Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir union territory, is a city that has a rich history and a vibrant culture. It is a city that lies in the Kashmir Valley along the banks of the Jhelum River, and the shores of Dal and Anchar lakes, between the Hari Parbat and Shankaracharya hills. The city is known for its natural beauty, its various gardens, its waterfronts and its houseboats. It is also known for its traditional Kashmiri handicrafts like the Kashmir shawl, papier-mâché, wood carving, carpet weaving, and jewel making, as well as for dried fruits. It is the second-largest metropolitan area in the Himalayas.
Srinagar is often called the “Paradise on Earth” because of its scenic splendor and charm. The city has been a favorite destination for tourists, pilgrims, and adventurers for centuries. The city has also been a witness to many historical events and movements that shaped the region’s destiny, such as the Buddhist influence, the Hindu rule, the Muslim invasion, the Sikh conquest, the Dogra dynasty, and the Kashmir conflict. The city has also been a source of inspiration for many poets, writers, artists, and filmmakers who have captured its essence in their works.
Srinagar is not just about history and culture. It is also about golf. Srinagar has three of the finest golf courses in the region: The Kashmir Golf Club, The Royal Springs Golf Course, and The Gulmarg Golf Course. All three are located within or near the city limits and offer an enjoyable golfing experience. They are designed by renowned golf course architects and feature lush green fairways, challenging bunkers, and scenic water features. They also have clubhouses that offer various facilities and amenities for their players.
Golf Courses in Srinagar
Srinagar has three of the finest golf courses in the region: The Kashmir Golf Club, The Royal Springs Golf Course, and The Gulmarg Golf Course. All three are located within or near the city limits and offer an enjoyable golfing experience. They are designed by renowned golf course architects and feature lush green fairways, challenging bunkers, and scenic water features. They also have clubhouses that offer various facilities and amenities for their players.
The Kashmir Golf Club
The Kashmir Golf Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in India. It was established in 1887 by Sir Neville Chamberlain1, a British officer who was fond of golf. The club is located near the India Gate2, a majestic arch built in memory of the Indian soldiers who died in World War I.
The Kashmir Golf Club is an 18-hole par-72 course that measures 6,985 yards from the championship tees. The course is designed by Peter Harradine3, a famous golf course architect from Switzerland. The course is known for its narrow fairways, thick roughs, and challenging greens. The signature hole is the par-4 9th, which requires a tee shot over water to a dogleg right fairway. The green is surrounded by bunkers and trees, making it a difficult approach shot.
The Kashmir Golf Club also has a clubhouse that offers various facilities and amenities for its members and guests. These include a pro shop, a driving range, a caddy service, a locker room, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, a spa, a library, a bar, and a restaurant. The club also organizes various social and cultural events throughout the year.
The Royal Springs Golf Course
The Royal Springs Golf Course is another golf course in Srinagar that offers a luxurious golfing experience. It was established in 2001 by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) as a part of its initiative to promote golf tourism in the state. The club is located near the Dal Lake, a famous attraction that features houseboats and floating gardens.
The Royal Springs Golf Course is an 18-hole par-72 course that measures 7,063 yards from the championship tees. The course is designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., a legendary golfer and golf course architect from America. The course is known for its wide fairways, fast greens, and strategic bunkers. The signature hole is the par-5 18th, which requires a long drive over water to reach a dogleg left fairway that leads to an island green.
The Royal Springs Golf Course also has a clubhouse that offers various facilities and amenities for its members and guests. These include a pro shop, a driving range, a caddy service, a locker room, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, a spa, multiple food and beverage options, and some well-appointed accommodation.
