Thailand has the Art of Golf down to a tee

Every year more and more savvy golfers are swinging by the balmy shores of Thailand for memorable games on some of the world’s finest fairways. Currently boasting over 200 courses, Thailand’s tropical climate, low green fees and highly-trained, service-oriented caddies attract the lion’s share of the region’s golf tourists and was recently voted “Best Golf Destination in Asia” by the respected golfing bible Asia Golf Monthly.

Many of the Kingdom’s inbound golf tour operators are seeing business double year-on-year and the market is rapidly expanding with a new course opening almost every month. Many of these excellent championship courses have been designed by golfing legends including Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo and Robert Trent Jones Jr. and boast wonderfully varied terrains.

Indeed, one of the most fascinating aspects of golfing in Thailand is the broad diversity of locations and environments in which the courses are situated. From the urban excitement of Bangkok and the seaside charms of the eastern seaboard, from the pristine paradise of Phuket in the south, to the verdant hills of Chiang Mai, Thailand offers a veritable tapestry of golfing delights.

One such outstanding facility with an exceptional location is the Kirimaya Golf Resort and Spa, is set on 250 acres right on the edge of Khao Yai National Park, a lush tropical forest two hours outside Bangkok that is home to elephants, tigers, and more than 300 species of birds.

This exclusive 18-hole championship golf course – designed by Jack Nicklaus – is beautifully set within natural surroundings and features panoramic views of Khao Yai's lush greenery and mountains. The course features ranges from 4,875 yards to an incredible 7,115 yards and has an innovative single-track layout.

In addition to tee times, Kirimaya's concierge can organize rafting, mountain biking, bird-watching, animal safaris and tours of the Angkor Wat–like ruins at Phi Mai, two hours north. So for both golfers and lovers of the great outdoors, a trip to a Thai golf resort is more than par for the course. Check a golf package at Kirimaya Khao Yai.