Golfing in Chiang Mai: Mountain Views, Crisp Air, and Hidden Gems

17 June 2025

If you’re dreaming of a golf holiday in Thailand that blends cooler weather, lush green backdrops, and a laid-back vibe, Chiang Mai should be on your radar. Nestled in the mountainous north of Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a unique experience for golf travelers: scenic fairways surrounded by jungle hills, clean fresh air, and a slower pace of life. Whether you’re escaping the tropical heat or simply want to try something different from beachside golf, golfing in Chiang Mai offers a peaceful yet exciting change of scenery. And with a range of well-designed courses within easy reach of the city, there’s something here for every kind of player.

Why Visit Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s most charming and culturally rich regions. Known as the “Rose of the North,” the city is surrounded by forested mountains and ancient temples. It was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, and that legacy still influences the area’s architecture, festivals, and traditions. The old city is enclosed by a moat and remnants of a medieval wall, and inside you’ll find more than 300 temples. Including the iconic Wat Phra Singh and the golden mountain-top Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Beyond its historical appeal, Chiang Mai is also famous for its relaxed atmosphere, welcoming locals, and creative spirit.

Foodies will love exploring Chiang Mai’s northern Thai cuisine, which includes specialties like khao soi (curried noodle soup), sai ua (spicy sausage), and nam prik noom (green chili dip). The city’s night markets, like the Sunday Walking Street and Warorot Market, are perfect for picking up handmade crafts, street food, and souvenirs. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy elephant sanctuaries, zip-lining, hot springs, and waterfall hikes, while spiritual travelers often join yoga and meditation retreats in the surrounding hills. The area is also a hub for digital nomads and creatives, making it a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity.

With direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, and international cities like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Chiang Mai is easily accessible. The cooler climate, cultural depth, and natural beauty make it an exceptional destination. Not only for golf but also for a rich, multidimensional holiday.

Why a Golf Holiday in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai is known for its rich culture, stunning temples, and thriving food scene but it’s also a fantastic golf destination. Unlike the more humid regions of southern Thailand, Chiang Mai enjoys a cooler climate, especially from November to February. That makes walking the course much more enjoyable and rounds more comfortable even during midday tee times.

The region’s natural beauty is another draw. Many courses are set against dramatic mountain ranges, rivers, and lakes, offering not only a great game but also postcard-worthy views on every hole. Combine that with excellent service, quality caddies, and surprisingly affordable green fees, and you’ve got a winning golf getaway.

Best Golf Courses in and Around Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai boasts several excellent golf courses, and Fairways of Eden proudly partners with some of the very best in the area. Here are the top picks for your Chiang Mai golf itinerary:

⛳ Alpine Golf Resort – One of the top-ranked courses in Northern Thailand, Alpine offers a championship layout with rolling fairways, island greens, and breathtaking mountain views. A must-play for serious golfers.

⛳ Royal Chiang Mai Golf Resort – Designed by Peter Thomson, this parkland-style course blends British tradition with Thai landscapes. Expect tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and a peaceful countryside setting.

⛳ North Hill Golf Club – Located just 15 minutes from the city, North Hill is a modern course that combines top-tier design with mountain backdrops and luxury clubhouse amenities.

⛳ Gassan Khuntan Golf Resort – Perhaps one of the most scenic courses in the region, Gassan Khuntan is set near a historic railway bridge and features dramatic elevation changes, making it both beautiful and challenging.

⛳ Gassan Legacy Golf Club – Recently renovated, this course offers wide fairways, large lakes, and plenty of strategic play opportunities. Ideal for mid to high handicappers.

⛳ Gassan Panorama Golf Club – With panoramic mountain views and a water-rich layout, this course is popular among visiting golfers who want variety in their round.

⛳ Waterford Valley Golf Club – Located slightly outside Chiang Mai, this hidden gem offers open spaces, cool breezes, and a rural setting that’s perfect for a relaxed day on the fairways.

Is It Worth Bringing Your Clubs?

Traveling to Chiang Mai with your own golf clubs is easy, especially if you’re flying in from Bangkok or internationally. The local airport is well-connected, and most courses are within 30 to 60 minutes from town. However, if you prefer to travel light, rental sets are available at most courses, and Fairways of Eden can help arrange club hire in advance. If you’re planning to play multiple rounds, we definitely recommend bringing your own set. But for casual golfers or travelers mixing in a single round between sightseeing, rentals are more than enough.

When Is the Best Time to Golf in Chiang Mai?

The ideal season for golf in Chiang Mai runs from November to February, when the air is cool and crisp and the skies are clear. Early mornings are fresh and often misty, giving your first few holes an ethereal quality. Even during the hot season, mornings and late afternoons remain pleasant enough for a full round.

The rainy season (June to September) brings more humidity and the occasional afternoon shower, but it rarely washes out an entire day. Many courses drain quickly and offer special rates during the green season, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious travelers.

What Makes Chiang Mai Golf Unique?

Golfing in Chiang Mai isn’t just about the game, it’s about the surroundings. You’ll see monks walking the roadside on your way to the course, hear the distant hum of a temple bell, and enjoy post-round meals featuring northern Thai cuisine with mountain views.

🏞️ Cooler climate makes walking possible and pleasant
🌄 Scenic terrain with hills, rivers, and lush jungle
💆 Relaxed atmosphere that fits perfectly with golf and leisure
🍜 Cultural flair with food, temples, and handicrafts all around

It’s also worth noting that Chiang Mai is perfect for golfers who want to travel with partners or families who don’t golf. The region has plenty of non-golf activities, from cooking classes and elephant sanctuaries to waterfall hikes and day trips to nearby villages.

Suggested 3-Day Golf Itinerary in Chiang Mai

Here’s how you can make the most of a short golf break:

📅 Day 1: Arrival and afternoon round at North Hill Golf Club, followed by dinner in the city’s old town.

📅 Day 2: Full-day golf at Alpine Golf Resort or Gassan Khuntan, with lunch at the clubhouse and a sunset spa session.

📅 Day 3: Morning round at Royal Chiang Mai Golf Resort, then spend the afternoon exploring temples or shopping for local crafts.

Fairways of Eden can help you customize this itinerary and add on transfers, club rentals, or sightseeing experiences.

Chiang Mai Is Northern Thailand’s Golf Treasure

Chiang Mai may not get as much spotlight as Phuket or Pattaya when it comes to golf tourism, but it delivers a different kind of magic. The combination of stunning scenery, excellent courses, and a peaceful vibe makes it a must-play destination for golfers looking to explore more of Thailand.

Whether you’re a seasoned player chasing a new landscape or a holiday golfer wanting a cool escape from the coast, Chiang Mai welcomes you with open fairways and warm hospitality.