Set Amidst The Mountains

Khao Yai, which translates to “Big Mountains”, is the name given to one of Thailand’s most tranquil national parks, known especially for its lush tropical rainforest, exotic meandering nature trails and majestic waterfalls. The park is also home to almost 2,500 plant species, 67 different kinds of mammal and over 300 species of bird. The abundant wildlife includes many endangered mammals such as elephants, gibbons, tigers, leopards and Malaysian sun bears. You are most likely to spot elephants during the winter months. Of course, going in winter has other benefits too, since this area enjoys considerably cooler weather year round than the bustling capital thanks largely to hilly elevation of 1351 metres. Obviously the coolest weather is to be had during Thailand’s winter period between November and February. Unlike the dreary winters in northern climates, Khao Yai’s winter heralds the blooming of a huge number of flowering trees, wild Orchids and other rare plants.

If you think the Khao Yai would be a great area for a golf course, well, so did the developers of the Kirimaya Golf Resort and Spa. The Jack Nicklaus designed 18 hole par 72 course hugs the perimeter of the park and during the design phase, the developers had to adhere to strict regulations paying close attention not to encroach the national park. The result is a golf course so close to nature and the mountains that you get the feeling of being immersed in it.

Length-wise the course ranges from a manageable 4,875 metres off the reds, to a daunting 7,115 metres from the back. Don’t think for a moment that just because this is a resort course that it’s going to be an easy game. Many tall grass hazards (treated as lateral water hazards) are bound to frustrate those having a “bad day”. Also be sure to pack enough balls, since when your swing starts to sway, your ball will be terrorising the local wildlife. Chances are, you won't be going “hunting” for it, elephants and monkeys can get pretty testy when struck by errant balls.

The par 5 3rd is one of the resort's more interesting challenges. With split fairways, the approach into the green will depend very much on where you have chosen to (or inadvertently) land your drive. Do note the 'smallish' green is protected by a lateral water hazard and bunkers, it is therefore of no surprise this combination makes this hole the most challenging of the course

Arguably one of the most picturesque holes is the 9th, located within the deepest part of the golf course and features mountain views as its backdrop. It is not a particularly difficult hole to return with a par being fairly straight forward, just don't let the beauty distract you.

(For the complete article please refer to your May 2008 issue of Golf Asia magazine)