Highlands Golf Course

Swinging Amid the Mountains: A Perfect Golf Day at Chiangmai Highlands Golf Course from Baanpong Lodge

Waking up to the gentle sounds of birds and rustling leaves at Baanpong Lodge always feels like a reset button for the soul. Nestled in the lush jungle outskirts of San Kamphaeng District, the lodge offers that rare blend of tranquility and adventure right at your doorstep. One morning, craving a bit more action after days of poolside lounging and jungle walks, I decided to chase a different kind of thrill: golf with panoramic mountain backdrops. Just a short drive away lies Chiangmai Highlands Golf Course (part of the Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort), and let me tell you—it turned out to be one of the highlights of my Chiang Mai stay.

The crisp morning air, the promise of challenging play amid rolling hills, and the fact that it’s so conveniently close made it impossible to resist. What started as a casual half-day outing became an unforgettable round where every tee shot felt framed by nature’s grandeur.

Getting There

From Baanpong Lodge in Ontai, reaching Chiangmai Highlands is straightforward and scenic. I hopped on a scooter (the lodge offers rentals, or you can arrange a car/taxi through them), and the drive took about 15-20 minutes along quiet rural roads winding through rice fields, small villages, and thickening forest. The route is mostly paved and well-maintained, with gentle inclines leading into the foothills—nothing too strenuous, even for beginners on two wheels.

Early mornings are ideal to beat any potential traffic and enjoy cooler temperatures. Parking is ample at the resort clubhouse, and entry is via the main gate (no real entry fee beyond green fees for play). Pro tip: Ask the friendly staff at Baanpong Lodge to help book your tee time in advance—they often have connections and can arrange transport if needed.

What to Expect / Highlights

Chiangmai Highlands isn’t just any golf course—it’s a 27-hole masterpiece (three distinct nine-hole loops) designed by the renowned Schmidt-Curley team, consistently ranked among Thailand’s top courses. Set in the misty foothills east of Chiang Mai, every hole delivers jaw-dropping views of surrounding mountains, lush jungle, and occasional water features that add both beauty and strategy.

The fairways are impeccably maintained, rolling through elevation changes with strategic bunkering (over 130 in total) and fast Tifeagle greens that demand precision. Carts and caddies are compulsory, which makes navigating the hilly terrain easy and adds a personal touch—my caddie was knowledgeable, pointing out the best lines and sharing local insights.

Sensory highlights? The fresh, cool mountain breeze carrying hints of pine and earth, the soft thud of your ball landing on manicured grass, and the serene quiet broken only by distant birds or the occasional splash in a pond. Quirky fun comes from the dramatic layouts—think elevated tees overlooking valleys and greens guarded by dramatic bunkers shaped like works of art.

It’s not just about golf; the cultural vibe is there too, as the course sits on a historic “power spot” linked to revered monk Kuba Sivichai.

Personal Experience & Tips

I played 18 holes on a clear morning and was blown away by how the course changes character across the nines. The signature holes with sweeping water carries and mountain vistas had me pausing just to soak it in—perfect photo ops at almost every turn. What surprised me most was the peaceful atmosphere; despite being a championship-level track, it never felt crowded or rushed.

My favorite moment? Standing on an elevated tee, watching mist lift off the valleys as the sun rose higher—pure magic. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable golf shoes (the terrain has some hills). A hat and bug spray are smart too, though the breeze keeps insects at bay. Best time? November to February for cooler, drier weather; avoid midday heat in hotter months. Watch for afternoon showers in the rainy season, and book early—it’s popular among locals and visitors.

One gentle warning: The greens are speedy and the bunkers deep, so mid-handicappers like me should expect a challenge (and maybe a few extra strokes!).

Practical Info

• Opening Hours: Golf typically starts at dawn (around 6:00-6:30 AM) with last tee times in the afternoon; clubhouse facilities open early.
• Green Fees: Vary by season and package (often including cart and caddie); check the resort website or book via your lodge for current rates and deals.
• Facilities: Full clubhouse with pro shop, restaurant, locker rooms, showers, and even a spa for post-round relaxation. Club, shoe, and umbrella rentals available.
• Nearby Add-Ons: Pair it with a visit to nearby San Kamphaeng Hot Springs (just minutes away) for a soothing soak, or return to Baanpong Lodge for a dip in the pool and dinner.

Why Visit from Baanpong Lodge

Staying at Baanpong Lodge means your days balance pure relaxation—jungle serenity, family-friendly vibes, and homey comforts—with easy access to adventures like this. After a round at Highlands, returning to the lodge’s peaceful setting feels like the perfect cooldown. The short drive keeps things low-stress, letting you enjoy the contrast: morning swings in the hills, afternoon lounging in nature’s embrace. It’s the ideal way to add variety to a chill Chiang Mai escape without long hauls.

Wrapping Up

Chiangmai Highlands Golf Course delivers world-class play wrapped in breathtaking northern Thai scenery—well worth the short trip from Baanpong Lodge. Whether you’re a serious golfer or just love scenic sports, it elevates any stay in the area. Add it to your Chiang Mai itinerary for that perfect mix of adventure and awe.