If you’re a golf enthusiast who loves discovering courses with character, Bhutan offers something extraordinary. Picture yourself teeing off with snow-dusted Himalayan peaks in the distance, the golden rooftops of a Dzong shimmering nearby, and fresh mountain air filling your lungs.
Golf in Bhutan offers a rare blend of sport, nature, and culture, making it a unique destination for golf enthusiasts seeking adventure and serenity. The country’s courses, set amidst the dramatic Himalayan scenery, promise an unforgettable golfing experience for both seasoned players and beginners.
History of Golf in Bhutan
Golf arrived in Bhutan in the early 1970s, when a high-ranking Indian military officer created a makeshift course in Thimphu with royal permission. The Royal Thimphu Golf Club (RTGC) soon became the country's first established club, nurturing Bhutan’s burgeoning golf scene. Today, Bhutan boasts a small but passionate group of golfers and hosts frequent tournaments that attract both locals and travelers.
The Top Golf Courses in Bhutan
Royal Thimphu Golf Club
Bhutan has one primary course open to travellers—the Royal Thimphu Golf Club. Located in the capital, it is a 9-hole course that can be played as 18 using alternate tees. What makes it exceptional is its backdrop: the historic Tashichho Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most important monasteries and administrative centres.
While modest in scale compared to international resorts, it is full of character and charm. The club has also hosted significant events, including the Bhutan Open Amateur Championship and newer showcases like the Gyaltsuen’s Cup, a tournament organised by the Bhutan Golf Federation.
Travel Tip
The main golf course in Bhutan that is open to travelers is the Royal Thimphu Golf Club. It is considered one of the most remote and highest golf courses in the world
Other Golf Courses in Bhutan
Bhutan has two lesser-known golf courses beyond the Royal Thimphu Golf Club: Drakpoi Golf Course, a scenic 9-hole layout in Dechencholing, Thimphu opened in 2018, offering undulating fairways, ponds and stunning Himalayan views; and the India House Golf Course, set within the India House Eco Park in Thimphu, also a 9-hole track best known for hosting the annual India House Golf Tournament since 1995. While Drakpoi suits golfers seeking a more challenging, purpose-built round, India House provides a more relaxed, community-style setting; both are tranquil, atmospheric places to enjoy the game in Bhutan’s fresh mountain air.
Unique Features and Challenges
Bhutanese golf is shaped by altitude and terrain. Courses like those in Thimphu are set at 7,700 feet (2,500 meters), influencing ball travel and player stamina. Fairways may be rustic, but the Himalayan backdrop makes every round memorable. Bhutan’s environmental ethos ensures that courses harmonize with nature, preserving local flora and fauna.
Tournaments and Golf Culture
Annual tournaments such as the Bhutan Open and Maruti Open showcase the country’s social spirit. The Royal Thimphu Golf Club, in particular, serves as a lively meeting point, where trophies—a yak head in years past, electronics now—celebrate victory in style. Golf in Bhutan is less about competition and more about camaraderie, respect, and shared experience.
Bhutan Golf Travel Experience
A golf trip to Bhutan goes beyond the fairways:
Practical Tips for Visiting Golfers
At roughly 2,350–2,500 metres above sea level, your ball will fly further—often by about 10% more carry. It’s wise to club down, especially on approaches. But altitude also means thinner, drier air, so you’ll want to:
Stay hydrated throughout the round.
Apply sunscreen generously.
Warm up thoroughly to keep your swing fluid.
Bring your own equipment, as rental options may be limited.
Expect variable course conditions; the natural setting compensates for less manicured greens.
Acclimatize gradually to the high altitude, ideally with extra days in the country.
Learn local customs, including ceremonial observances that might pause regular play.
Travel Tip
It is highly recommended for you to engage a tour operator as they can easily arrange your tee time, transport, and rentals.
Green Fees and Rentals
Visitor access is straightforward at the Royal Thimphu Golf Club, with green fees typically around USD 176, which conveniently includes club rentals, balls, tees, gloves and the services of a caddie. As rates and inclusions can change, it’s always wise to confirm the latest details directly with the club or arrange through your Bhutanese tour operator for a hassle-free experience.
Best Time to Play in Bhutan
The best seasons for golf in Bhutan mirror the country’s broader travel calendar:
Spring (March–May): Pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies.
Autumn (September–November): Crisp air, golden valleys, and ideal playing conditions.
Winter (December–February): Beautiful but cold—layer up if you play.
Summer (June–August): The monsoon brings rain and softer fairways, less ideal for golfing.
Why Golf in Bhutan?
Golf in Bhutan is still niche, but with Bhutan’s emphasis on mindful, low-impact tourism, the Royal Thimphu Golf Club remains an authentic, culturally rich venue. With the kingdom’s ongoing push for wellness-focused development, golf may continue to grow quietly but meaningfully as part of Bhutan’s sporting life.
For those seeking adventure, spiritual renewal, and memorable landscapes, golf in Bhutan is unmatched. Whether tackling high-altitude courses or connecting with warm local communities, golfers find sport and serenity in equal measure.
