation regarding gambling was officially adopted. The amendment to the bill was passed by the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Digambar Kamat. The newly added sub-clause served to legalize the transfer of licenses of off-shore casinos with paying an amount that could go up to a staggering 6.5 crore per license transfer.
This amount has been capped at 6.5 crores but starts at a meagre 2 lakhs. It has proved itself as a great method of revenue generation. It has been proposed that the money raised by such measures will go into setting up gambling de-addiction and rehabilitation centres all across Goa which will help people that are suffering from addiction to overcome their vices.

As mentioned earlier, Goa is not very populous and it is also the smallest state in the country. It is financially inclined to rely on its thriving tourism industry. And the vast majority of local Goan residents do not use the casinos – it is mainly foreign and domestic tourists who visit these places.

As a result, gambling and casinos directly affect tourism in this region. It is critical that such activities aren't outlawed, if anything, they need to be encouraged and the procedure that dictates the opening and operating of such casinos need to be relaxed and made easier.

Politicians recognized these facts and Goa became the first state in the country to legalize gambling and give out licenses to casinos. The minimum legal age to gamble was and still is set at 18. Like with most legislative subjects, there were two sides to the gambling coin, it had to face considerable opposition from some locals.

Over the decades, the casino gambling business has assumed great importance in Goa, particularly in politics. Many political parties and leaders have used opposition to casinos to win elections, only to allow the casinos to continue operating once they come to power.

The late Manohar Parrikar, former Chief Minister and Central Defence Minister had taken a stance against land-based casino resorts and boat casinos on several occasions over the years. But his BJP government did not bother to shut down these casinos despite having a popular mandate.

The situation with the off-shore boat casinos outside Panaji on the river Mandovi in these last few years is a case in point. The local civic body has been threatening these casinos with closure or revoked licenses unless they relocate to other spots away from Panaji.

But due to local opposition, the casinos and government have been unable to find suitable new locations. Still, the casinos continue to function, as the state government chose to give them extensions every six months. This has been happening for several years now.

Online Gambling in Goa

For the most part, online gambling in India is not exactly illegal, but at the same time, it cannot be considered fully legal either. It falls under the obscure grey area and the complexity is only increased by the fact that each state in the country has the sole discretion to rule on the matter. Nonetheless here are all the legal websites were Indians can play online slots.

The State of Sikkim had used this discretion to issue licenses to organizations that propose to setup such online casinos and gambling websites. But intervention from the central government stopped these initiatives. Only Sikkim residents can access online gambling sites licensed by the state. It cannot allow them to serve other Indian states.

This includes the people of Goa. The state does not have a clear law on online gambling, despite being a hotspot for offline casinos. There is a logical reason for this – the casino resorts and boats serve domestic and foreign tourists, not local Goans.

The local residents prefer other forms of gambling, like lotteries, matka, and in recent years, online casinos as well. Though it is not strictly legal, online casinos in India are discreet and easy to access, without any risk of social stigma usually associated with land casinos.

As a result, millions of people across the country still post bets online. Goa is no exception. All this is possible because popular online gambling websites such as Betway and Royal Panda all are based outside India, in countries where online gambling is legal.

These websites are perfectly legal in the countries where they are based, and they accept bets from customers all over the globe, it is clear that they especially cater to Indian customers as they provide the option of representing the monetary value in INR (Indian Rupees).

The Goa State Government, their counterparts in other states, and the Central Government have all attempted to adopt measures to prohibit Indians from making bets on these international websites.

They introduced the Payment and Settlement Act in 2007 in which they essentially gifted themselves (The Reserve Bank of India) the unreserved rights to inspect, question and deny any online transactions through bank accounts, credit/debit cards, and even modern payment options like e-wallets (Neteller, Skrill or Entropay.)

Despite the introduction of this law, it proved nearly impossible for the Government to monitor millions of on-line international transactions every single day.

Nowadays, if you use a normal credit or debit card to make a transaction to or from an online casino website, the transaction will immediately be declined by your bank. This problem can easily be overcome by using an E-wallet or a digital wallet. There are plenty of options such as PayPal, Google Wallet, Neteller, Entropay, Skrill and tons more.

After miserably failing to regulate online transactions, the Government turned to Internet Service Providers to get the situation under control, using the Information Technology Act, 2000. Using the provisions of this act, the government can instruct Internet Service Providers to restrict and block access to certain websites.

This list includes off-shore websites that could be used for online gambling. But the enforcement of these rules is not very efficient. Almost any internet connection in the country and any internet browser can be used to access most online gambling websites such as Betway and Royal Panda.

Worry not!

Even if and when they do impose these restrictions, the internet is a free place and should remain that way. Indians will still be able to access any website they want by simply using anonymity networks which allows for anonymous and unrestricted browsing of the internet. The Tor (The Onion Router) browser is one such tool that allows a user to access any website from any location. It can be downloaded free of cost.

Goa Casino Fee Hiked In 2018

The chief minister recently increased the onshore casino license fee for the second year in succession by around $80,000 and by $160,000 for offshore casinos. An application fee of around $32,000 has been introduced, from which the Goa government hopes to earn around $250,000 in additional revenue of $2,398,500. The fee hikes were 4.5 times the older rate for land casinos and 3.5 times the rate for boat casinos.

2020 Update: Locals Barred From Goa Casinos

As already mentioned, only a small fraction of Goans use the casinos in the state for their gambling needs. This has allowed Goan politicians to use an anti-casino stance to win votes. In 2012, the late Manohar Parrikar had promised to prevent casinos from serving Goan customers, ostensibly to reduce the negative impact of casino gambling on the local society.

In 2019, Parrikar's successor, Pramod Sawant, the current state Chief Minister, used the same pledge during elections. The government declared a ban on locals entering Goa casinos starting from February 2020 as part of that promise.

This decision is expected to have little impact on the casino business in Goa, as a paltry 1% of the population use the casinos for gambling. The main source of revenue is Indian and foreign tourists, which remain intact.

Goa As The Next Macau?

Over the last few years, there have been several credible rumours that the government is planning to revolutionize the gambling industry in the state. The Chinese gambling destination of Macau is reportedly the blueprint for these plans.

Macau started heavily liberalizing its casino industry in the early 2000s, resulting in huge investment by US and other foreign casino brands. Now, it is a major tourist and gambling destination rivalling Las Vegas.

There are several curious similarities between Goa and Macau – both were Portuguese colonies where gambling was legal for a long time. Now it seems that the Government plans to invite companies that could not invest in Macau to get a chance in the Goa casino resort industry. The local Goa people take casino pride in them and want to further expand their place as the world's next big casino hotspot.

The new airport coming up at Mopa is widely seen as possibly linked with this mega-casino project. Unverified reports indicate that the project could lead to the creation of a $1 billion land-based casino market.

It could also potentially solve the perennial issues associated with boat casinos. Due to lack of suitable sites, boat casinos are being kept alive by frequent license extensions. With this new project, these casinos could be converted to land-based casinos.

But given the uncertainty surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, the future of this project is not clear. We will have to wait until the crisis passes to get clear signs.

Sports Gambling in Goa

Sports gambling in India is a grey area. Horse racing is legal and protected by Supreme Court decisions that make it clear that it is a game of skill, and not pure luck/chance. The country has many race clubs dating back hundreds of years, but none of them is located in Goa.

While all other forms of sports betting are illegal in Goa, like the rest of India, punters can easily place bets at illegal bookies. Cricket and football are very popular sports in Goa, the home of many talented national football players over the years.

Online sports betting has continued its rise in popularity in the state, along with the rise of online casinos. The legal situation is the same – the Government often issues bans against the sites serving Indian players. But there are many high-quality online sportsbooks that are safe and easily available to Goan punters.

Casino Palms in Goa

Casino Palms are compact casino offering roulette, baccarat, digital poker & slot machines, plus food & drink. There are a lot of casino palms in Goa and you can have a great time out with your family and friends.

It is one hell of an experience and you must check out the best casino palms in Goa before visiting one.

Casino Paradise in Goa

Casino Paradise is one of Goa's biggest and most glamorous onshore casinos and is a favorite destination for nightlife lovers. Situated in the Neo Majestic Hotel, the site covers an area of 5,000 square feet with elegant interiors and all the gaming amenities made available under one roof.

You can enjoy digital roulette stations, roulette tables, blackjack, baccarat, mini flush, electronic slot machines, and the Robotic Arm Baccarat station. You get alcoholic drinks and live music. Overall it is a dream place for gamers and people who love to do satta.

The entry fees to the Casino start from 2,000 rupees per person Monday to Thursday, and 3,000 rupees Friday to Sunday. Unlimited food, alcoholic drinks, entertainment, and an allotment of playing chips included.

Entry Fee in Goa Casinos

The entry fee to the GoaCasino starts from INR 2,000 per individual from Monday to Thursday and starts from INR 3000 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This includes unlimited food, alcoholic drinks, and an allocation of certain playing chips alongside which is included in the whole package.

Top Casinos in Goa

With gambling still being discussed by law-makers Goa remains one of India's top destinations for gambling and betting. It has been for years with highly acclaimed casinos that Mumbai ´s and India's high class likes to frequent during holidays.