How To Plan A Perfect Golf Tour in Sri Lanka
A golf tour in Sri Lanka offers the perfect combination of world-class golf courses, stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts. Planning a golf tour requires a lot of preparation and insight to get the most out of your trip. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this guide will help you plan the perfect golf tour in Sri Lanka.
Choose the best time to visit
Although Sri Lanka is a year-round golf destination, its climate can vary from region to region due to its varied topography. Therefore, you should research the weather patterns for the specific golf locations you plan to visit and plan your trip accordingly. Temperatures are fairly consistent throughout the year, with coastal areas averaging 25-30°C and highlands averaging 15-18°C. Generally, the best time to golf in Sri Lanka is from December to mid-April, which is also the peak tourist season.
Traveling in the off-season can also offer quieter golf courses and better accommodation deals, although you may need to plan for occasional showers. If you visit during the summer months (May to September), you can play golf courses on the East Coast and northern areas such as Eagles Golf Links to enjoy dry, sunny weather, as the west and southwest coasts tend to be wet at this time. On the other hand, the west and southwest have favorable weather conditions during the winter months (October to February) when the monsoon season sweeps east and north.
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Choose the suitable golf courses and book tee times
Sri Lanka is home to some of South Asia’s most beautiful golf courses, offering a combination of natural scenery, challenging terrain and rich history. Start with the Royal Colombo Club, one of Asia’s oldest golf courses. Located in the heart of Colombo, the course offers a peaceful and unique experience, with well-manicured fairways and challenging greens set against the backdrop of the vibrant city.
Victoria Golf & Country Resort is also a must-visit for any golfer coming here. The course is surrounded by mountains and the Victoria Reservoir, ranked as one of Asia’s most beautiful golf courses. Another iconic location is the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, nestled in the cool hills of Sri Lanka. Known as “Little England,” the area offers a unique experience with its colonial charm and cool climate. For those craving a coastal golf adventure, Eagles’ Golf Links in Trincomalee offers stunning ocean views and challenging terrain.
Once you’ve chosen your preferred course, book your tee time in advance, especially during peak season as the courses can get crowded. You can book online through the golf course’s booking system such as website, hotline or through agents to get better prices and reserve your desired tee time.
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Book accommodation and transportation in advance
Accommodation
When planning a golf trip to Sri Lanka, choosing the right accommodation is essential for a more convenient and comfortable experience. Many top golf courses are located close to resorts or right on-site, catering to every golfer’s budget and preference. Some 5-star resorts include Cinnamon Grand Colombo, Shangri-La Colombo, Earl’s Regency and Nuwara Eliya. These properties offer everything from world-class facilities, spa services to fine dining, ensuring a relaxing stay after a day on the greens. In addition to high-end hotels, you can also choose from boutique hotels and budget-friendly properties that are still in great locations near golf courses, such as Cinnamon Citadel Kandy and The Blackpool Hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Transportation
Booking your transportation in advance is equally important. For longer distances, you can take domestic flights to save time or take the train to see the beautiful countryside. If you want more privacy and comfort, you can hire a private transfer or self-drive car. This allows for flexibility in getting between golf courses, hotels and attractions. If you are planning a multi-destination trip, consider booking a package that includes all your transfers, ensuring a smooth experience.
Packing essentials for your golf tour in Sri Lanka
Carry your essential golf equipment such as golf clubs, balls, gloves and tees. Keep them in a travel bag to avoid any damage during transport. If you want to travel lighter, you can rent golf equipment at affordable rates from golf courses. In addition, pack light and breathable clothing, and take a light jacket or sweater if you are golfing in hilly areas like Nuwara Eliya. The weather in Sri Lanka can be unpredictable so carry a raincoat or umbrella in case of sudden showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential not only for exploring golf courses but also for sightseeing.
Budgeting and Currency Tips
Budgeting ahead of time will make your golfing trip more enjoyable and manageable. Find out the costs of golf courses and accommodation in advance as prices can vary significantly depending on the type and length of stay. Many hotels offer all-inclusive golf packages that include green fees, accommodation, caddy services and transport, saving you money compared to booking each separately.
The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), although major cities and resorts accept Visa cards or bank transfers, bring some cash for small items such as tips for caddies, drivers and hotel staff. Exchange money at reputable places such as the airport, banks or at your hotel.
Combining golf with other activities
Cultural and Historical Exploration
Sri Lanka is a tourist paradise with its 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, tropical climate, beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine. Besides golfing, take time to explore the rich culture and history of this island nation. Some of the iconic landmarks include the National Museum, Gangaramaya Temple and bustling Pettah Market in Colombo, Hakgala Botanical Gardens in Nuwara Eliya, Anuradhapura,… If you play golf in Kandy, take time to visit the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural performance.
Nature adventure and beach relaxation
Home to a wealth of wildlife, Sri Lanka has 26 national parks and 2 marine parks such as Pigeon Island National Park, Udawalawe National Park and Yala National Park. You can visit them on a tour, offering exciting safaris where you can see iconic Sri Lankan leopards, sloth bears, elephants and exotic birds. These wildlife experiences will add a little adventure to your golf trip.
Surrounded by a long coastline of 1,340 km, the country has many beautiful beaches with white sand and clear blue water, some of which are among the most pristine in Asia. Visit the southern beaches, including Mirissa, the most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka. You can spend time relaxing on the beach or participate in water activities such as jet-skiing, diving, and snorkeling to see the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Culinary experiences
Sri Lankan cuisine is a harmonious blend of many cultures, including Indian, Chinese and Western. In the culinary world of Sri Lanka, each dish is a masterpiece, a symphony of diversity, where ingredients and spices are carefully selected from different cultures. Combine golf with culinary adventures by exploring local markets, taking cooking classes or dining at top-rated restaurants. Try authentic Sri Lankan dishes such as Hoppers, Kottu Roti and Curry with Sambol. Many golf clubs also have excellent on-site dining, making it easy to enjoy local and international cuisine during your visit.
A golf holiday in Sri Lanka is more than just a sporting experience; it is a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. By carefully planning your golf trip, you can create a golf holiday that is the perfect balance of leisure and adventure. Contact us today to start planning your next golf trip to Sri Lanka!
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