How to find Telegram groups and channels
Updated: Oct 13, 2026
Telegram has millions of public groups and channels, but discovering them inside the app isn't easy. Here are the fastest ways.
1. Telegram's own search
Type a word in the search box above your chat list ("chat", "crypto", "news"). The "Global search" section shows public groups and channels whose name or username matches. The catch: it only matches names and doesn't rank by size or quality.
2. t.me links
Every public group and channel has a link like t.me/username. When you see one on a website, on social media or in another channel, just tap it and Telegram opens it directly.
3. Directories with categories
Directories like Telegram Kiosk sort groups and channels into categories, check member counts against Telegram every day and remove dead links. For example chat groups or news channels.
4. Similar channel suggestions
After you join a channel, Telegram often suggests "similar channels". It's an easy way to branch out from a channel you already like.
Check before you join
- Members and online count: shown on the group page. A group with thousands of members and nobody online is usually dead.
- Blue check: official channels carry Telegram's verification mark. Be careful with channels using a famous brand's name without it.
- Never share your login code: no group admin or bot will ever need the login code Telegram sends you or your two-step verification password.
