Navatanee Golf Club

Northeast Bangkok along Outer Ring Road

In 1975, the selection of Navatanee by the International Golf Federation to be host venue for the 23rd World Cup of Golf was the most fitting accolade and spurred the Thailand golf revolution. The event was won by the US team, represented by Johnny Miller, at the peak of his game, and Lou Graham.

Navatanee also hosted the Thailand Open in 1999. In the same year, Navatanee was ranked the top course in Thailand by Golf Digest USA.

Such rich history, coupled with the striking beauty of the ‘Flame of the Forest’ and Rosewood trees and vivid arrays of bougainvillea that adorn the fairways, creates a perfect harmony of serenity and challenge that enchants golfers from all over the world.

Nowadays Navatanee continues to rank among the top Bangkok courses.  The golf course which is located close to downtown Bangkok has only improved with time. It also one of Bangkok’s most beautiful courses. Play is strictly for members only during weekends, but the course does allow international guests to play during weekdays.

The Navatanee golf course is always well maintained and the caddies are very knowledgeable. Fourty years after opening the Robert Trent Jones Jr. design from the black tees still make for some of the most challenging golf in Thailand.

Entering the course, excitement levels rise as you pass by the par-3 17th at right and the par-4 16th at left. Some great holes are sprinkled throughout the course including the short Par 4 5th which is one of the more difficult despite being only 329 yards, and the Par 5 9th around the water, which receives unanimous approval from all who play here.

The signature 6th hole at Navatanee is a 445 yard par-4 that demands a draw from the tee in order to reach the green in regulation. However, with water guarding both the entire left side of the fairway and another lake fronting the green in a sweeping reverse ‘S’ shape, making par on this hole is a notable achievement!

The clubhouse at Navatanee Golf Club has a superb outdoor restaurant overlooking the 9th that serves up some of the best local food around. Changing rooms however are in need of an upgrade, the two on course kiosks could be better stocked, and there is no driving range.

Navatanee is as close to a private country club experience you can have in Thailand. Play is brisk as golf carts are compulsory. Moreover, high prices make Navatanee suitable for only those looking for the best golf in Bangkok.