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Sri Lanka´s Most Memorable Golf Courses

Discover the island's most spectacular golf courses, from colonial-era clubs in Colombo to mountain courses with breathtaking views.

January 15, 2024

By Angela

A Golfer's Paradise in the Indian Ocean

Sri Lanka has quietly emerged as one of Asia's premier golf destinations. With a combination of historic colonial-era clubs, mountain courses shrouded in mist, and newly developed championship layouts, the island offers an extraordinary variety of golfing experiences. Whether you're a scratch golfer or a weekend enthusiast, Sri Lanka's courses will challenge and delight you in equal measure.

1. Royal Colombo Golf Club

Established in 1879, the Royal Colombo Golf Club is Asia's oldest golf club and a true gem of colonial heritage. Located in the heart of Sri Lanka's capital, this 18-hole championship course weaves through beautifully maintained fairways flanked by towering tropical trees. The club's iconic clubhouse, with its colonial-era architecture and warm hospitality, offers a glimpse into the island's storied past. Membership here is coveted, but visitors are warmly welcomed for rounds with prior arrangement.

2. Victoria Golf & Country Resort

Nestled in the hills of Kandy district, Victoria Golf & Country Resort is widely regarded as Sri Lanka's finest golf destination. The course stretches along the shores of Victoria Reservoir, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Designed to international standards, the 18-hole layout presents a series of thrilling challenges including water hazards, undulating greens, and elevation changes. The resort also features luxurious accommodation, making it ideal for a multi-day golf retreat.

3. Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

Set at an altitude of 1,900 metres in Sri Lanka's tea country, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club is a truly unique experience. The cool mountain air, misty mornings, and manicured fairways flanked by pine trees give this course a distinctly Scottish Highland atmosphere. Founded in 1889, it is one of the world's highest golf clubs. Playing here is as much about the experience as the game itself — the scenery is simply unforgettable.

4. Eagles Golf Links, China Bay, Trincomalee

Nestled on Sri Lanka's scenic east coast near Trincomalee Harbour, Eagles' Golf Links offers a beautiful and challenging 18-hole, par-72 course. Stretching almost seven kilometres, the layout winds through gently undulating Bermuda fairways and well-kept Tifdwarf greens, surrounded by mature tropical trees. Stunning views of nearby bays and the sparkling ocean accompany golfers throughout the round, creating a memorable golfing experience in a truly unique setting. Thanks to the warm tropical climate, the course can be played almost year-round, with occasional afternoon showers during the North-East monsoon from November to February.

5. Shangri La Golf & Country Club, Hambantota

Located along Sri Lanka's southern coastline, the Shangri-La Golf & Country Club was the country's first fully integrated golf resort. Surrounded by a lush coconut plantation and the vast Indian Ocean, it provides an idyllic setting for a relaxed and memorable golf escape. Designed by Robert Wright, the course blends seamlessly into the natural landscape, reflecting his philosophy of working in harmony with the local environment. Water features appear throughout the layout, adding both strategic challenge and creating a natural habitat for a variety of local wildlife.

Planning Your Sri Lanka Golf Trip

The ideal time to visit is between November and April when the west and south coasts enjoy dry weather. I recommend dedicating at least 10 days to fully experience three or four courses while also exploring the cultural and natural attractions between rounds. Private transfers between courses can be arranged, and boutique hotels near each venue add to the overall experience.

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