Thailand's Top Golf Courses Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai

Bhumibol Dam

25 km west of Highway 1, near Tak, 250 km south of Chiang Mai.
Tel: (055) 512-635

If you really want to get away from it all, one of Southeast Asia's most beautiful courses is situated in the absolute middle of nowhere in north-central Thailand, Bhumibol Dam is one of several fine courses owned by EGAT (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand). Set in spectacular scenery, the original magnificent trees have been carefully preserved. Ridiculously inexpensive, those who have made the long journey claim to have found the ultimate golf experience.

Booking: no problem - you could be alone on the course.

Green fees: weekday/weekend $.

Chiang Mai-Lamphun Country Club

On Highway 1006 (to Lamphun) about 30 km southeast of Chiang Mai.
Tel: (053) 248-321; Fax (053) 248-937

Gorgeous valley setting for this picturesque 18-hole par 72 course deep in the countryside. lt recently changed its name from Chiang Mai Country Club. The drier heat of Chiang Mai makes this area the most pleasant climate in Thailand for Western visitors, especially in the winter months. Very fair value. The best hotels are in Chiang Mai city, 45 minutes drive.

Booking: reserve at weekends. Closed on Tuesdays.

Facilities: pro-shop, club hire, restaurant, carts.

Green fees: weekday $; w/e $$.

Green Valley

Chiang Mai 10 km north of Chiang Mai, near Mae Rim.
Tel: (053) 297- 386; Fax: (053) 316-8349

The developers stripped all the vegetation off the site before creating a course of wide open spaces with little shade. The fairways and greens are in superb condition, and the clubhouse is a model of excellence. Dennis Griffiths has created a long and thirsty round, very difficult to play to par. It is fairly expensive.

Booking: members 'priority, but should be no problems for visitors.

Green fees: weekday $$$: weekend $$$$

Lanna

2 km north of Chiang Mai on the Mae Rim Rd.
Tel: (053) 221911; (053) 221743

Lovely old 18-hole par 72 course overlooking the race track and with views of the famed Doi Suthep temple. The fairways, now fully watered. are lined with mature trees, providing lots of welcome shade. There is a modest new clubhouse. Owned and managed by the Royal Thai army, the course is excellent value for money. lf you can't get on, try Thailand's oldest course, the 9-hole Gymkhana Club, just across the river.

Booking: often busy in the evenings and at weekends, but you should get on, unless there is a tournament.

Facilities: pro shop, club hire, carts. restaurant.

Green fees: weekday $; weekend $$.

Santiburi

10 km southeast of Chiang Rai, 80 km north of Chiang Mai.
Tel: (053) 718-081; Fax: (053) 717-377

Chiang Rai, the last stop before the Golden Triangle and Burma, is a charming riverside town with great holiday potential. The 18-hole par 72 is set on low hills, with distant views of mountains. It is designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and, as always with his courses, is thoroughly enjoyable for all classes of golfer. There is a most agreeable clubhouse and a 120-bed hotel is planned.

Booking: should be no problem.

Green fees: weekday $$; weekend $$$.

Waterford Valley

On Highway 1173, northeast of Chiang Rai, near the new airport.
Tel: (053) 718-076; Fax: 260-0405

Set in attractive rolling countryside, this enjoyable course was designed by Rathert International. There is a pleasant clubhouse, at which visitors are made to feel truly welcome. A five-star hotel is planned. Chiang Rai, being so remote and cooler than most of Thailand is one of the very best places for a quiet weekend, with many excursions available for the family. Highly recommended.

Booking: should be no problem.

Green fees: weekday $$; weekend $$$