About Tambola
Tambola, also called Housie, is a favorite at Indian family gatherings, kitty parties and festivals. This version lets the whole family play from their own phones.
Tickets follow the standard format: 3 rows, 9 columns, 15 numbers, with each column covering its own range of ten.
Tambola at a glance
| Genre | Multiplayer game |
|---|---|
| Price | Free, no download or sign-up |
| Controls | Tap, online or on one device |
| Typical game length | 10 to 15 minutes |
| Lives | None |
| Works on | Phones, tablets and computers, in any modern browser |
| Daily challenge | Yes, the same puzzle for everyone each day |
How to play Tambola
- Choose a mode. Choose how to play: Online with friends (share a room link), Pass & play on one device, or vs Computer.
- Call a number. Players take turns tapping the call button.
- Numbers are marked for you. On every ticket automatically.
- Win prizes. Early Five, Top Line, Middle Line, Bottom Line and Full House.
Rules
- Prize points: Early Five 1, each line 2, Full House 4.
- The game ends when someone claims the Full House.
- Online rooms hold 2 to 4 players, and moves appear instantly on every screen.
Levels and difficulty
2 to 4 players, one ticket each.
Scoring
Winning scores 1,000 points, a draw 300 and taking part 100. Share your result with the people you played. Daily challenge scores can be shared with friends.
Tips and strategy for Tambola
- Tambola is pure luck: just enjoy the calls!
History of the game
Tambola is India's name for the lottery-style number game known as Housie in Britain and Bingo in America.
How we built and tested Tambola
We tested every rule by having computer players play complete games against each other at every player count, confirming every game ends properly and no illegal move is accepted. Online play was tested with several simulated phones sharing one room.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to mark numbers myself?
No, your ticket is marked automatically.
Can I play with friends online?
Yes. Create a room, share the link on WhatsApp, and friends join from their own phones with no account needed.