12 Days - Ultimate India Golf Tour

Welcome to India! On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Kolkata, one of India’s most historically significant gateway cities, flourished during the era of the British Raj, becoming a major centre of commerce, culture, and intellectual life. As the former capital of British India, the city developed into a hub for trade, administration, and education, with its grand colonial architecture and bustling port reflecting its strategic importance. Positioned along the Hooghly River, Kolkata became a vital link for East-bound trading vessels, connecting India to global markets and fostering an exchange of ideas, goods, and influences. Even today, the city retains its rich cultural legacy, where echoes of its past blend seamlessly with the energy of modern-day life.

This morning, make your way to the Royal Calcutta Golf Club, affectionately known as "The Royal". Founded in 1829, it is regarded as the oldest golf club outside the British Isles, second only to the Royal & Ancient at St Andrews in Scotland. With nearly two centuries of history, The Royal has long been considered one of Asia’s finest and most prestigious golf courses, offering a rare blend of heritage, tradition, and sporting excellence.

The 72-par course is both inviting and challenging, with its strategically placed bunkers, tree-lined fairways, and well-maintained greens providing a true test of skill for golfers of all levels. The course is also dotted with signature ponds and water hazards, adding to both its beauty and complexity. Over the years, The Royal has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the All India Championship, which it has shared as a venue since 1958.

This historic club has welcomed some of golf’s greatest players, both Indian and international, further cementing its reputation as a premier golfing destination. Beyond the course, the club’s traditional colonial-style clubhouse exudes old-world charm, offering a glimpse into Kolkata’s rich sporting legacy and social history. A round of golf at The Royal is not just about the game - it is an experience steeped in the traditions of the sport and the legacy of one of India’s most iconic clubs.

This morning, head to The Tollygunge Club, one of Kolkata’s most prestigious and historic country clubs, for a round of golf. Often referred to simply as "Tolly", the club is an oasis of greenery in the heart of the city, offering a serene escape from Kolkata’s urban energy. Established in 1895, it was originally founded as a meeting place and recreational retreat for British merchants and bankers, many of whom were involved in the lucrative indigo trade. Before being converted into a country club, the extensive grounds were part of a thriving indigo plantation, a reminder of the area’s colonial past.

Today, the Tollygunge Club is one of India’s premier sporting and social clubs, boasting facilities for tennis, equestrian sports, swimming, and golf. The 18-hole, Par 70 course spans 100 acres, offering a fairly forgiving layout for golfers of all levels. The wide, lush fairways and well-maintained greens make for an enjoyable game, but the numerous water hazards throughout the course present a strategic challenge. The club’s scenic landscape, filled with towering trees, colourful flowering plants, and a rich variety of birdlife, enhances the experience, making it one of the most picturesque golfing destinations in India.

Later in the afternoon, delve into Kolkata’s colonial past with a visit to the historic Dalhousie Square, now known as BBD Bagh, named in honour of three Indian freedom fighters. This area was once the epicentre of British administrative and commercial control in India, and its grand architecture reflects the power and ambition of the British Empire during the 18th and 19th centuries. The square is surrounded by imposing colonial-era buildings, many of which still serve as government and financial institutions today.

As you explore, you will see some of the most significant landmarks of British India, each with its own story of trade, politics, and empire-building. Hear about the people who commissioned these grand structures, the fortunes made and lost within their walls, and the historical and political events that shaped the city’s colonial legacy.

This morning, transfer to Kolkata airport for your domestic flight to Bangalore. On arrival, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel, where the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Bangalore, often referred to as India’s Garden City, is known for its abundant green spaces, tree-lined avenues, and temperate climate. Situated at an elevation of 1,000 metres above sea level, the city enjoys pleasant weather year-round, making it a comfortable and welcoming destination. Beyond its natural beauty, Bangalore blends colonial-era charm with modern innovation, reflected in its stately British-era buildings, vibrant bazaars, and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

While it retains a reputation for its gracious hospitality and laid-back charm, Bangalore is also one of India’s most forward-thinking cities, home to a thriving scientific and research community. It is at the heart of the country’s technology and software boom, earning it the title of "Silicon Valley of India". This unique mix of heritage, greenery, and cutting-edge innovation makes Bangalore a fascinating city to explore, where the past and future exist side by side.

This morning, head to the Karnataka Golf Association (KGA), home to one of India’s premier championship golf courses. Established in 1973, the course was designed by the legendary Peter Thomson, a five-time British Open winner, and built to meet international championship standards. Spread over 124 acres of lush green fairways, shimmering water bodies, and strategically placed bunkers, the Par 72 course is both challenging and enjoyable, catering to golfers of all skill levels.

One of the standout features of KGA is its classic golf course layout, where spectators can watch the 1st and 10th tee, as well as the 9th and 18th greens, all from the magnificent clubhouse. This traditional design element enhances both the playing and viewing experience, making it one of the few courses in India to offer such a vantage point. The course itself is known for its undulating fairways and massive greens, some of the largest in the country. While reaching the greens may not be overly difficult, the subtle double borrows and tricky pin placements demand precision and careful reading of the greens to secure a strong score.

The landscaping and layout of KGA make it a picturesque yet demanding course, where water hazards and cleverly placed mounds test a golfer’s strategy. With its world-class maintenance, tree-lined fairways, and challenging greens, KGA has earned a reputation as one of the finest golfing experiences in India, frequently hosting national and international tournaments. Whether you’re an experienced player or simply appreciating the elegance of the sport, this course embodies the best of Bangalore’s golfing tradition.

In the afternoon, set out on a half-day city tour of Bangalore, exploring some of its most iconic landmarks. The city’s rich history comes to life with a visit to Tipu Sultan’s Palace, a striking example of Indo-Islamic architecture, once the summer retreat of the 18th-century ruler. The tour also takes you through the Botanical Gardens, an oasis of exotic plants, towering trees, and landscaped pathways, offering a glimpse into Bangalore’s reputation as the Garden City. Finally, enjoy a drive past Vidhan Soudha, the imposing seat of Karnataka’s legislature, known for its grand neo-Dravidian architecture and striking presence in the heart of the city.

After a day that blends sport, history, and cultural exploration, return to your hotel to relax and reflect on Bangalore’s unique charm.

Today, travel by road to Ooty, a journey of approximately seven hours covering 300 kilometres through winding mountain roads and lush landscapes. As you ascend into the Nilgiri Hills, the air grows cooler, offering a refreshing change from the warmth of the plains below.

Ooty, officially known as Udhagamandalam, was founded in the early 19th century by the British Raj as a summer retreat, providing relief from the intense heat of South India. Nestled within the Nilgiri mountain range, often referred to as the Blue Mountains due to the distinctive bluish haze that cloaks their peaks, Ooty has retained much of its colonial charm. Remnants of the Raj era can still be seen in its gardens, old churches, and scenic lake, adding to the town’s nostalgic appeal.

Surrounded by rolling tea plantations, dense forests, and mist-covered valleys, Ooty remains a destination of natural beauty and tranquillity. Its temperate climate, serene landscapes, and relaxed pace of life make it an inviting retreat, where the cool mountain air and picturesque views provide a stark contrast to the bustling cities below.

Today, play a round at one of the most scenic golf courses in the world, the Ooty Golf Course, a destination that offers both breathtaking views and a rewarding challenge.

Perched at an altitude of over 7,000 feet above sea level, this historic course is set within the Nilgiri Hills, where the cool mountain air and rolling mist create a striking backdrop for the game. Established over a century ago, the course originally featured just nine holes, but has since expanded to a sprawling 18-hole layout covering 193 acres. Despite its idyllic setting, the course presents a challenging game, with its undulating fairways, uphill drives, and long greens demanding strategic play.

Surrounded by dense forests, the course is dotted with blind tees, tricky slopes, and natural obstacles, making it as technically demanding as it is beautiful. Some holes offer panoramic views of the Nilgiri mountains, while others are framed by the lush greenery that dominates the landscape. The combination of altitude, unpredictable winds, and natural terrain adds an extra layer of complexity, ensuring that no two rounds feel the same.

Ooty’s scenic beauty, cool mountain air, and laid-back charm make it the perfect place to spend an extra day, allowing time to fully appreciate its picturesque landscapes and colonial heritage. Nestled within the Nilgiri Hills, this former British hill station offers a refreshing contrast to the hustle of the plains, making it an ideal destination for both golfers and non-golfers alike.

Today, golfers have another opportunity to tee off at the stunning Ooty Golf Course, a course known for its challenging layout, lush fairways, and breathtaking mountain views. The altitude, tree-lined fairways, and natural undulations of the land ensure that no two rounds feel the same, making it a truly rewarding experience for those who love the game.

For non-golfers, Ooty offers an array of memorable experiences, with one of the highlights being a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as the Ooty Toy Train. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway, this charming steam-powered train journey winds through dense forests, misty valleys, and tea plantations, offering a spectacular view of the Nilgiris. The slow pace allows time to soak in the landscape, with the rhythmic chug of the locomotive adding to the nostalgia of the experience.

Beyond the toy train, Ooty is home to beautiful gardens, historic churches, and scenic lookouts, all of which reflect its colonial past and natural splendour. Visitors can explore the vibrant botanical gardens, stroll around the tranquil Ooty Lake, or take in panoramic views from Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris. The town’s tea plantations also offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s tea heritage, with opportunities to visit tea factories, sample fresh brews, and learn about traditional tea production.

This morning, depart for Coimbatore Airport, a three-hour drive through the scenic landscapes of Tamil Nadu’s countryside, where rolling hills and lush plantations give way to bustling towns. On arrival, board your flight to Delhi, the dynamic capital of India. Upon landing, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure.

Delhi is a city of contrasts and layers, where centuries of history coexist with modern urban energy. The city’s identity is shaped by its two distinct halves - Old Delhi and New Delhi - each offering a glimpse into India’s past and present.

Old Delhi, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, still retains much of its medieval character, with its narrow, winding lanes, ancient bazaars, and grand Mughal-era architecture. It evokes the atmosphere of historical trading hubs, reminiscent of the bustling souks of the Middle East, where spice merchants, artisans, and traders have conducted business for generations. The crumbling havelis, intricate mosques, and chaotic streets offer a stark contrast to the grandeur that once defined this royal capital.

In contrast, New Delhi, designed by British architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, reflects a completely different vision - one of wide boulevards, stately government buildings, manicured gardens, and grand monuments. With its towering skyscrapers, modern shopping districts, and expanding metro network, New Delhi exudes the energy of a contemporary metropolis, blending seamlessly with its colonial past.

What makes Delhi truly fascinating is the way these two worlds intersect and overlap, where a centuries-old Mughal mosque can stand beside a glass-fronted office building, and a heritage market may sit just minutes away from a high-end shopping precinct. This fusion of history and modernity gives the city its unique character - one that continues to evolve while holding onto the legacy of its past.

Today, enjoy a round of golf at the Delhi Golf Club, one of India’s most prestigious golfing destinations, located in the heart of New Delhi.

Originally a municipal course in the early 1930s, the Delhi Golf Club evolved into a corporate entity in 1950, growing in both stature and reputation over the decades. The club features the championship 18-hole Lodhi Course, a regular venue on the Asian PGA Tour, as well as the shorter 9-hole Peacock Course, which was introduced when the course was redesigned by five-time British Open winner Peter Thomson in 1976-77.

What sets the Delhi Golf Club apart is its extraordinary setting, where history and sport merge seamlessly. The course is dotted with ancient medieval monuments, remnants of Delhi’s Mughal and Sultanate eras, offering a unique backdrop that few other golf courses in the world can claim. Its tree-lined fairways, abundant greenery, and diverse birdlife, including peacocks that roam freely, create an almost sanctuary-like atmosphere amid the energy of the capital city. Some of the oldest trees in Delhi stand tall across the course, adding to its heritage charm and serene landscape.

In the afternoon, step back in time with a visit to Old Delhi, the historical heart of the city, where centuries of tradition and commerce still thrive in the bustling streets. Begin with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of the largest and most striking mosques in India, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Its grand red sandstone and marble structure, towering minarets, and vast courtyard stand as a testament to Mughal architectural brilliance.

Continue with a walking tour through the historic trading lanes of Old Delhi, where traditional businesses have been passed down through six or seven generations. Explore shops that have mastered age-old arts and crafts, from intricate jewellery making and handwoven fabrics to perfumery and calligraphy, gaining insight into the deep-rooted craftsmanship that has shaped Delhi’s commercial identity for centuries.

Today, enjoy a round of golf at the Qutab Golf Course, India’s first public golf course, offering a blend of accessibility and well-designed fairways in the heart of Delhi.

Developed by the Delhi Development Authority, the course was first introduced as a 9-hole layout in 2000, before being expanded to 18 holes in 2002. Designed to cater to golfers of all levels, Qutab Golf Course provides an excellent playing experience with its well-maintained greens, tree-lined fairways, and thoughtfully placed hazards that offer a good mix of challenge and playability. A key feature of the course is its 250-yard state-of-the-art driving range, an ideal facility for golfers looking to refine their long game.

What makes playing at Qutab Golf Course particularly special is its scenic location, with some holes offering glimpses of Delhi’s historic skyline, including the towering Qutab Minar in the distance. The course’s open layout and lush green surroundings provide a welcome contrast to the city's urban pace, making it a popular choice for both serious golfers and recreational players alike.

In the afternoon, set out to explore New Delhi, a city that beautifully blends its Mughal heritage with British colonial grandeur. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a magnificent 16th-century Mughal mausoleum, set within an ornate Persian-style charbagh (four-part) garden. This stunning structure, commissioned in 1565-66, was the first of its kind in India and served as the architectural inspiration for the Taj Mahal.

Continue to Qutab Minar, Delhi’s most famous landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1193, this soaring 73-metre-high minaret stands as a symbol of Delhi’s early Islamic architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions from the Quran. The surrounding Qutab complex also houses the Iron Pillar of Delhi, a fascinating relic from the 4th century that has remained rust-free for over 1,600 years.

The tour concludes with a drive through Lutyens’ Delhi, an area designed in the early 20th century by British architect Edwin Lutyens. Pass by some of India’s most iconic government buildings, including the India Gate, a war memorial honouring Indian soldiers, the Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s House), and Parliament House, all of which reflect the grandeur of British-era urban planning.

We hope you enjoyed golfing your way through India. This morning, you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport for your homeward flight, marking the conclusion of your journey.