The casino in Kathmandu, which was opened in 1968, was the first casino in Asia. The owner, Nepal Recreation Centre, operates three other casinos in the area and these are heavily patronized by residents of India. Gambling is available on horse racing, lotteries, cock fighting, basketball and jai alai. Land-based casinos are banned, although three cruise ships with gambling facilities currently operate on weekends. There were once casinos, but they have been closed.
Negotiations are currently underway for their re-opening.
The country represents one of the best potential markets for the legalization of gambling. At present there are officially no legal forms of gambling. However, there is an illegal lottery, horse racing betting shops and illegal casinos. The major patrons are expected to come from the neighboring islands of Guam and Sipan. The country has a variety of gambling such as horse racing, lotteries and cock fighting.