How to Play Teen Patti: Rules & Hand Rankings

By YonoPlay Hub Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-06-12

Teen Patti (literally 'three cards', also called Flash or Indian Poker) is a simple but tense betting game played with a standard 52-card deck and no jokers. Each player gets three cards face down, and the aim is to have the best three-card hand at showdown — or to bet confidently enough that everyone else folds.

The goal

Win the pot, either by holding the strongest three-card hand when cards are revealed, or by being the last player left after the others fold. Everyone first puts in a fixed stake called the boot (ante) to create the starting pot.

Hand rankings (highest to lowest)

1. Trail / Trio (three of a kind): three cards of the same rank, e.g. A-A-A. Three aces is the best hand.
2. Pure Sequence (straight flush): three consecutive cards of the same suit, e.g. 5-6-7 of hearts.
3. Sequence (run/straight): three consecutive cards of mixed suits, e.g. 5-6-7 of different suits.
4. Colour (flush): three cards of the same suit, not in sequence.
5. Pair: two cards of the same rank, e.g. K-K-9.
6. High Card: none of the above — the highest single card decides.

Blind vs seen play

This is what makes Teen Patti distinct. A 'blind' player bets without looking at their cards and stakes lower amounts. A 'seen' player has looked and must bet roughly double a blind player's stake. Playing blind keeps your bets cheap and hides information, but you are gambling in the dark.

A turn, step by step

1. Everyone posts the boot; cards are dealt three each, face down.
2. Action moves clockwise. On your turn you choose to play blind or seen, then bet (call) or raise.
3. Fold any time you think your hand is weak — you only lose what you have staked so far.
4. When two players remain, one can call a 'show' to compare hands; the higher hand wins the pot.
5. A seen player can request a 'sideshow' with the previous player to privately compare and force the weaker to fold.

Beginner tips

• Start blind for a few rounds — it is cheaper and disguises your hand.
• Fold weak high-card hands early instead of chasing the pot.
• Watch how opponents bet; sudden big raises from seen players usually mean strength.
• Set a fixed budget per session and stop when you hit it — Teen Patti swings fast.
• Practise on free tables before risking real cash.