Highlands Golf Course

A morning round at Chiangmai Highlands, 15–20 minutes from Ontai

After a few days of the pool and walks around Baanpong Lodge, I wanted a game of golf. I chose Chiangmai Highlands Golf Course, part of the Chiangmai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort in the foothills east of Chiang Mai, and it was a half-day outing from the lodge.

Getting there

I went by scooter; the lodge can also arrange a car or taxi. The drive took 15–20 minutes on quiet, mostly paved rural roads through rice fields and villages, climbing gently into the foothills. Nothing on it is difficult on two wheels.

Go early for cooler air. There is plenty of parking at the clubhouse and no charge to enter beyond the green fee. The lodge can book your tee time in advance and organise transport.

The course

Highlands has 27 holes, three nines, designed by Schmidt-Curley. The fairways run over a lot of elevation change, with more than 130 bunkers and fast TifEagle greens. Several tees are raised above valleys, and there are water carries on some of the signature holes, with the mountains behind.

Carts and caddies are compulsory, which on this terrain is no hardship. My caddie knew the lines and was worth listening to.

The course is said to sit on a historic “power spot” linked to the revered monk Kuba Sivichai.

How the round went, and when to play

I played 18 holes on a clear morning. The nines are noticeably different from each other, and the course never felt crowded. The best of it was standing on a raised tee early on, with mist lifting off the valleys below.

The greens are quick and the bunkers deep, so a mid-handicapper like me should expect to drop a few shots. Bring water, sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent, and shoes you can walk hills in. November to February is the coolest and driest time to play; in the hot months avoid the middle of the day, and in the rainy season expect afternoon showers. It is popular with locals as well as visitors, so book ahead.

Practical info

• Opening Hours: Play starts at dawn (around 6:00-6:30 AM), with the last tee times in the afternoon; the clubhouse opens early.
• Green Fees: Vary by season and package, often including cart and caddie; check the resort’s website or ask the lodge to book for current rates.
• Facilities: Clubhouse with pro shop, restaurant, locker rooms, showers and a spa. Clubs, shoes and umbrellas for hire.
• Combine with: San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, a few minutes away, for a soak, or back to Baanpong Lodge for a dip in the pool and dinner.