If Bangkok is the electric heart of Thailand, Chiang Mai is its refreshing, soulful breath. Nestled among the highest mountains in the country, the ancient capital of the Lanna Kingdom offers a golfing experience unlike anywhere else in Asia. Here, the air is cooler, the pace is slower, and the fairways wind through lush valleys and terraced rice paddies. It is one of the few places in Thailand where you might actually need a light sweater for your morning tee time. For golfers who love nature, culture, and spectacular mountain backdrops, Chiang Mai is simply unbeatable.
Chiang Mai’s terrain allows for dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking views. These three are the peaks of the region.
Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort The “Augusta of the North” Designed by the award-winning team at Schmidt-Curley, Highlands is consistently voted among the top courses in Asia. With 27 holes playing out into the hills, every angle offers a postcard view. The course is famous for its deep, challenging bunkers and “infinity greens” that seem to drop off into the jungle.
The dramatic elevation changes on the “Mountain Nine” offer panoramic views of the entire valley.
Alpine Golf Resort Chiang Mai Heritage & History Set in a valley between mountain ranges, this course is a sanctuary of green. It famously hosted the golf events for the 1998 Asian Games. Designed by Ron M. Garl, it is known for being a tough test, with water hazards creeping into play and fast, sloping greens that demand your best putting game.
Summit Green Valley Chiang Mai The Queen of Chiang Mai Golf Designed by Dennis Griffiths, Summit Green Valley is located closer to the city center, making it a convenient favorite. It is known for its heavy bunkering and mature, tree-lined fairways. The layout is tricky but fair, rewarding strategy over pure distance.
Night Golf. Summit Green Valley is fully floodlit, allowing you to tee off in the cool of the evening a magical experience under the northern stars.
• The Must-Eat Dish:
You cannot leave without trying Khao Soi, a rich, coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles. The best bowls are often found at humble roadside stalls like Khao Soi Khun Yai.
• Khantoke Dinner:
Experience a traditional Northern Thai dinner where food is served on low pedestal trays (Khantoke) accompanied by cultural dance performances.
• Coffee Culture:
Chiang Mai is the coffee capital of Thailand. Explore the hip cafes in the Nimmanhaemin Road area, where local beans are roasted to perfection.
Things to Do
• Temple with a View:
Drive up the winding mountain road to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. The golden chedi is magnificent, and the view of the city from the temple terrace is unforgettable.
• Night Bazaar:
The famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is perfect for picking up local handicrafts, silk, and souvenirs after your round.
• Ethical Elephant Encounters:
Visit a sanctuary like the Elephant Nature Park to see these majestic gentle giants in a responsible, caring environment.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Khao Soi
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
Coffee Cafe
Elephant Nature Park
Chiang Mai has a distinct “winter” that golfers love.
The Vibe:
The best golf weather in Thailand. Mornings can be crisp (15°C-20°C), warming up to a perfect 28°C.
Golf Conditions:
Peak season. The courses are green, firm, and lively. Bring a windbreaker for those 7 AM tee times!
The Vibe:
Temperatures rise (35°C+) and it can be dry. Note that March is often the “haze” season in the north due to agricultural burning, so visibility can be lower.
Golf Conditions:
Courses are quiet, and green fees are lower. Best to play very early.
The Vibe:
The mountains turn an electric, vibrant green. Rain usually falls in the late afternoon/evening, clearing the air and cooling the temperatures.
Golf Conditions:
Stunning scenery. The rice paddies surrounding the courses are at their most beautiful. Great value for money.
Northern hospitality meets professional logistics.
The best courses in Chiang Mai are often 45-60 minutes outside the city on winding roads. Our experienced drivers and VIP vans ensure you arrive relaxed and safe, not motion-sick.
During the popular cool season, prime morning slots fill up months in advance. We secure these for you before the general public.
Our team in Chiang Mai understands the unique pace of the north. We can recommend the best ethical tours, the spiciest Khao Soi, and the quietest times to play.
As always, our packages are all-inclusive of green fees, caddie fees, and taxes.
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From the misty mountains to the vibrant night markets, let us craft your Chiang Mai escape.
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