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Top 5 Golf Courses in Sri Lanka Every Golfer Should Play

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. Uva Halpewatte Golf Club

A hidden gem in the Badulla district, Uva Halpewatte Golf Club is surrounded by rolling tea plantations and rubber estates. The course is less frequented by international visitors, making it a peaceful and unhurried golfing escape. The friendly local membership, spectacular rural scenery, and affordable green fees make it a must-visit for golfers who appreciate off-the-beaten-path experiences.

5. Galle Golf Club

Overlooking the historic Galle Fort — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — Galle Golf Club combines sport with culture in the most spectacular way. The course runs along the coastline of southern Sri Lanka, offering sea breezes and ocean views throughout your round. After golf, explore the Dutch-colonial streets of the fort, sample seafood at waterfront restaurants, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this coastal gem.

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.

Ready to Plan Your Sri Lanka Adventure?

Let Angela craft a personalised itinerary tailored to your interests and travel style.

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