Chiang Rai Golf Guide: Best Courses, Resorts & Travel Tips

Cool mountain air, tea-covered hills, and quiet fairways make Chiang Rai one of Thailand’s most peaceful golf destinations. For travelers who value scenery, culture, and calm over crowds, this northern gem delivers golf with soul.

Why Golf in Chiang Rai?

Nestled in Thailand’s northernmost province, Chiang Rai combines cooler weather, forested landscapes, and authentic local culture. The region’s slower pace and friendly atmosphere make it ideal for golfers seeking relaxation rather than resort bustle.

Chiang Rai is easily reached by direct flights from Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Once there, courses are within 20–40 minutes of town — surrounded by misty mountains, tea plantations, and ancient temples. Between rounds, travelers can explore the famed White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Golden Triangle viewpoints, and the Mekong River valley.

Learn more planning insights in our Golf Tips section.

Best Golf Courses in Chiang Rai

Santiburi Chiang Rai Country Club

Northern Thailand’s signature course, Santiburi Chiang Rai offers rolling terrain, tree-lined fairways, and perfectly maintained greens. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., it’s both scenic and strategic — ideal for serious golfers and leisure players alike.

Happy City Golf & Resort

An expansive 29-hole complex with creative layouts and fun design variety. Known for its friendly staff, bright landscaping, and panoramic countryside views.

Waterford Valley Golf Club

Set amid cool mountain air about 40 minutes from town, this course features natural elevation changes and stunning views of distant peaks. A quiet, local favorite that rewards accuracy and patience.

(Other smaller local courses cater to beginners and casual travelers, but these three form Chiang Rai’s premier golf circuit.)

Explore all listings in our Chiang Rai Golf Courses directory.

Where to Stay

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort — Riverside luxury with mountain views, just minutes from Santiburi.
The Riverie by Katathani — Elegant, family-friendly resort overlooking the Kok River.
Mora Boutique Hotel — Stylish modern stay near city temples and cafés.
The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort — Peaceful retreat close to town and the river.
A-Star Phulare Valley Resort — Perfect base for golfers playing Waterford Valley.

Most properties offer golf-and-stay packages with transfers and course reservations.

When to Visit

The best months for golf in Chiang Rai are November to February, when cool, dry air makes every round comfortable. Temperatures average 20 °C – 28 °C with crisp mornings and light breezes.

March through May is warmer but still pleasant in early tee times, while the green season (June–October) provides lush scenery and discounted rates.

💡 Pro Tip: Early-morning rounds at Santiburi reveal mountain mists drifting across the fairways — one of Thailand’s most photogenic tee-off moments.

Travel Tips & Local Highlights

Culture: Visit Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple), and Wat Huay Pla Kang’s giant Buddha.
Nature: Take a tea-plantation tour in Mae Salong or visit the Golden Triangle.
Cuisine: Enjoy northern dishes like khao soi and nam ngiao paired with locally grown tea.
Shopping: Stop by local night bazaars for handmade crafts and hill-tribe silver.

Find more advice in our Golf Tips section.

Plan Your Trip

Chiang Rai’s blend of scenic tranquility and cultural richness makes it Thailand’s best-kept golf secret. With world-class courses, boutique resorts, and mountain serenity, it’s the perfect destination for golfers who value calm and connection.

Start planning your Chiang Rai golf retreat:

🗣️ Local Voices

“Chiang Rai golf feels spiritual — cool air, mountain silence, and fairways that roll like the hills themselves.” — Local Golf Professional

❓ FAQ

How many golf courses are in Chiang Rai?
Three main championship-quality courses plus smaller local layouts for casual play.

When is the best season for golf in Chiang Rai?
November – February for the coolest weather and clearest skies.

Are golf packages available?
Yes, most resorts and operators provide stay-and-play packages with round-trip transfers.