Nikanti Golf Club

What is it?: Opened in 2014, and designed by Pirapon Namatra of GolfEast, Nikanti is located about an hour to the west of Bangkok. It has claims to uniqueness in that it offers three six-hole loops each with two par 3’s, two par 4’s and two par 5’s. It also provides an all-in green fee that includes refreshments before the game, a meal after plus snacks on the course. The club house is modern and magnificent, with sauna and jacuzzi facilities and a cigar and drinks lounge.

Why we like it: The course is visually stunning and each 6-hole loop has a character of its own. Wide fairways and forgiving approach areas help get you in the groove. Tighter fairways, strategic bunkers and water hazards then come into play for holes 7-12 before a change in elevation and demanding greens that need precision in approach play for the final six loop. Thailand is famous for its knowledgeable caddies but few courses can offer better trained personnel than Nikanti.

Signature hole: The par 3 second hole is simply gorgeous. The green is tucked in behind a lake that runs along the right of the hole and an undulating fairway leads to a forgiving approach area for those playing safe. Three bunkers frame the back of the fairway and green with a variety of different challenges to get out from.

Time Out tip: If you are from out of town, hire a knowledgeable driver to get you there and back. Then, sit back and enjoy the journey which takes you through some lesser roads and towns before your grand entrance at the club. To get full-value out of the green fee, allow at least an hour either side of your game to enjoy the world-class facilities which have already been paid for in advance