Designed by the famous Japanese course architect Yoshikazu Kato, Hariphunchai Golf Club is an exquisite example of Kato´s impeccable work.
Located half an hour from Chiang Mai, the 9-hole layout, with a par of 36 is spectacular.
A championship standard course which will test even the very best golfers.
Although only a 9-hole course, Kato included two teeing options so that golfers can enjoy two distinctive rounds, with tee boxes placed in different positions that result in each hole playing uniquely from each teeing position.
It is comparable in facilities to the larger resort courses in the area with good short game and long game practice facilities, knowledgeable caddies and a superb contemporary clubhouse that caters for your every need.
The course itself is very challenging with water hazards and bunkers perfectly placed throughout the course to catch the wayward shot, or punish momentary lapses in concentration.
At 3516 yards, the course keeps pace with the modern game, requiring the golfer to possess both skill and power to tame this gem of a golf course.
Each hole has its own character, something that is vital for a great golf course, especially when there are only nine holes in play.
The maintenance of the course is also highly regarded, and it is always presented in tip-top condition, with smooth fast greens and beautifully manicured fairways and surrounds.
Water is present on all holes, in the form of lakes or streams.
Beginning with the first, a straightforward hole, which requires a good drive to avoid the pond on the right.
Hariphunchai Golf Club´s 2nd is a classic par 5 that offers the opportunity of getting home in two, but danger is lurking everywhere. Your drive must find the narrow landing area between the bunker protecting the left and the large lake that flanks the right of the hole.
The approach to the green for those wishing to take it must favour the left half of the green, and a long carry over the lake as it cuts in front of the green is enough of a deterrent for many golfers.
Hole 6 is a long par four, that demands both power and accuracy.
Water cuts across the fairway in front of the tees, but should not cause any problems, the drive itself is straightforward, with little trouble. But the approach is demanding, you must land the ball on the green, carrying the bunker which protects the entrance to the green.
Four is always a good score here as it is played into the prevailing wind.
The homeward hole is another cracker. At over 650 yards the hole is a true three shot par five. The large tree in the middle of the fairway requires accuracy and goof course management to avoid a big score. A well protected green makes the approach tricky.
Many golfers will avoid this course as it is only 9-holes, but those that do will be missing out on one of the best courses in the region.