India’s Finest Golf Courses: A Tour Through History, Heritage, and World-Class Design
Explore India’s top-tier golf destinations where legacy meets luxury
DLF Golf & Country Club – A Modern Marvel in Gurugram
Located in Northern India, the DLF Golf & Country Club in Gurugram offers an unparalleled golfing experience with 27 holes, comprising the Gary Player 18-hole course and a 9-hole Arnold Palmer course.
- The Gary Player course is acclaimed for its challenging layout, strategic bunkering, and immaculate greens.
- The Arnold Palmer course, retaining its floodlighting, allows night golf, a rarity in India.
- It stands out for its state-of-the-art facilities, often hosting international championships, making it a premier destination in Indian golf.
Delhi Golf Club (Lodhi) – A Historic Oasis in the Capital
Set in the heart of Delhi, the Lodhi Course is steeped in history, surrounded by ancient tombs and Mughal ruins, reflecting the city’s royal past.
- Spread over 220 acres, it offers two unique courses: Lodhi and Peacock.
- The heritage setting provides a rare blend of culture and sport, drawing golf and history enthusiasts alike.
- Frequented by dignitaries and elite players, it remains a symbol of legacy golf in India.
Kalhaar Blues & Greens – Nicklaus Design Excellence in Ahmedabad
Nestled in Western India, Kalhaar Blues & Greens debuted in 2012 as the second Nicklaus Design course in the country.
- Developed by the Navratna Group, it is integrated within a large real estate township, combining luxury living with elite golfing.
- Known for its USGA-standard greens and strategic hazards, it challenges even the most skilled golfers.
- Its modern layout and serene setting make it a top draw in Gujarat’s golf circuit.
Jaypee Greens – Greg Norman’s Vision in Greater Noida
Situated in Northern India, Jaypee Greens opened in 2000 as Greg Norman’s only design in India.
- The course is the centerpiece of a 430-acre residential complex, blending premium living with world-class sport.
- Known for its wide fairways, deep bunkers, and multiple water bodies, it provides a championship-level challenge.
- It has hosted numerous national-level events, making it a flagship venue for Indian professional golf.
Classic Golf & Country Club – South Asia’s First Nicklaus Signature Course
Located near Manesar in Haryana, the Classic Golf & Country Club is home to the Ridge and Valley nines, South Asia’s first Jack Nicklaus Signature course.
- Designed to suit both amateur and professional golfers, it showcases dramatic elevation changes and scenic vistas.
- The venue has regularly hosted Asian Tour events, boosting India’s profile on the international golfing map.
- It remains a benchmark for golf course design in the region.
Karnataka Golf Association – Urban Tranquility in Bangalore
Established in 1986, the Karnataka Golf Association (KGA) course is situated in Challaghatta, near Bangalore’s city center.
- Built on 124 acres, this 18-hole layout blends urban accessibility with lush landscaping.
- The course is known for its challenging water hazards and tight fairways, demanding precision from golfers.
- KGA serves as a hub for Southern India’s golf community, often hosting major tournaments.
Royal Calcutta Golf Club – The Oldest Golf Institution Outside the UK
Located in Kolkata, the Royal Calcutta Golf Club (RCGC) holds the distinction of being the oldest golf club outside the British Isles, established in 1829.
- With its British heritage, the club offers a traditional parkland layout, featuring natural water hazards and colonial charm.
- It has hosted numerous prestigious events and remains a symbol of Indian golfing heritage.
- RCGC continues to inspire generations of Indian golfers.
Royal Springs Golf Course – Kashmir’s Natural Jewel
Overlooking the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Royal Springs Golf Course is designed by Robert Trent Jones II and offers breathtaking views of the Zabarwan Hills.
- The course’s lush fairways and natural springs offer a unique playing environment.
- It provides a rare opportunity to golf amidst alpine beauty, making it one of India’s most scenic courses.
- It plays a key role in promoting golf tourism in Jammu & Kashmir.
Ootacamund Gymkhana Club – A Hill Station Legacy
In the tranquil hill town of Ooty, the Ootacamund Gymkhana Club is among the oldest courses in Southern India.
- Located at 7,000 feet above sea level, it offers a cool-climate golfing escape.
- The course is characterized by tight lies, natural terrain, and unpredictable weather, testing a golfer’s versatility.
- It reflects a colonial-era charm, often attracting tourists seeking both golf and nostalgia.
Prestige Golfshire – Modern Luxury Near Nandi Hills
Just 30 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, Prestige Golfshire is a semi-private resort course designed by Bob Hunt.
- Nestled close to Nandi Hills, the course merges contemporary design with natural beauty.
- Its integrated villa development and 5-star amenities appeal to both residents and visiting golfers.
- As one of Bangalore’s premier golfing destinations, it epitomizes luxury and convenience.
These courses represent India’s diverse golfing landscape, combining heritage, modernity, and stunning environments. Whether you’re drawn to the history of Royal Calcutta, the innovation of DLF, or the natural splendor of Royal Springs, India offers a rich golfing journey for enthusiasts worldwide.
