Known for its pristine beaches, rich culture, amazing food, great weather, low cost of living, and friendly people, Thailand is one of the most popular and beautiful countries in Asia. The popularity of poker in the country is growing with each passing day with a lot of expats and foreigners indulging in the sport of poker. However, the question that often people ask is whether poker is allowed in Thailand. The answer is not a straight ‘No’ or Yes’. It should be clear that any form of gambling other than the horse racing and lottery is illegal under the country’s Gambling Act of 1935.
>> Despite the laws in place, 70% of people regularly indulge in gambling in Thailand
>> People found gambling are often just fined or warned. Penalties range from $15 to $150
>> Live poker enthusiasts often go to underground casinos to participate in poker games
>> Hotspots for the home games of poker include Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket, and Pattaya
While gambling is illegal in the country, poker remains a grey area with no specific law governing playing the game in live set ups. The game is highly popular and there is a strong player base both live and online. Poker rooms in the country offer a variety of games, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud. While there are many live poker rooms operating throughout the country, we bring you a list of some popular ones that poker enthusiasts can visit and participate in their favourite game.
Bophut Poker Club
Bophut Poker Club offers both tournaments and cash games across Hold’em and PLO variants. Visitors are sure to have a gala time with a wide array food and drinks, complimentary Wifi, and live sports broadcasts. The club upholds a no-smoking policy at tables but has a smoking area. They offer tournaments with rebuy and add-on options. Rebuys start at THB 2K and the starting stack is 5K. The rebuy-time lasts for 90 minutes. Additionally, add-ons of 7.5K chips are available. Cash games for Hold’em are offered at 10/25, 25/50, 50/100, and 100/200 stakes, while for Omaha, the stakes stand at 50/50, 50/100, and 100/200. Contact at + 669-4805-7801 / +668-0520-6373 for queries or details.
Poker Bird
This is Bangkok’s professional poker clubs network having three different venues in prime locations. Known for its hospitality, cuisine and fair play among players, it is favourite among players. The poker room offers daily cash games of No Limit Hold’em (NLH) and Pot Limit Omaha 5 (PLO) starting at 9 PM local time. They also serve complementary food & beverages. Use their code POKDISTH to avail a free night at the hotel and pick and drop service. Contact via Telegram id: @zinger1178 for reservations.
Gutshot Poker Room
This is also a popular poker room where players and visitors can dive into intense cash games across
No Limit Hold’em (NLH) and Pot Limit Omaha (PLO). Running since a long time, it is a good option especially for budget players with stakes at 50/100 and 100/200. For details, visit their Facebook page.
Red King Poker Club
Red King Poker Club is a luxurious venue offering the best of live poker. Players can choose from a variety of exciting Texas Hold’em or Omaha cash games and tournaments. It will be a paradise for the fans of complimentary food and drinks as the club offers delectable cuisines and alcohol for free.
White House Poker Club Bangkok
White House Poker Club Bangkok provides excellent safety measures and a welcoming atmosphere. There are plenty of games to play for both locals and tourists. Players can choose from from a wide range of poker games like NLH at 2/4 USD, PLO at 2/4 USD, and higher stakes at PLO 30/60/90 USD.
Sunny Casino Bangkok
Sunny Casino Bangkok is a popular underground casino in Bangkok where you can play underground poker games. Poker players can enjoy NLH and PLO games at 3/6 USD stakes. A unique perk is that this casino offers games for both you and your companions, making it an enticing option for gaming.
Disclaimer:
The information in this article is for general informational purposes and is based on a variety of online sources. It is advised to verify the current legality of poker establishments as laws can change. The article does not endorse participation in any form of illegal gambling activities that may be prohibited by the law. The author or publisher does not take responsibility for actions based on this information.
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