Best Exchange Betting Sites in India (2025)
Introduction
Online betting in India has undergone significant changes following recent legislation that restricts real-money online betting. Betting exchanges, which once allowed players to bet against each other rather than against a traditional bookmaker, have largely become illegal under the current legal framework. Major platforms, such as Flutter’s Junglee, have ceased operations in India due to these regulatory changes.
Given the legal restrictions, it’s essential for Indian users to focus on legal alternatives rather than traditional betting exchanges. One of the most popular legal options is fantasy sports platforms, such as Dream11, which now operate on advertising-based revenue models and comply with Indian law. These platforms allow users to engage with their favorite sports, including cricket and football, in a legally compliant way without placing real-money bets against other players.
Key points to consider for legal engagement in sports gaming include:
- Fantasy Sports Platforms: Focus on platforms like Dream11 that comply with the law and offer skill-based gaming rather than chance-based betting.
- Legal Revenue Models: Many legal platforms now generate income through subscriptions, advertising, or in-app purchases instead of real-money betting.
- Secure Transactions: Use only verified payment gateways and avoid unofficial platforms to ensure safety and legal compliance.
- Sport Options: Engage in popular sports like cricket, football, and kabaddi through legal fantasy sports apps that allow you to build teams and track performance without violating the law.
This updated guide emphasizes staying informed about the current regulations and prioritizing legal, safe alternatives. Whether you are a sports enthusiast or looking for interactive ways to enjoy games, using legally compliant fantasy sports platforms ensures a safe and responsible gaming experience in India.
Quick Comparison: Top Betting Exchange Sites in India (2025)
To save you time, here’s a snapshot of the best exchange betting sites and apps in India right now. This table highlights what each platform is best known for, their welcome bonuses, and key features — so you can quickly find the one that matches your style of play.
| Site/App | Best For | Welcome Bonus | Key Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stake | Best Overall Exchange Betting | 200% Deposit Bonus up to ₹80,000 | High liquidity, crypto + UPI support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Dafabet Exchange | Cricket Betting Specialists | 160% Bonus up to ₹15,000 | Strong cricket markets, live betting | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Betfair (International) | Global Betting Exchange Leader | Varies by region | Biggest liquidity worldwide | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| 1xBet Exchange | Wide Sports Coverage | 100% Bonus up to ₹20,000 | UPI & Paytm accepted, diverse sports | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Betdaq | Easy-to-Use Platform | Free Bets for New Players | Beginner-friendly, simple interface | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Star Exchange | Popular Indian Exchange Game | Game-specific promotions | Local focus, easy deposits | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Note: Ratings are based on factors like security, betting options, withdrawal speed, and user experience.
Best Exchange Betting Sites in India (2025 Rankings)
When choosing an exchange betting site in India, several factors matter: competitive odds, liquidity, cricket coverage, UPI/Paytm deposits, and mobile app usability. We’ve analyzed the top platforms to bring you a concise yet detailed guide, helping you pick the best site based on your betting style.
Dream11 – Skill-Based Fantasy Sports Platform
Legal & SafePlatforms like Dream11 operate within the legal framework by offering skill-based gaming rather than chance-based betting. These platforms have shifted to advertising-based revenue models following the ban on real-money gaming, ensuring compliance with Indian laws.
- Key Features: Fantasy sports across cricket, football, kabaddi, and more
- Pros: Skill-based, safe, widely trusted in India
- Cons: Real-money contests restricted in some regions
Stake – Best Overall Exchange Betting Site in India
Top PickStake continues to dominate the Indian exchange betting market with high liquidity, crypto-friendly options, and UPI support. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bettors interested in cricket and football.
- Welcome Bonus: 200% deposit bonus up to ₹80,000
- Key Features: Progressive Web App (PWA), instant withdrawals with UPI, live betting options
- Pros: Smooth UI, fast payments, strong promotions
- Cons: No dedicated iOS/Android app yet
Dafabet Exchange – Best for Cricket Betting
Cricket SpecialistDafabet Exchange specializes in cricket with extensive IPL and domestic tournament coverage. Its intuitive interface and strong live betting options make it a favorite among cricket enthusiasts.
- Welcome Bonus: 160% bonus up to ₹15,000
- Key Features: In-play betting, cricket market specialization
- Pros: Rich cricket coverage, multiple payment options
- Cons: Limited non-cricket sports
Betfair (International) – Global Betting Exchange Leader
Global LeaderBetfair is the largest international betting exchange, known for unmatched liquidity and a wide array of sports. Indian players can benefit from its robust platform for football, cricket, and other international sports.
- Welcome Bonus: Varies by region
- Key Features: Biggest global liquidity, multiple sports markets
- Pros: Trusted global brand, large betting volume
- Cons: Regional restrictions may apply, slightly complex UI
1xBet Exchange – Wide Sports Coverage
Versatile Choice1xBet Exchange offers a diverse sports portfolio, making it a versatile choice for Indian bettors. UPI, Paytm, and crypto support make deposits and withdrawals fast and reliable.
- Welcome Bonus: 100% bonus up to ₹20,000
- Key Features: Mobile-friendly platform, multiple sports, competitive odds
- Pros: Wide sports coverage, responsive mobile site
- Cons: UI can feel cluttered for beginners
Star Exchange – Popular Indian Exchange Game
India-FocusedStar Exchange caters to players looking for local Indian betting games with a user-friendly exchange platform. Game-specific promotions and easy UPI deposits make it highly accessible.
- Welcome Bonus: Game-specific promotions
- Key Features: Focus on Indian sports, simple interface
- Pros: Local focus, beginner-friendly, quick deposits
- Cons: Limited international sports markets
Shivaay Bharat – Trusted Online Cricket ID Provider
Indian PlatformShivaay Bharat is a top online cricket ID provider in India, offering 100% original cricket betting IDs. It supports IPL and other sports betting games, ensuring secure and quick access to all platforms.
- Key Features: Secure betting platform, multiple sports and casino games
- Pros: Quick response, referral commission system, 26+ payment gateways
- Cons: Focused on Indian market only
How Betting Exchanges Work
Betting exchanges operate differently from traditional bookmakers, giving players more control and better odds. Understanding how they work is essential before placing your first exchange bet in India.
Exchange Betting vs Traditional Bookmaker Betting
In traditional betting, you place a bet against the bookmaker, who sets the odds and controls the market. Your potential profit and loss are fixed, and the bookmaker takes a margin.
In contrast, exchange betting lets you bet against other players, not the house. This creates a peer-to-peer marketplace where odds are often higher and more competitive.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Bookmaker | Betting Exchange |
|---|---|---|
| Opponent | Bookmaker | Other players |
| Odds | Fixed by bookmaker | Determined by market |
| Flexibility | Limited | High (backing & laying bets) |
| Profit Potential | Capped | Potentially higher |
Backing vs Laying Bets
A unique feature of betting exchanges is the ability to back or lay a bet:
Backing a Bet: You bet that a particular outcome will happen. Example: “India will win the next IPL match.”
Laying a Bet: You bet that a particular outcome will not happen. Example: “India will not win the next IPL match.”
This flexibility allows users to act as both bettors and bookmakers, giving more strategic options.
Example: Cricket Betting on an Exchange
Suppose you want to bet on the IPL final:
You back Mumbai Indians at odds of 2.0, wagering ₹1,000.
Another user lays Mumbai Indians at the same odds, effectively acting as the bookmaker.
If Mumbai wins, your profit is ₹1,000; if they lose, the layer takes the payout.
The exchange facilitates the transaction and takes a small commission on winnings, rather than setting odds themselves.
Why Exchanges Are Popular in India
- Better Odds: Peer-to-peer betting removes the bookmaker’s margin, increasing potential returns.
- Transparency: All transactions are visible, and players can freely choose their stakes.
- Flexibility: Options to back or lay bets allow advanced betting strategies, including hedging and trading.
- Mobile-Friendly: Most top exchanges provide apps or PWAs supporting UPI/Paytm deposits for instant betting.
Understanding how betting exchanges work gives Indian bettors a significant advantage. It empowers players to find the best odds, hedge risk, and maximize returns on cricket, football, tennis, and niche sports like kabaddi.
Best Exchange Betting Sites by Sport
Different sports have different betting needs, and some exchanges specialize in specific markets. Here’s a breakdown of the best betting exchange sites in India by sport, helping you find the perfect platform for your favorite games.
Cricket – IPL, World Cup & Domestic Tournaments
Cricket remains the most popular sport for exchange betting in India. Sites that excel in cricket betting offer high liquidity, deep market coverage, and fast UPI/Paytm deposits.
Top Picks:
- Dafabet Exchange: Best for IPL and domestic tournaments, intuitive interface, in-play betting, and cricket-focused markets.
- Stake: High liquidity for international cricket matches, live odds, crypto-friendly.
- Star Exchange: Ideal for IPL-specific Indian games with local betting promotions.
Football – EPL, ISL & Champions League
Football betting has surged in India, especially for European leagues and the Indian Super League (ISL). Look for exchanges with live betting and quick mobile support.
Top Picks:
- Betfair: Largest global liquidity, supports EPL, Champions League, and ISL markets.
- 1xBet Exchange: Offers wide football coverage and mobile-first interface for in-play betting.
- Stake: Competitive odds for international football tournaments.
Tennis – Grand Slams & ATP Tour
Tennis betting is perfect for live, in-play strategies due to frequent matches and set-based outcomes. Exchanges with fast updates and back/lay options provide maximum flexibility.
Top Picks:
- Betfair Mobile: Best for Grand Slam events and ATP/WTA tournaments, high liquidity.
- 1xBet: Strong international tennis coverage with mobile-friendly interface.
Kabaddi – Pro Kabaddi League & Local Tournaments
Kabaddi has grown rapidly, especially the Pro Kabaddi League. Indian-centric exchanges often provide specialized markets for these games.
Top Picks:
- Star Exchange: Focused on Indian sports, including kabaddi, with simple UPI deposits.
- Dafabet: Offers occasional kabaddi markets alongside cricket.
- Horse Racing – National & International Races
Horse Racing – National & International Races
Horse racing remains a niche yet popular betting segment in India. Exchanges with live odds and multiple staking options are preferred.
Top Picks:
- 1xBet: Covers international and domestic horse races with flexible staking options.
- Betfair: Provides professional-grade odds and liquidity for major horse racing events.
Summary:
Choosing the right exchange by sport ensures you get the best odds, liquidity, and in-play betting options. Whether you’re following IPL cricket, EPL football, Grand Slam tennis, or Pro Kabaddi, the platforms above cater to every sports betting need in India.
Betting Exchange Games in India
Betting exchange games are a growing trend in India, allowing players to bet against each other rather than a traditional bookmaker. These games combine the excitement of sports with a peer-to-peer betting model, offering more control, better odds, and local relevance.
What Are Betting Exchange Games?
Unlike conventional bets, betting exchange games allow players to back or lay outcomes with other users. The platform only takes a small commission on winnings, rather than setting odds itself. This creates a transparent, competitive environment where Indian players can maximize returns.
Popular types of betting exchange games in India include:
Cricket Betting Games
Cricket remains the most popular exchange game in India. Players can bet on IPL matches, domestic tournaments, or international series. Backing and laying bets during live matches is particularly popular among IPL enthusiasts.Football Exchange Games
Football fans can engage in peer-to-peer betting for leagues like the Indian Super League (ISL), English Premier League (EPL), and Champions League. Exchange platforms offer real-time odds updates, making in-play strategies highly effective.Tennis Exchange Games
Live tennis betting allows players to back or lay sets and match outcomes during tournaments like Grand Slams, ATP, and WTA events. These short-duration games make exchanges ideal for dynamic in-play betting.Indian-Focused Games – Best Star Exchange
Platforms like Star Exchange focus on India-specific betting games, offering simple interfaces and quick UPI/Paytm deposits. Players can participate in local betting events like IPL, Kabaddi, or game-specific competitions. Star Exchange also provides exclusive promotions, making it a popular choice among Indian bettors.Casino & Card-Based Exchange Games
Some exchanges include casino-style games, Teen Patti, Andar Bahar, or Dragon Tiger in an exchange format. Here, players can bet against each other rather than the house, combining skill and strategy.
Why Exchange Games Are Popular in India
- Better Odds: Peer-to-peer betting removes bookmaker margins.
- Transparency: All bets and stakes are visible, increasing trust.
- Local Relevance: Platforms like Star Exchange focus on Indian games and promotions.
- Mobile Convenience: UPI, Paytm, and Google Pay support for instant deposits and withdrawals.
Summary:
Betting exchange games in India are a mix of traditional sports betting and peer-to-peer strategies. Platforms like Star Exchange make it easy to participate in India-centric games while enjoying competitive odds, secure payments, and interactive gameplay. Whether you prefer cricket, football, or card-based games, exchange games offer an exciting alternative to traditional betting.
Legal & Safe Exchange Betting in India
When it comes to online betting, legality and safety are the top concerns for Indian players. Understanding the rules and choosing licensed platforms ensures a secure and worry-free betting experience.
Is Betting Legal in India?
The legal landscape of betting in India is complex:
Sports Betting: Generally, betting on sports is restricted in most states under the Public Gambling Act, 1867. However, skill-based games and certain online betting platforms hosted internationally are not explicitly banned.
Lottery & Local Betting: Lotteries are legal in some states, and local betting platforms may operate in licensed regions.
International Betting Exchanges: Platforms like Stake, Betfair, Dafabet, and 1xBet operate internationally and accept Indian players. These exchanges are legal for Indian users as they do not have physical operations in India but comply with international licensing standards.
How to Bet Safely on Exchange Platforms
Choose Licensed Operators: Only use platforms regulated by reputable authorities, such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) or UK Gambling Commission.
Secure Payment Methods: Stick to trusted deposit and withdrawal options like UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, or crypto wallets. Avoid unverified third-party wallets.
Check for Transparent Fees: Betting exchanges charge a small commission on winnings instead of building it into odds. Ensure the commission structure is clear.
Enable Responsible Gaming: Use deposit limits, self-exclusion, and other tools to avoid excessive betting.
Verify Platform Security: Look for SSL encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and regular audits to protect personal and financial data.
Why Legal & Safe Betting Matters
Protects your funds from fraud or scams
Ensures timely withdrawals
Guarantees fair odds and transparency
Avoids legal complications
Summary:
While online betting is technically restricted in India, using licensed international exchange platforms is safe and legal for Indian users. Stick to regulated operators, use secure payment methods like UPI/Paytm, and follow responsible gaming practices. Platforms like Stake, Dafabet, Betfair, and Star Exchange combine legality, safety, and excellent betting features, making them the preferred choices for Indian bettors in 2025.
Step-by-Step Guide to Start Betting on an Exchange in India
Starting on a betting exchange can seem intimidating at first, but the process is straightforward. Follow this step-by-step guide to register, deposit, and place your first exchange bet safely in India.
Step 1: Choose a Reliable Betting Exchange
Pick a licensed and trusted platform like Stake, Dafabet, Betfair, 1xBet, or Star Exchange. Consider factors like:
- Cricket or sport-specific coverage
- UPI/Paytm deposit support
- Mobile-friendly apps or PWAs
- Welcome bonuses and promotions
Step 2: Registration
- Go on Online Betting ID Provider whatsapp of our website to register your ID Online
Step 3: Verify Your Account
- Upload government-issued ID (Aadhaar, PAN, or passport) for verification.
- Complete address verification if required.
- Verification ensures secure transactions and compliance with licensing regulations.
Step 4: Deposit Funds
- Use trusted methods like UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, or cryptocurrency wallets for instant deposits.
- Minimum deposit amounts vary by platform, but most start around ₹500–₹1,000.
- Check for deposit bonuses or promotions to maximize your initial funds.
Step 5: Explore Betting Markets
- Navigate to your sport of choice: cricket, football, tennis, kabaddi, or horse racing.
- Check live odds and market depth to understand liquidity.
- Decide whether to back (bet for) or lay (bet against) a selection.
Step 6: Place Your First Exchange Bet
- Enter your stake and confirm the bet.
- Monitor live betting markets if you’re placing in-play bets.
- Remember: commissions are usually charged only on net winnings, not your stake.
Step 7: Withdraw Winnings
- Use the same secure method as deposits (UPI, Paytm, or crypto) for withdrawals.
- Most exchanges process withdrawals quickly, sometimes instantly for UPI or crypto.
- Keep track of transaction history and receipts for personal records.
Tips for Beginners:
- Start with small stakes until you understand backing and laying.
- Use demo or practice features if available.
- Follow responsible gaming practices: set limits and avoid chasing losses.
Our Expert Evaluation Process
Choosing the best betting exchange in India requires careful analysis of multiple factors. Our team of experts evaluates every platform based on key criteria to ensure Indian players get a safe, reliable, and profitable betting experience.
1. Odds & Market Liquidity
Competitive Odds: Higher odds mean better potential returns for players. We compare odds across multiple sports and markets to find the most lucrative options.
Liquidity: A high liquidity exchange ensures that large bets can be placed without impacting the market, particularly important for cricket and football matches.
2. Sports Coverage & Popularity
Platforms are evaluated on the variety of sports offered: cricket, football, tennis, kabaddi, horse racing, and niche Indian games.
We consider both domestic events (like IPL, Pro Kabaddi) and international tournaments for full coverage.
3. Payment Methods & Speed
We prioritize exchanges with UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, and crypto deposits for instant funding.
Withdrawal speed, reliability, and low transaction fees are critical factors.
4. Mobile Experience
Many Indian users prefer mobile betting, so apps and Progressive Web Apps (PWA) are tested for usability, speed, and responsiveness.
Features like in-play betting, notifications, and user-friendly interfaces are key evaluation points.
5. Security & Licensing
Licensed platforms regulated by authorities such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) or UK Gambling Commission are prioritized.
We ensure SSL encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and secure data handling for all recommended platforms.
6. Promotions & Bonuses
Welcome bonuses, deposit matches, and game-specific promotions are assessed for value, wagering requirements, and relevance to Indian users.
7. Customer Support
We test response times, availability of support channels (chat, email, phone), and effectiveness in resolving issues.
Quick and reliable customer service is essential for a smooth betting experience.
8. Responsible Gaming Measures
Platforms offering tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks score higher in our evaluation.
Responsible gaming ensures players can enjoy betting safely without financial or emotional risks.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The best exchange betting site depends on your preferences:
Stake: Best overall with high liquidity, crypto support, and UPI deposits.
Dafabet Exchange: Best for cricket enthusiasts, especially IPL and domestic tournaments.
Betfair: Ideal for professional bettors seeking global liquidity and multiple sports markets.
1xBet Exchange: Wide sports coverage and mobile-friendly.
Star Exchange: Popular for India-centric games and beginner-friendly interface.
Most top Indian-friendly exchange apps support UPI, Paytm, and Google Pay for deposits and withdrawals:
Stake App (PWA with UPI support)
Dafabet Exchange App (fast UPI deposits for cricket betting)
1xBet App (wide payment options including UPI/Paytm)
Star Exchange App (India-focused with instant UPI deposits)
Bookmaker: You bet against the house, which sets odds and controls the market.
Exchange: You bet against other players, with odds determined by the market. Exchanges allow backing or laying bets and generally offer better returns due to lower margins.
Yes. Star Exchange is a licensed platform focused on Indian games. It supports secure UPI and Paytm deposits, offers transparent odds, and ensures responsible gaming tools, making it safe for Indian bettors.
As of 2025, all forms of online betting, including sports betting and betting exchanges, are illegal in India under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. This law prohibits Indian residents from participating in money-based online games, even on international platforms like Stake, Dafabet, Betfair, or 1xBet.
Engaging in such activities can lead to legal penalties, including fines and potential criminal charges. Always ensure that any online gaming platform you use complies with Indian law. Skill-based games that do not involve betting with real money are generally permitted.
Conclusion
Betting exchanges are changing the way Indians enjoy online betting, offering better odds, transparency, and flexibility. Choose licensed platforms like Stake, Dafabet, Betfair, 1xBet, Star Exchange, and Shivaay Bharat for safe deposits, withdrawals, and responsible gaming.
Whether beginner or experienced, exchange betting lets you maximize returns and enjoy peer-to-peer markets. Register on Shivaay Bharat today and explore the best odds, games, and promotions for Indian players in 2025.
