Golf in Chiang Mai: A Golf Paradise in Northern Thailand
Chiang Mai, located in the north of Thailand, is an undiscovered treasure. Chiang Mai is a tourism hub famous for its rustic nature and unique local culture, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Following this development, many entertainment activities have been allocated, including golf. Thanks to the stunning natural landscape, Chiang Mai makes it so easy to design excellent golf courses, that meet the demand of all golfers levels, even the most demanding ones. Read on this Chiang Mai golf guide to collect helpful information!
An Overview of Golf in Chiang Mai
If you are a golf lover and adventurer simultaneously, then Chiang Mai is a destination that should not be missed. Coming to Chiang Mai, you will feel like you got lost in the vibrant and lively picture, where the golf course boasts the middle of a large lush green with mountains covered in the mist, and the air is so fresh that your breath feels so comfortable.
The most compelling reason why Chiang Mai has been an attractive golf destination is because of the harmonious combination of sport and nature. Imagine yourself standing on the tee box, surrounded by green mountains, a forest shrouded in mist in the distance, and the sound of birds in the forest blending with the wind, this feeling is both peaceful and exciting.
Chiang Mai golf courses are often designed to make the most of natural terrain. There are fairways winding around hills, clear lakes right next to the greens, or even “highly placed” bunkers that make your shots more challenging. But don’t worry; even if you don’t hit the perfect birdie, the surrounding scenery is enough to make you forget all your regrets.
Chiang Mai weather: when is the best time to golf?
Chiang Mai is known for its cool climate throughout the year, especially from November to February, which is the best time for a golf experience. During this period, the morning is cold and sunny, perfect for starting a round of golf without sweating. Even in summer, due to the highland terrain, the weather is more pleasant than in Bangkok or the southern regions.
The decisive point of golf in Chiang Mai is the connection with nature and yourself. After some rounds of golf, visitors can spend time visiting small cafes, attending outdoor yoga classes, or just sitting on the roof of a hotel, sipping cocktails, and enjoying the sunset over Doi Suthep Mountain.
In short, Chiang Mai is not merely a golf destination; it’s a place where you can temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of daily life and fully enjoy the swing in the middle of majestic nature. If you are seeking a golf experience that is both relaxing and unforgettable, Chiang Mai is definitely a place to go.
Best Golf Courses in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, located in the north of Thailand, is the place where you can enjoy the cool climate amidst majestic mountain scenery. With this beneficial weather condition and geography, Chiang Mai has been attracting thousands of visitors coming with the wish to experience an excellent golf course. Below is the list of the best golf courses in Chiang Mai.
Alpine Golf Resort Chiang Mai
The Alpine Golf Resort is located about a 30-minute drive from Chiang Mai city center, making players feel like they are in the midst of pristine nature. This 27-hole golf course is exquisitely designed, fully utilizing the natural terrain, with winding golf courses on the mountains and clear lakes. Especially, the 9th hole par-4 challenges players with a large lake right in front of the green, requiring precision and strategy in every shot. After your round of golf, you can relax in the luxurious clubhouse or enjoy high-class spa services.
Alpine Golf Resort Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort
Surrounded by lush green mountains, Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort is one of the most beautiful golf courses in this area. This 18-hole course is famous for its challenging design, but it is also exciting so that even new golfers can enjoy the game here. We suggest you play at a par of 5 and 3. With narrow lanes and strategic cover that require players’ skills and high concentration, you can get a tense but rewarding experience. After the golf round, you can rest in a luxurious villa or relax at a traditional Thai spa center.
Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort
Royal Chiang Mai Resort
If you love classic and traditional, Royal Chiang Mai Golf Resort will be the perfect choice. This 18-hole course was designed by golf legend Peter Thomson and features a strong British style with wide fairways and smooth greens. The par-3 14th hole is especially impressive with a green surrounded by water, creating a great challenge for players. The peaceful atmosphere and professional service here will surely satisfy you.
Royal Chiang Mai Resort
Summit Green Valley Chaing Mai Country Club
Located close to the city center, Summit Green Valley Chiang Mai Country Club is a perfect combination of modern design and beautiful natural scenery. This 18-hole course has many lakes and skillfully placed bunkers, creating diverse challenges for golfers of all levels. One of the most worthwhile holes is the par-4 17th hole with dogleg left and lake running the right. You should spend time golfing here to get a memorable experience. This resort has several delicious restaurants on-site, therefore, you can enjoy Thai cuisine after your round of golf.
Summit Green Valley Chaing Mai Country Club
Mae Jo Golf Club
About 20 km from the center of Chiang Mai, Mae Jo Golf Club offers a rural golf experience. The 18-hole course is surrounded by rice fields and orchards, creating a relaxing and close-to-nature atmosphere. If you are a nature lover, then this golf course is truly an ideal destination.
We suppose the par-5 4th hole is one of the most interesting holes of the course. With its narrow fairway and green protected by deep bunkers, this hole provides an enjoyable challenge. Moreover, the friendly staff and quality service here will make you feel right at home.
Mae Jo Golf Club
Each golf course in Chiang Mai offers a different and unique golf experience amidst spectacular nature. If you are a golf enthusiast, don’t miss this opportunity to explore these wonderful golf courses when coming to Thailand’s “Rose of the North”. Please refer to Best Chiang Mai Golf Course 2025/2026 for more insight.
Things to do after golf in Chiang Mai
Besides boasting excellent golf courses, Chiang Mai is also a great destination for chilling and relaxation. After your time on golf courses, there is nothing better than spending time enjoying local cuisine and exploring nearby attractions.
Indulge in a traditional Thai spa
After swinging in the sunshine for hours, there is nothing more enjoyable than a real Thai massage. Chiang Mai is renowned for its luxurious spa centers but still maintains its tradition. You should try an herbal compress massage to recover your swing-worn muscle!
Indulge in Thai spa treatment in Chiang Mai
In case you are curious, we suggest two places for you: Fah Lanna Spa with a peaceful space for professional treatment, and Chiang Mai Oasis Spa with beautiful scenery, suitable for those who want to enjoy luxury.
Enjoy Northern Thai cuisine
Chiang Mai is a culinary paradise; therefore, after playing golf, you shouldn’t miss out on a local delicacy. Khao Soi, a famous curry noodle dish in northern Thailand, is the perfect choice. Savoring this dish, where every soft noodle is filled with a strong curry flavor, paired with chicken and a little lemon, your taste buds will totally awaken!
Khao Soi in Chiang Mai
From local sources, we recommend you go to Khao Soi Khun Yai, which is a small bar but deeply loved by the locals, and The Riverside Bar & Restaurant, where you can enjoy the Ping River, a diverse menu, and an airy space.
>>> Visit our 5 Days Golf in Chiang Mai for more information about your unforgettable golf holiday.
Visit temples and villages
Chiang Mai is not only famous for golf but also the “cultural capital” of Thailand. A leisurely afternoon after a golf tournament is an ideal time for exploration.
The Doi Suthep Temple is located on the mountaintop, from where you can see the entire city. After climbing 309 steps (if you are tired you can take a cable car), you will arrive at Chiang Mai’s most sacred temple. Borsang village is renowned for its traditional paper umbrella art. Here, you can witness the process of making umbrellas with your own eyes and even try drawing one as a souvenir.
Doi Suthep Temple
Admire the sunset and cocktails by the Ping River
After a day of exercise, end it with a relaxing afternoon by the Ping River would add a special memory to your golf holiday in Chiang Mai. There are many bars and cafes with open spaces for you to sip a cool cocktail while watching the sunset behind the distant mountains. Sitting under the gentle sunset, watching the slow flow of people, you can find peace in your mind.
Sunset on the Ping River
For the best sunset-watching view, you should visit The Good View Village, which is a combination of restaurant and bar, very suitable for groups of friends or families. You can also come to Woo Café & Art Gallery to enjoy a unique art space, delicious coffee, and an extremely chill atmosphere.
Meet the gentle giants at Elephant Sanctuary
One of the unique experiences in Chiang Mai is visiting elephant sanctuaries. Unlike traditional elephant rides, the sanctuaries here focus on taking care of elephants in their natural environment. You will be able to feed and bathe the elephants and learn more about their lives. Trust me, the smiles of elephants when playing in the water will really melt your heart!
Just come to Elephant Nature Park, one of the most famous elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai!
Elephant Nature Park Tour
How to get to and around Chiang Mai
Although being a “golf paradise,” the natural terrain in Chiang Mai is almost winding roads between hills and bustling old towns. You might feel overwhelmed getting to and around here, but don’t worry too much since we are here to guide you. Below are popular means of transportation along with personal tips to help you stay proactive on your golf vacation in Chiang Mai!
Taxis
Taxis in Chiang Mai are not as common as in Bangkok and are not usually metered, so remember to negotiate a price before getting in. For golfers with bulky bags, taxis are a convenient option for getting from the airport to your hotel or group course.
Tips: Use a ride-hailing app like Grab to avoid being ripped off and know the fare in advance. If you need to travel further to out-of-town courses like Alpine Golf Resort, negotiate a round-trip price from the beginning to avoid overpricing.
Private car rental
If you are traveling in a group or carrying a lot of golf equipment, renting a private car is the perfect choice. Chiang Mai has many car rental services with drivers, or you can drive yourself if you have an international license. Renting a car helps you be proactive with your schedule, especially if you want to combine golfing and visiting tourist attractions.
Tips: If you are traveling with multiple bags or groups, please rent an SUV or 7-seater car. If you are driving autonomously, remember to drive to the left in Thailand, this may be a bit strange if you are not familiar with it. Remember that a reputable car rental company typically requires a deposit and complete documentation to carefully inspect the vehicle before receiving it. Please visit our car rental service in Thailand for more information.
Motorbike rental
Motorbikes are a common “companion” for backpackers traveling to Chiang Mai. If you only carry light luggage and want to travel easily in the old city area, a motorbike is a good choice. However, for large and bulky golf club bags, it is not recommended to choose this option on match days.
Tips: The motorbike rental cost ranges from 200 to 300 baht/day (~6-9 USD). Remember to always bring a helmet and an international driving license if the police ask to check. Avoid driving during rush hour or when it is raining because the streets of Chiang Mai can be quite slippery.
Grab
Grab taxi pick-up and drop-off point in Chiang Mai
Grab is the safest and most convenient solution. Grab operates strongly in Chiang Mai and is a “lifesaver” option when you don’t want to bargain with traditional taxis. This application not only has cars but also provides motorbike services if you travel short distances. In particular, if you need to travel to golf courses far from the center, Grab has clear prices and you don’t have to worry about being overcharged.
Tips: Check the fare in the app in advance when you need to travel far. During rush hour, the fare may increase slightly, if you’re not in a hurry, wait a while for the price to drop.
Airport transfer and service from golf courses
Some of Chiang Mai’s top golf courses offer door-to-door transfers from the airport or hotel. If you book your golf package through a travel agent or golf course, you should ask about this service. This is a convenient option if you don’t want to arrange your own transportation.
Tip: Contact the golf course in advance to book a shuttle bus. If you book a hotel at a golf resort such as Chiang Mai Highlands, most hotels have free internal shuttle buses.
Chiang Mai is not too big, but the combination of a bustling city and peaceful suburbs requires you to choose the right transportation for each schedule. For a golf vacation, we suppose you should rent a private car or use Grab when traveling to major golf courses. And the last tips: don’t forget to save the golf course and hotel locations on Google Maps before leaving because some courses are deep in the mountains and the roads can be a bit winding.
>>> For an immersive and relaxing golf experience in Chiang Mai which allows you to play golf and explore nearby attractions, reach out to our Chiang Mai Golf Package 10 Days.
Chiang Mai Golf Cost
Chiang Mai is the “Northern Rose” of Thailand. This is an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts, combining beautiful nature, cool air, and world-class golf courses. To plan a complete golf vacation, a financial plan is essential. Below is a breakdown of the estimated cost for your golf holiday in Chiang Mai.
Golf cost
The cost of playing golf in Chiang Mai depends on each course and the time of booking. High-end golf courses such as Alpine Golf Resort and Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort have fees ranging from $90 to $110 for an 18-hole round of golf. If you want to save money but still enjoy a nice golf course, choose a mid-range course like Summit Green Valley or Gassan Khuntan, which costs around $60-$65 per round.
Don’t forget to check the policy on caddies and golf carts, as some courses include this fee, while others will charge an additional fee of around $15-$20.
Estimated golf cost in Chiang Mai
Accommodation cost
Chiang Mai offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. If you just need a basic place to stay, budget hotels near the city center cost from $20-$40/night. Hotels such as BP Chaing Mai City Hotel or Gord Chiang Mai are both conveniently located and have full services. For those looking for more luxury and comfort, 4-star and 5-star hotels such as Chiang Mai Plaza Hotel or RatiLanna Riverside Spa Resort cost from $60 to $120 per night. If you want to maximize your golf experience, many golf courses in Chiang Mai, such as Chiang Mai Highlands, offer on-site villas and hotels for around $100-$150/night.
Transportation cost
For convenient travel between the airport, golf courses, and tourist attractions, you can use the Grab service at a reasonable price. Traveling within Chiang Mai city by Grab usually ranges from $2 to $5 per trip. If you are traveling in a group and carrying a golf bag, renting a private car with a driver for about $50-$70/day is a reasonable choice. For golfers who are confident in driving, self-drive car rental service costs about $30-$40/day, but remember that in Thailand, driving is on the left side of the road.
Sightseeing and entertainment cost
In addition to golf, Chiang Mai is also famous for its unique cultural and natural attractions. Entrance fees to famous temples such as Wat Phra Singh or Wat Chedi Luang are only about $1-$3. If you want to combine outdoor activities, tours to elephant sanctuaries such as Elephant Nature Park cost about $60-$80, including transportation and lunch. Don’t forget to try Thai massage or herbal baths at local spas for extremely reasonable prices, about $10-$20/hour.
To save your budget, you can book a stay-and-play golf package, which includes golf, accommodation, and transportation. You can also plan your holiday in the low season (from May to September), to take advantage of golf courses’ discount. And don’t forget to book tee time in advance, especially in the peak season.
In conclusion, golf in Chiang Mai is the mixed experience of top-notch golf courses set amidst the majestic nature, unique local culture, and delicious cuisine. We hope this guide to golf in Chiang Mai provides helpful information for your vacation planning process. If you need further information, please contact us, we’re ready to help at any time!
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