Golf Holidays Sri Lanka – Best Golf Courses, Resorts & Tour Packages

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Sri Lanka is rapidly emerging as Asia’s one of the most refined and underrated golf holiday destinations. Combining world-class golf courses, colonial charm, luxury beach resorts, misty hill country landscapes, and warm hospitality, the island offers a unique golfing experience.

From championship-level courses designed by international architects to tranquil fairways surrounded by tea plantations and wildlife, Sri Lanka provides an elegant alternative to crowded golf destinations.

Ceylon Empire Travels has carefully curated golf tour packages so you can enjoy seamless planning, premium accommodations, expert guidance, and personalized itineraries tailored as per your need.

Why Choose Sri Lanka for a Golf Holiday?

Sri Lanka offers a rare combination of golfing excellence and diverse travel experiences within a compact geographical area. Unlike many destinations where golf is the sole attraction, Sri Lanka allows golfers to explore ancient cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, pristine beaches, wildlife safaris, and hill-country retreats, all within a few hours’ drive.

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Sri Lanka for a golf holiday is the quality of courses. Despite having a limited number of golf courses, each one is maintained to international standards and offers a distinct playing experience. The courses are uncrowded, beautifully landscaped, and playable year-round.

The tropical climate ensures pleasant playing conditions, while the island’s colonial history has deeply influenced its golfing culture. Many courses date back over a century, blending tradition with modern facilities. Golfers can expect professional helpers, excellent clubhouses, and warm, personalized service.

Another major advantage is affordability. Compared to Europe, the Middle East, or Southeast Asia’s premium golf hubs, Sri Lanka offers exceptional value for money. Luxury resorts, green fees, transportation, and guided experiences are all competitively priced without compromising on quality.

Sri Lanka is also better for non-golfing companions. While one partner plays, the other can enjoy spa treatments, cultural tours, wildlife safaris, or beach relaxation. This balance makes Sri Lanka perfect for couples, families, and group tours.

Best Golf Courses in Sri Lanka

Though Sri Lanka has only a handful of golf courses, each one stands out for its location, design, and playing experience. These courses are internationally recognized and consistently praised by visiting golfers.

Royal Colombo Golf Club

The Royal Colombo Golf Club is the heart of Sri Lanka’s golfing heritage and one of the oldest golf clubs in Asia. Established in 1879, this historic course reflects the island’s colonial past while continuing to meet modern international golfing standards. Located in the capital city of Colombo, the club offers a rare opportunity to play a classic course within a vibrant urban setting.

The course is an 18-hole, par-71 layout spread across gently rolling terrain. It is a traditional parkland course characterized by mature trees, narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that demand accuracy rather than sheer power. While the course may appear forgiving at first glance, its tight landing areas and fast greens challenge even experienced golfers.

One of the defining features of Royal Colombo Golf Club is its consistency. The greens are meticulously maintained year-round, and the fairways remain playable regardless of season. The flat layout makes it comfortable for walking, and professional helpers are available to assist players with course knowledge and local conditions.

The clubhouse is all about the colonial charm, and offers excellent dining facilities, locker rooms, and spaces for social interaction. Golfers often describe the experience here as elegant and unhurried, making it ideal for leisure golfers, business travelers, and first-time visitors to Sri Lanka.

Due to its central location, Royal Colombo Golf Club is often the starting point of golf holidays in Sri Lanka. It pairs perfectly with city sightseeing, shopping, and fine dining, allowing golfers to balance sport with urban exploration. Playing here is not just about golf but also about becoming part of a living legacy that has shaped the sport in Sri Lanka for over a century.

Victoria Golf & Country Resort (Kandy)

Victoria Golf & Country Resort is located near Kandy (Sri Lanka). It is widely known as the finest golf course in the country. Designed by renowned golf architect Donald Steel, this championship course is internationally acclaimed and consistently ranked among the top golf courses in Asia.

Set at an elevation of over 2,000 feet above sea level, the course enjoys a cooler climate, making it extremely comfortable for play throughout the year. The surrounding landscape of rolling hills, dense forest, and the Victoria Reservoir creates a breathtaking setting that enhances the overall golfing experience.

The 18-hole, par-73 course is known for its challenging layout. Elevation changes, undulating fairways, narrow approaches, and fast, contoured greens require strategic thinking and precise shot placement. Water hazards and natural rock formations are integrated seamlessly into the design, adding both beauty and difficulty.

What sets Victoria Golf & Country Resort apart is the balance between challenge and playability. While the course tests low-handicap players, it remains enjoyable for mid- and high-handicap golfers due to multiple tee options and generous landing areas on select holes. Wildlife sightings, including birds, monkeys, and deer, are common and add a unique natural element to the round.

The resort facilities include luxury villas, a modern clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and fine dining options. Many golfers choose to stay on-site, enjoying early morning tee times and relaxed evenings overlooking the hills. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent retreat for golfers seeking focus and tranquility.

Its proximity to Kandy also allows visitors to explore cultural attractions such as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, botanical gardens, and traditional dance performances. Victoria Golf & Country Resort is not just a golf destination, it is a complete hill-country experience combining sport, nature, and culture.

Shangri-La Hambantota Golf Resort

Shangri-La Hambantota Golf Resort is Sri Lanka’s first and only resort-based 18-hole championship golf course. Located along the southern coast, this modern course offers a striking contrast to the country’s older, inland courses by combining coastal landscapes with contemporary golf design.

Designed by architect Rodney Wright, the par-70 course stretches across expansive grounds adjacent to the Indian Ocean. Wide fairways, open sightlines, water hazards, and strategically placed bunkers define the layout. Coastal winds play a significant role, requiring golfers to adjust their strategy and club selection throughout the round.

The course is suitable for golfers of all levels. Beginners appreciate the forgiving fairways, while experienced players enjoy the challenge posed by wind conditions and well-protected greens. The course is neatly maintained, with high-quality turf and smooth putting surfaces.

What truly elevates the experience is the integration with the Shangri-La Hambantota Resort. Golfers have access to luxury accommodation, multiple international dining options, a world-class spa, swimming pools, and a pristine private beach. After a morning round, players can unwind with spa treatments or relax by the ocean.

The resort’s location also offers easy access to wildlife attractions such as Yala and Bundala National Parks, making it perfect for golfers who want to combine their holiday with safaris and nature experiences.

Sri Lanka Golf Holiday Packages

Golf holidays in Sri Lanka are best experienced through well-planned itineraries that balance play, travel, and leisure. Ceylon Empire Travels specializes in custom golf tour packages designed to maximize comfort and enjoyment.

7-Day Golf Holiday Sri Lanka – Colombo – Kandy – Hambantota

This 7-day golf holiday in Sri Lanka is thoughtfully designed for golfers who want to experience the country’s finest courses while enjoying its cultural richness and scenic diversity. Covering Colombo, Kandy, and Hambantota, this itinerary blends championship golf, luxury accommodation, and relaxed sightseeing into one seamless journey.

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you are welcomed by the team from Ceylon Empire Travels and transferred to your hotel in Colombo. The rest of the day is free to relax after your journey or enjoy a short walk along the city’s coastal promenade.

Day 2: Royal Colombo Golf Club
Your first round is played at the historic Royal Colombo Golf Club, one of the oldest golf clubs in Asia. This classic 18-hole parkland course offers narrow fairways, mature trees, and well-protected greens, making it both enjoyable and challenging. After golf, you may explore Colombo’s colonial landmarks, shopping areas, or fine dining spots.

Day 3: Colombo to Kandy
Travel inland to the cultural capital of Kandy, passing scenic countryside landscapes. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the cooler hill-country climate. Optional evening activities include a traditional cultural dance show or a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Day 4: Victoria Golf & Country Resort
Today’s highlight is a round at Victoria Golf & Country Resort, widely regarded as Sri Lanka’s best golf course. Designed by Donald Steel, this championship course features rolling fairways, elevation changes, and stunning views of the surrounding hills and reservoir. The peaceful setting and cooler weather make this an unforgettable golfing experience.

Day 5: Kandy to Hambantota
After breakfast, travel south to Hambantota on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Check in to the luxurious Shangri-La Hambantota Resort, known for its expansive grounds, beachfront setting, and world-class facilities.

Day 6: Shangri-La Hambantota Golf Resort
You get to enjoy a morning round at Sri Lanka’s only resort-based championship golf course. The course offers wide fairways, water hazards, and coastal winds that add excitement to the game. The afternoon is free for beach relaxation, spa treatments, or enjoying the resort’s leisure facilities.

Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, you need to leave for the airport for departure. You may choose to extend your stay with a beach holiday or wildlife safari.

This 7-day golf holiday is ideal for golfers seeking variety, comfort, and exceptional value. With expert planning, premium accommodations, and personalized service, Ceylon Empire Travels ensures a smooth and memorable golf experience across Sri Lanka’s top destinations.

Best Time for Golf Holidays in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, but certain months offer more favorable golfing conditions depending on the region.

The best overall time for golf holidays is from December to April, when weather conditions are dry and pleasant across most parts of the island.

For hill-country golf in Kandy, January to March provides cooler temperatures and clear skies. Coastal golf in Hambantota is best enjoyed from November to April.

Monsoon seasons vary by region, allowing golfers to plan strategically and enjoy playable conditions almost any time of year.

Cost of Golf Holidays in Sri Lanka

Golf holidays in Sri Lanka are considered highly cost-effective compared to international golf destinations.

A mid-range 7-day golf holiday package typically includes:

• Luxury accommodation
• Green fees
• Airport transfers
• Private transportation
• Professional assistance

Prices generally range from USD 1,800 to USD 3,500 per person, depending on accommodation level, number of rounds, and customization.

Luxury packages with premium resorts, spa treatments, and private guides may cost more but still offer excellent value.

Why Choose Ceylon Empire Travels

Ceylon Empire Travels is a trusted Sri Lanka-based destination management company specializing in customized travel experiences.

Their golf holiday services include:

• Personalized golf itineraries
• Tee time reservations
• Luxury hotel and resort bookings
• Private chauffeur-driven transport
• Dedicated local support
• Flexible customization

With deep local knowledge and strong partnerships with Sri Lanka’s top golf courses and resorts, Ceylon Empire Travels ensures seamless planning and exceptional service from arrival to departure.

Conclusion

This article on Golf Holidays Sri Lanka – Best Golf Courses, Resorts & Tour Packages will help you plan your Sri Lankan holidays really well. From playing golf to exploring nearby sites, you can rely on Ceylon Empire Travels for an amazing experience.

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