Golfing in Sri Lanka
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, one excellent way to while away your time spent on the island is playing golf. In Sri Lanka there are a number of golf courses – both bucolic and challenging – where you can try your hand at golf: established in 1879, The Royal Colombo Golf Club is thought to be the second oldest golf club outside Britain after India’s Royal Calcutta Golf Club. Sri Lanka is also known to host several international tournaments, including the SriLankan Airlines Golf Classic which takes place at Kandy’s famed much famed Victoria Golf and Country Resort. All golf courses charge a fee of around 30-60 USD and you should also expect to pay caddie and ball spotter fees as well if need be.
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Victoria Golf and Country Resort
This 18-hole golfing delight is one of the most popular golf courses in the world. Stretching across a spacious area of 517 acres, the Victoria Golf course is a challenge, because of its terrain, to even veterans of the sport. A nominal green fee is levied at different rates for locals and foreigners, with additional caddie and ball spotter fees. It is mandatory that all golfers get one caddie and ball spotter, in order to gain a better golfing experience. The academy wing organised classes to enthusiastic beginners and hosts a range of tournaments for seasoned players. The resort is filled with various other recreational activities that one can indulge in.
Royal Colombo Golf Club
The Royal Colombo Golf Course was first established in 1879 when the sport itself was introduced to Sri Lanka. It gained the ‘Royal’ status in 1928 and is the second oldest golf club to gain the ‘royal’ status outside of Britain. Spanning across acres of greenery, the coveted club demands high discipline from the player. There are 18 holes, 6,560 Yards Black Tees, 6,303 Yards White Tees, 5,186 Yards Ladies’ Tee. There are separate practice sections as well. Green fees and caddie fees will be levied, but these are reduced if a visitor is a member of a golf club with which the Colombo club has an agreement with. The club has a full functioning ladies’ division which has participated in and won many tournaments. The gym and a relaxing lounge are among the club’s notable features. Located in the heart of Colombo, the Club welcomes temporary members to enjoy a round of golf in its serene setting.
Nuwara Eliya Golf Club
The Nuwara Eliya Golf course set in one of the most scenic towns of the country is hugely popular with visitors due to its beauty as well as its demanding playing standards. Being at an altitude of 6,000 feet effects play as the ball travels faster and almost with an estimated six percent accuracy. This 18-hole golf course spans across almost 100 acres of land. Visitors are welcome as temporary members where if you are not a member, the club requires that visitors make a reservation prior to their arrival. There is a lively bar and restaurant where members can entertain guests. The club has a separate ladies’ section as well.
Eagles’ Golf Links
Located on the East coast of the island, the Eagle’s Golf course boasts a scintillating view of the water vistas of the Marble beach and well-kept gardens. The 171 acred golf course will test the golfing prowess of players since it has a slew of challenges like sand bunkers and water hedges, that are bound to provide a tough game. A green fee of $50 for foreigners and 2,500 rupees for locals is levied, respectively. Other services pertaining to the sport like caddie, ball spotters and clubs are provided to the players on request. After an intense game the players can ease off at the cub house which has a breathtaking view and serene ambiance. The pro shop at the club house precinct sells golfing accessories like T shirts, golf caps, clubs, balls and shoes. One can purchase all golfing essentials from here on arrival as well. The Eagles’ club house provides accommodation for members as well as other players; extra slash on the price for ex-servicemen and serving military personnel, since the place is owned and managed by the Sri Lankan Airforce. With its unique location, well-planned course and cheaper fees one can be assured that Eagles’ provides a top notch golfing experience.
Diyatalawa Golf Course
The Diyatalawa golf course, maintained by the Sri Lanka Military Academy (SLMA) and located within the grounds of the Academy is a golf ground that presents a challenging course along with a scenic view. A 9-hole golf course in the past, the course was recently remodeled to incorporate an 18-hole golf course with state-of-the-art facilities that is capable of hosting national as well as international events. Set close to the Diyatalawa town, the course is close to Bandarawela and Haputale, and is a new venue for golfers who usually play at the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club. However, it is imperative that you obtain permission from the SLMA before.
