The Royal Chiang Mai Golf Club & Resort, established in 1996 and situated approximately a 40-minute drive to the north of the city, stands as one of the original contemporary golf courses in Chiang Mai. Its design caters effectively to golfers of varying skill levels, from amateurs to professionals. One of the most captivating aspects of this golf course is its lush greenery and mature trees, which seamlessly blend with the surrounding natural landscapes and undulating countryside.

Nestled within a picturesque valley and embraced by encircling mountains, the Royal Chiang Mai Golf Club & Resort boasts a course characterized by its inherent natural beauty. The layout incorporates cascading waterfalls, meandering streams, and an abundance of meticulously designed landscaping. The course itself occupies the grounds where a former fruit orchard once thrived, resulting in a remarkable diversity of trees rarely found on other golf courses in Thailand. A profusion of flowering trees, emitting various fragrances and displaying a kaleidoscope of colors throughout the year, adorn each hole. The elevated altitude of Chiang Mai contributes to a cooler, less humid climate, along with crisp air and gentle breezes. The locale is also a haven for diverse wildlife, including numerous local bird species.

The design of the Royal Chiang Mai course is credited to Peter Thomson, a five-time British Open Champion. While the course spans a modest 6969 yards, omitting a set of back tees (black tees), it compensates for its relatively shorter distance through the strategic integration of elements reminiscent of a British links-style course. Undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and meticulously maintained areas encircling the greens are prevalent features throughout the course. This condensed layout places a premium on precise ball placement rather than sheer distance, offering a rewarding challenge for both novices and seasoned golf professionals alike.

Carefully positioned and prominently contoured greenside bunkers strategically factor into the gameplay on each hole. Furthermore, the raised nature of the greens creates a deceptive effect on the distances, often leading to the tendency of underestimating the required club selection. A network of lakes, streams, and cascading waterfalls contributes to the challenge on the majority of holes. Among the collection of par-3 holes, each with its distinctive features, the true gem of the course emerges as the extensive par-5 seventh hole. Securing a par here signifies a promising trajectory for the overall score.

The synergy among all 18 holes seamlessly weaves an exceptional challenge within the embrace of natural surroundings. Following the round, the clubhouse unveils a splendid panoramic view. While its glory days might be behind it, the clubhouse still boasts a comprehensive array of amenities, complete with a golfer's terrace. Additionally, an on-site golf resort exists, although its offerings are more tailored toward local patrons rather than international visitors.

The Royal Chiang Mai Golf Club & Resort stands as an ideal choice for golf enthusiasts seeking a leisurely day on the course amidst untouched natural beauty.