If you are looking for a unique and memorable golfing experience, you should definitely visit the Gulmarg golf course in Kashmir. This is one of the most scenic and challenging golf courses in the world, located in a beautiful meadow surrounded by pine and fir trees. The golf course is situated at an elevation of 2,650 metres (8,690 ft) above sea level, making it the second highest green golf course in the world. It lies 52 kilometres (32 mi) from Srinagar in the west. The golf course gets covered by a thick layer of snow during the winter. It is open from April to November.
History
The Gulmarg golf course has a rich and fascinating history. It was first built as a 6-hole course by Colonel Neville Chamberlain in 1890 at Gulmarg, which means the meadow of flowers. In 1922, the first golf championship was played at the course with the introduction of Nedou’s Cup in 1929. The course was later redesigned and turned into an 18-hole course by Peter Thomson in 1970. It was developed in a links-style in accordance with its surrounding natural landscape and made more challenging by relocation of the greens. The golf course hosted the Northern India Cup regularly until 1989, when it was shifted to Delhi. In 2011, the golf course was redesigned again by Ranjit Nanda, a Delhi-based golf architect. From December to March, the golf course becomes a winter sports center for skiing and snowboarding.
Golf Course Layout
The Gulmarg golf course features 18 holes with a total length of 7,505 yards (6,863 m), making it the longest golf course in India . The course has a par of 72 and a slope rating of 126. The fairways are narrow and undulating, with many bunkers and water hazards. The greens are fast and well-maintained, with subtle breaks and slopes. The course offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and valleys.
Slope and Difficulty
The Gulmarg golf course is not for the faint-hearted. It is one of the most difficult courses in the world, requiring accuracy, skill and stamina. The high altitude makes the ball fly farther but also reduces the oxygen level for the players. The weather can be unpredictable and change quickly, affecting the playing conditions. The course demands strategic thinking and careful shot selection, as well as physical endurance and mental toughness.
Signature Hole and Longest Hole
The signature hole of the Gulmarg golf course is the 8th hole, a 610-yard par 5. It is also the longest hole in India and one of the longest in the world . The hole starts with a downhill tee shot that needs to avoid a stream on the left and trees on the right. The second shot is uphill towards a narrow green guarded by bunkers on both sides. The green has a severe slope from back to front, making it difficult to hold or putt.
The longest hole of the Gulmarg golf course is also one of its most memorable ones. It offers a thrilling challenge for golfers of all levels and a spectacular view of the surroundings.
Interesting Story
One of the most interesting stories about the Gulmarg golf course is related to its ball boys. These are local boys who accompany the players and help them find their balls in the rough or retrieve them from the crows who often steal them. The ball boys are also experts in skiing and snowboarding, as they use these skills to navigate the snow-covered course in winter. They are friendly and helpful, and often share their knowledge and stories about Gulmarg with the visitors.
Local Weather and Best Time to Visit
The local weather of Gulmarg is influenced by its high altitude and mountainous terrain. It has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. Spring (March to May) is pleasant and colorful, with flowers blooming all over the meadow. Summer (June to August) is mild and sunny, with occasional showers. Autumn (September to November) is cool and crisp, with golden leaves falling from the trees. Winter (December to February) is cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below zero.
The best time to visit Gulmarg golf course depends on your preference and purpose. If you want to enjoy golfing in a green and serene setting, you should visit between April and November. If you want to experience skiing or snowboarding on the golf course, you should visit between December and March. However, you should always check the weather forecast before planning your trip, as it can change quickly and unexpectedly.
Clubhouse
The Gulmarg golf course has a clubhouse that provides various facilities and services for the players and visitors. The clubhouse has a pro shop that sells golf equipment and accessories, a restaurant that serves delicious food and beverages, a locker room that offers storage and changing facilities, and a lounge that offers relaxation and entertainment. The clubhouse also has a conference hall that can host meetings and events, and a banquet hall that can host parties and celebrations. The clubhouse is open from 9 am to 6 pm every day.
Conclusion
The Gulmarg golf course is a must-visit destination for golf lovers and nature lovers alike. It is a place where you can enjoy the game of golf in a breathtaking setting, challenge yourself with a tough course, learn from the local ball boys, and have fun with skiing or snowboarding in winter. It is a place where you can create unforgettable memories and stories. It is a place where you can find paradise in Kashmir.
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