Thai lotto is one of the most beloved forms of legal gambling in Thailand. Administered by the government lottery office (GLO), draws are held twice each month on the 1st and 16th for over 76 billion baht in prize money distribution; approximately 19 million Thais take part.
Some individuals take it a step further when selecting their lottery numbers; many visit shrines of revered figures to find auspicious numbers that will bring good fortune. Those who believe in Pu Khaew at Pu Khaew Khamnod often select numbers 17 and 71, which correspond with Naga scales believed to belong to this deity; those who firmly believe in Buddha may select 88 which is thought to bring prosperity.
People often select their lucky numbers by counting the digits of their birth date or anniversary. People born under either Chinese zodiac sign 13th (Chinese zodiac) or Western zodiac signs 12th can anticipate winning big jackpots while Thai calendar 28th birthdays may bring extra good luck!
Huay, or Thailand’s underground lottery, has grown immensely popular over recent years. While this illicit lotto does not offer as much prize money as the official government-run lotteries do, its dealers find huay to be highly lucrative; estimates indicate it generates approximately one quarter of Thailand’s lottery profits, making it almost impossible to distinguish from official Thai lotteries.
The official government lottery can be purchased both physically and online; to do so in-country and with valid passport. This restriction serves to prevent lottery fraud as well as protect retailers who sell tickets.
Though foreigners have found success playing the Thai government lottery, it should be remembered that sales to individuals outside Thailand are limited. Tickets come pre-printed with anti-counterfeit features to prevent counterfeits; therefore they can only be sold as pairs. Before purchasing one of these tickets, be aware of this requirement: only matching six numbers on your tickets can bring you success in winning this particular draw.
Thais frequently make use of Esiimsi (lucky Dip), an ancient form of numerology involving shaking a cup filled with numbers until one falls out and determines their lucky number. Though controversial, this method has proven itself successful and continues to be employed among many Thais as they choose their lottery numbers.