Golf in Sri Lanka has a rich heritage dating back to the British colonial era, making it one of the oldest golfing destinations in Asia. The country offers a variety of challenging golf courses set against stunning landscapes, from misty highland greens to coastal fairways. The Royal Colombo Golf Club, established in 1879, is the second-oldest Royal Golf Club outside the UK, providing a scenic golfing experience in the heart of the commercial capital. In the central highlands, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, founded in 1889, offers a classic British-style course with narrow fairways and a cool climate, reminiscent of Scotland.
Meanwhile, the Victoria Golf & Country Resort in Digana, near Kandy, ranks among the top golf courses in Asia, boasting breathtaking views of the Victoria Reservoir and a championship-standard layout. The southern coast features the luxurious Shangri-La Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, the country’s first and only resort-based golf course, set amidst coconut plantations and sand dunes. For those seeking a unique coastal golfing experience, the Eagle’s Golf Links in Trincomalee provides an 18-hole course with panoramic ocean views.
Sri Lanka is rapidly gaining recognition as a premier golf tourism destination, attracting international players with its combination of historic courses, year-round tropical weather, and luxury golf resorts. Golfers can enjoy a diverse experience, seamlessly blending the sport with cultural excursions, wildlife safaris, and beachside relaxation. Several prestigious tournaments, such as the Sri Lanka Open, the Royal Colombo Golf Championship, and the Paradise Helanka Golf Classic, further highlight the country’s growing prominence in the sport. With increasing investment in golf infrastructure and active promotion by the Sri Lanka Golf Union, the future of golf in Sri Lanka looks promising, making it an ideal destination for both professional players and leisure golfers.
It will be an unique opportunity to play at one of the oldest golf clubs in the world, standing in the City of Colombo and is officially allowed to use the word “Royal”.
The Nuwara Eliya Golf Club is one of the oldest Golf Clubs in Sri Lanka. Established in the late 19th century, this scenic 18-hole Golf course is located in the hill station of Nuwara Eliya.
This exquisite resort property designed by Donald. Steel, bordering the Victoria reservoir is ranked among the top 100 “Most Beautiful Courses in the World”.
Overlooking the pristine southern coast of Sri Lanka, Shangri-La Hambantota is located along the ancient Spice Route in a city steeped in rich history. The resort is home to an 18-hole golf course, an expansive spa and a village that celebrates local Artisans.