Online poker is prohibited in Nepal under Section 125(1) of the Muluki Criminal (Penal) Code, 2074. All forms of online gambling and betting are illegal, including betting apps, cryptocurrency-based gambling, and foreign digital wallets (1). The Nepal Telecommunications Authority and Nepal Rastra Bank have actively issued directives to block or restrict access to online gambling sites and platforms.
Land-based poker is legal only in licensed casinos that exclusively serve foreign tourists. Casinos operate under strict regulations from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, and Nepali citizens are prohibited from entering these establishments (2). Popular casino games include table games such as poker, blackjack, baccarat, and roulette, with casinos typically located in luxury hotels like Casino Royale at Hotel Yak & Yeti.
"In Nepal, all forms of online gambling and betting are prohibited under Section 125(1) of the Muluki Criminal (Penal) Code, 2074. The Nepal Telecommunications Authority and Nepal Rastra Bank have also actively issued directives to block or restrict access to such sites and wallets."
Penalties for gambling violations in Nepal include imprisonment up to three months or fines up to NPR 30,000 for first offenses, with increased penalties for repeated violations. The Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation serves as the primary regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing casino activities (2). Second offenses carry imprisonment up to one year and fines up to NPR 50,000, with confiscation of property and earnings from gambling.
Source:
https://onespherelaw.com/gambling-and-betting-law-nepal-punishment/
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulations-in-nepal/
Last updated: 09-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
