It is true that Chiang Mai is cooler than the other tourist centres in Thailand, but only just. The higher altitude and the surrounding landscape in the form of mountains and forests do help with the climate and the difference, which even if small, is good enough to drive tourists there. Other factors like low congestion, low costs of food and beverage, a reasonably thriving bar and nightlife, being easy to get around, interesting historical and cultural sights and just an overall relaxed vibe, are probably even better reasons than the incrementally better weather to visit Chiang Mai. For golfers, there is no scarcity of options either, with over a dozen golf courses in Chiang Mai that meander through the lush mountains bordering the city.
To help choose where to play, here’s the list of the top golf courses in and around Chiang Mai.
Alpine Golf Resort:
Considered by many as the Best, and one of the “Must Plays” during a Golf Holiday in Chiang Mai. Can play long and offers adequate challenge to golfers of all abilities. This was originally an 18- hole course but with 9 new holes added in 2016, there is a bit of an additional flavor for those looking to get back and play here.
Chiang Mai Highlands Golf Resort & Spa:
Another 27-hole beauty, that offers some incredible views from the tees, fairways and greens. With plenty of challenge thrown in, both by way of shot-making and putting, Chiang Mai Highlands, just like Alpine Golf Club is a must in a golf trip to Chiang Mai.
North Hill Chiang Mai Golf:
Opened as recently as in 2014, this golf course is almost always in great condition and therefore finds favor amongst those to whom this attribute matters. The clubhouse features a very nice restaurant and grabbing a meal here during your visit is a must.
Mae Jo Golf Club & Resort:
One of the friendlier golf courses in Chiang Mai, set amidst some lush and magnificent vegetation that features mature trees, the layout is such that it suits golfers of all abilities. The Lanna style clubhouse is well set up to relax with a refreshment after your round
Chiangmai Inthanon Golf Resort:
This relatively wide and friendly golf course is set up so that most of its holes have Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand as a backdrop. The clubhouse is basic but good enough to enjoy a cold one with the views on offer.
There is stay and play possibility at Alpine, Chiang Mai Highlands and Mae Jo, so if you are looking for a resort golfing holiday in Chiang Mai, you have enough options available.
Clearly, Chiang Mai sets up very well for a golf holiday for all aforementioned reasons. If you are looking to play more golf along with more variety, the other golf courses in Chiang Mai, that you could consider are Gassan Khuntan Golf & Resort, Gassan Legacy Golf Club, Gassan Panorama Golf Club, Gold Canyon Golf Course, Hariphunchai Golf Club, Lanna Golf Club, Royal Chiang Mai Golf Club & Resort and Summit Green Valley Chiang Mai Country Club.
