Kashmir is one of the most attractive destinations for golfing. The natural green surroundings with breathtaking views make golfing in Kashmir a memorable experience. April to October is considered the peak season for golfing in Kashmir as the golf courses as generally covered in snow in the winter season.
Today let us take a look at top golf venues in Kashmir.
1. Gulmarg Golf Club
Gulmarg Golf Club was built in 1980. It was initially built as a vacation spot but was later converted into a golf course. It lies at an elevation of 2650 meters above sea level making it the second highest green golf course in the world. It is functional from April to November and becomes a spot for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
Gulmarg Golf Club consists of 18 holes and par 72 with a length of 6863 meters. It was redesigned by Ranjit Nanda and is the longest golf course in India. It is currently operated by JKTDC and the membership fee is Rs. 800 for member guests and foreigners on weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
2. Royal Spring Golf Course
Royal Spring Golf Course is located in the Chashme Shahi area of Srinagar city. The course has a breathtaking view of the Zabarwan mountains on one side and Dal Lake on the other side and was ranked as the best golf course in India by Golf Digest. The venue hosted the first-ever women’s golf tournament in Srinagar in 2012 and continues to host most of the golf tournaments held in Kashmir.
The course has a length of 6,387 meters consisting of 18 holes and 72 par. Royal Spring Golf Course is managed by JKTDC and the price for member guests is set at Rs. 1500 on weekdays and weekends.
3. Kashmir Golf Club
Located on the MA Road area of Srinagar city, Kashmir Golf Club is the oldest golf course in the valley. It was built by the British in 1887. The course is entirely covered by Chinar and Poplar trees making it a must-have experience for golf lovers. It is one of the best summer golfing destinations in Kashmir and its location in the heart of the city center makes it one of the best golf courses in the valley.
Kashmir Golf Club is spread over 52 acres and consists of 18 holes and 70 par. The golf course remains open from March to November and the temperate weather of the area allows golfers to play for a long time without feeling the effects of heat.
4. Pahalgam Golf Course
Pahalgam Golf Course is known for its stunning natural beauty and is present in the backdrop of the snow-covered mountains of the Himalayas. The course offers a unique golfing experience due to its scenic location and challenging layout.
Pahalgam Golf Course is located at an altitude of 2400 meters above sea level. Initially established as a 9-hole course, it was renovated in 2009 and upgraded to an 18-hole and par 71 course. It is managed by the Pahalgam Development Authority and the fee for Indian citizens is set at Rs. 1200, and for foreigners, it is Rs. 2400.
Read More: Top Sports Stadiums in Kashmir
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
