The town of Udhagamandalam – or Ooty for short – was established by the British in the early 19th century as a hill station, allowing government officials to retreat there during the summer when the temperatures are a little cooler at 7,000 feet above sea level.
The town of Udhagamandalam – or Ooty for short – was established by the British in the early 19th century as a hill station, allowing government officials to retreat there during the summer when the temperatures are a little cooler at 7,000 feet above sea level.
The town of Udhagamandalam – or Ooty for short – was established by the British in the early 19th century as a hill station, allowing government officials to retreat there during the summer when the temperatures are a little cooler at 7,000 feet above sea level.
It serves as an Indian Army officer training centre and, as many of the country’s golfers are military or former servicemen, the course at Ooty is one that a large number of folk have fond memories of. It’s reached by a switchback road or via the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, the only rack railway operating in India.
“The course is every bit as hilly as one might expect from the drive up,” wrote Tom Doak in Volume V of his Confidential Guide to Golf Courses book. “From the very first tee, you know you’re in for a roller-coaster ride: the tee shot on the long par-5 opener skirts past the clubhouse just across the road, before the fairway plunges downhill so steeply as to remind me of the 10th at Augusta.”
The author continues: “Conditions are rough and ready: cows and buffalo are the sole keepers of the fairways, which are marked out by blues stones for definition…any Scotsman would vouch for Ooty as a true outpost for the royal and ancient game. It is perhaps a better model for golf in India than everything that has come since.”
In the book Golf in India: The Ultimate Golfing Guide by Phil Ryan and Paul Reeves (2nd edition published 2011) the authors have this to say about Ooty Golf Course:
“At an altitude of 2,286m golfers get extra distance on a well hit ball but the downside is that walking the sometimes steep layout you can get tired quickly. Designed in 1896 by Col. Ross Thompson the 18-hole golf course is a par 72 of 6235 yards and is set in the hills just outside of Ootacamund, one of the original British Raj hill stations.
The golf course is surrounded by forest and at dawn or dusk you may glimpse the forest inhabitants enjoying the ambience of the course. The golf course is… well quirky to say the least with many of the holes having blind shots into the green, a good caddy is a must and you must place you faith in him completely.”
The latest ranking of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World serves as the ultimate global golf bucket list. Most members of our World Top 100 Panel are seasoned golfers, each playing 20-30 of these courses annually while travelling extensively over decades to form their opinions on others. We recognise that opinions vary—even among our panel members. Rankings are subjective, and there are undoubtedly 50 or more courses in the UK and USA alone that could easily fit onto this list. Links Golf Pilgrimages The rankings
California, United States
New Jersey, United States
Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
New York, United States
New York, United States
Top 100 Golf Courses updates its South Asia rankings Last month, we published the first of three Asian chart releases for China, Japan and South Korea, under the banner of East Asia. This article covers the South Asian countries of India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka and our final narrative for the continent later this month will report on half a dozen of the most significant golfing nations in Southeast Asia. But first, we take a closer look at the massive geographic region that’s also known as the Indian subcontinent, where around 1.8 billion people live within an area extending to almost two million square miles, surrounded on its southern sides by the mighty Indian Ocean. The British Army brought the game to these parts in the days of the British Empire and that legacy lives on to the present day. India The Royal & Ancient game was formally established at Calcutta Golf Club in 1829, making it one of the oldest golf societies in the world. The Royal charter was then awarded after a visit by King George V and Queen Mary in 1911, the year after the club moved to its present location at Tollygunge, so golfing tradition in this diverse country goes back a very long way. We're very grateful for input from our correspondent in India, Vijit Nandrajog, who has played every course on our Indian contender list and many more besides. Half the courses in our new Top 20 remain in the same chart position as last time, including those in the top three places, which means the Gary Player course at DLF Golf & Country Club outside Delhi retains its status as India’s #1 layout. Reconfigured by Gary Player’s design company in 2015, the new 18-hole course has hosted the last three editions of the Indian Open, which is a co-sanctioned event on both the Asian Tour and the European Tour. DLF Golf & Country Club - Player course The first of two new entries in our Indian chart arrives in the top half of the table at No. 9 and it’s the mountain course at Ootacamund Gymkhana Club in the state of Tamil Nadu, set at an altitude of 7,200 feet above sea level. Ooty, as it’s commonly called, serves as an officer training centre for the Indian Army so many of the nation’s golfers are familiar with its layout and quite a few ex-service personnel return here every year with very fond memories of previous playing experiences. Ootacamund Gymkhana Club Vijit commented as follows: "Ooty is one of my favourite courses in India, purely from a standpoint of enjoyment, fun and experience. The course is unique in so many ways; I don’t think any other course (except maybe Kodaikanal) can provide Indians with a taste of what true, raw, pure golf is. Also, the land is beautiful, ground is rough and rugged and it’s the only place in India where you will see gorse on the course – and a tiger sighting recently!" The biggest upward move in our rankings is a 6-place climb made by the course at Hyderabad Golf Association (up to #12), which David Hemstock and Simon Gidman have both worked on for the last few years. David gave us a status report on the HGA remodelling project at the end of 2018 and we understand things have progressed well since then. Hyderabad Golf Association Rank/ To view the complete detailed list of the Top 20 Golf Courses of India click the link. Nepal According to the Nepal Golf Association, there are six courses currently in operation around the country and we feature two of them. Himalayan Golf Course is our new Nepalese #1, built largely by hand over a five-year period in the 1990s by a small team of dedicated local people working with Major Ram Garung, a former officer with the Brigade of Gurkahs in the British Army. Himalayan Golf Course Architect Ron Fream discovered this place a while back but Tom Doak has since taken on the mantle of its most influential proponent, selecting it as one of eighteen Gourmet Choice layouts in Volume 5 of The Confidential Guide to Golf Courses . As he says in the book, “this is not just a golf course, but a trek in the mountains, with a sherpa-like caddie alongside… you have to see this course sometime in your life.” To view the two entries in our Nepal listings click the link. Pakistan There’s very little movement in our Top 5 for Pakistan so the Blue and Red nines at Karachi Golf Club hold onto the #1 slot at the top of the standings. The club dates back to 1888 but it moved to its present site in the early 1950s, leasing a neglected 9-hole course from the Ministry of Defence. Peter Harradine was called in to substantially develop the layout in the early 1990s and he fashioned three 9-hole circuits, with the Blue and Red loops forming the championship 18-hole course. Karachi Golf Club Work continues on the new Signature course from Faldo Design outside the city of Multan in southern Punjab. Commissioned by the local Defence Housing Authority, the development lies on a naturally sandy site that will feature “a linksy shaping theme,” according to lead architect Andy Haggar. Expect to see indigenous mud-clad buildings and fruit tree plantations incorporated into the design “to create a real sense of place” when the layout is unveiled next year. To view the complete detailed list of the Top 5 Golf Courses of Pakistan click the link. Sri Lanka Our rankings for Sri Lanka remain much as they were, except for the addition of Rodney Wright’s new resort course at Hambantota, which is a new entry at #4. Because the other three courses retain the same position in the new chart, Victoria Golf & Country Resort in Rajawella holds on to the #1 spot. Victoria Golf & Country Resort Developed in the late 1990s, the course is set within a former coconut plantation in the spectacular Kandyan mountain range, next to the Victoria reservoir, with tree-lined fairways threading their way across a densely wooded landscape. It’s a tough test of golf, far removed from what you might normally expect to play at a golf resort, and it’s also one that you’ll never forget in a hurry either. To view the four entries in our Sri Lanka listings click the link. Jim McCann Editor Top 100 Golf Courses
Indulge in Local Cuisine in Gurugram: A Flavourful Journey Gurugram, a bustling city in the northern Indian state of Haryana, is not just a corporate hub but also a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. Known for its rapid urbanization and a skyline dotted with skyscrapers, Gurugram has a vibrant food scene that offers a delightful blend of traditional North Indian flavours, street food delights, and international cuisines. For food enthusiasts exploring this dynamic city, here's a guide to savouring the local cuisine that Gurugram has to offer. 1. North Indian Delicacies At the heart of Gurugram's culinary landscape is the rich and aromatic North Indian cuisine. Butter Chicken, with its creamy tomato-based gravy and tender chicken pieces, is a must-try dish. Paired with Naan or Roti, it makes for a comforting meal. Dal Makhani, a slow-cooked lentil delicacy enriched with butter and cream, is another staple that reflects the culinary heritage of the region. 2. Street Food Sensations Gurugram's street food is a testament to the city's love for flavoursome and quick eats. Chaat, a broad category of savoury snacks, is incredibly popular. From Pani Puri to Aloo Tikki, these bite-sized delights are perfect for a flavourful snack. Kathi Rolls, filled with juicy kebabs and vegetables, offer a fulfilling meal on the go. 3. Regional Sweets No meal in Gurugram is complete without indulging in some traditional sweets. Gulab Jamun, deep-fried dumplings soaked in sugary syrup, and Jalebi, crispy, swirly sweets dipped in syrup, are local favourites. These desserts are not just a treat for the taste buds but also embody the sweetness of Indian hospitality. 4. International Flavors Reflecting its cosmopolitan populace, Gurugram boasts a wide array of international dining options. From authentic Italian pizzas and pastas to Japanese sushi and sashimi, the city caters to global palates. Korean BBQ restaurants and Mexican taco stands are also part of Gurugram's diverse culinary scene, offering a taste of global cuisine. 5. Regional Thalis To experience the essence of Haryanvi cuisine, one must try a Regional Thali. These platters offer a little bit of everything, including Roti, Rice, Dal, a variety of vegetable curries, Raita (yogurt-based side dish), and a sweet dessert. It's a wholesome and balanced meal that showcases the simplicity and richness of the local cuisine. 6. Modern Indian Fusion Gurugram is home to several eateries and restaurants that experiment with traditional Indian dishes by giving them a contemporary twist. Modern Indian Fusion cuisine in Gurugram might include dishes like Deconstructed Samosa, Paneer Tikka Tacos, or Masala Arancini, blending the best of Indian flavours with international culinary techniques. 7. Gourmet Cafés and Bakeries For those with a penchant for baked goods and a cozy café ambiance, Gurugram offers an impressive selection of gourmet cafés and bakeries. From freshly baked croissants and pastries to artisanal bread and cakes, these spots are perfect for a leisurely breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. Gurugram's food scene is as dynamic and diverse as its inhabitants. Whether you're craving traditional flavours or adventurous enough to try modern culinary fusions, the city has something to satisfy every palate. So, the next time you find yourself in Gurugram, take a gastronomic journey through its streets and eateries, and indulge in the rich tapestry of tastes that this city has to offer. Find out more about travel to Golf Courses in Northern India Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive World Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
Exploring the Best of Gurugram: A Guide to Activities Around the DLF Golf Course Nestled in the bustling city of Gurugram, Haryana, the DLF Golf Course stands as a beacon of luxury and leisure, offering more than just a world-class golfing experience. Surrounding this esteemed venue are myriad activities and attractions that promise a memorable time for golfers and non-golfers alike. Whether you're here to hit the links or just explore, Gurugram has something for everyone. 1. Experience Ultimate Relaxation at a Spa After a day on the greens, what could be better than unwinding at one of the many luxury spas in proximity to the DLF Golf Course? These sanctuaries of relaxation offer a range of treatments from traditional Ayurvedic therapies to modern wellness treatments, ensuring that you leave feeling rejuvenated. 2. Indulge in Fine Dining Gurugram is a melting pot of cuisines, and the area around the DLF Golf Course is no exception. From high-end restaurants serving global cuisines to local eateries offering delicious Indian fare, there's no shortage of dining options. Whether you're in the mood for Italian, Japanese, or traditional North Indian dishes, you're sure to find something to satisfy your palate. 3. Explore the Cyber Hub A short distance from the DLF Golf Course, Cyber Hub is the go-to place for entertainment and dining. This vibrant complex is home to some of the best cafes, restaurants, and bars in the city. Cyber Hub also hosts live music and performances, making it the perfect place to spend an evening. 4. Shop at High-End Malls Gurugram is known for its shopping, and the malls near the DLF Golf Course are a testament to this. Visit the Ambience Mall, one of the largest malls in India, offering everything from luxury brands to local boutiques. It's a shopper's paradise, complete with a multiplex, a bowling alley, and numerous dining options. 5. Take a Leisurely Stroll in Leisure Valley Park For those who prefer a quiet day amidst nature, Leisure Valley Park is an ideal spot. Located a short drive from the DLF Golf Course, this beautifully landscaped park offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It's perfect for picnics, jogs, or simply a leisurely stroll. 6. Embark on a Cultural Journey at the Kingdom of Dreams Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indian culture at the Kingdom of Dreams, just minutes away from the DLF Golf Course. This entertainment complex blends live theatre, food, and shopping in an extravagant setting, showcasing India's art, cuisine, and heritage. 7. Enjoy a Night Out at Sector 29 Sector 29 is a bustling nightlife hub close to the DLF Golf Course. It's filled with pubs, breweries, and live music venues, offering a lively atmosphere for those looking to experience Gurugram's vibrant night scene. Conclusion The area around the DLF Golf Course in Gurugram is a treasure trove of experiences, from indulgent relaxation and dining to shopping, culture, and nightlife. Whether you're here for the golf or just to explore, you'll find no shortage of activities to fill your days and nights with unforgettable memories. Find out more about travel to Golf Courses in Northern India Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive World Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
