Opened in 1994, Royal Ratchaburi is one of the most spectacular Kanchanaburi golf courses. The hilly terrain and excellent views of Burmese mountain ranges make for aesthetically pleasing, yet challenging golf.

Greens are well-kept, which is unusual for courses in such remote settings. Royal Ratchaburi fairways follow the contours of the hills and play for the most part up and down.

The front nine has mostly wider fairways than the back nine, which is considered more challenging. There are some excellent, but short par-3 holes that require precise shots over deep canyons.

The clubhouse, locker rooms, restaurant, and practice facilities are very basic, but that is not what the golfers come to Ratchaburi for anyway. Locals consider this a hidden gem of a course and one of the best in the River Kwai area. Royal Ratchaburi is an excellent course for those travelling between Kanchanaburi and Hua Hin.

Local tip: Troops of monkeys can be found off several of the holes, including the opener, so golfer s should beware for any “missing” well-stuck balls.