India, with its vast terrain, multiple cultures and fascinating religions, offers great vacation spots for golf enthusiasts of different skill levels and interests. There are over 200 golf courses close to major cities, mountain retreats, pristine forests and luxury resorts where there are heritage sites, nature escapes and spiritual retreats. Special golf vacation packages offer accommodations from economy to five-star hotels and resorts, and include historic tours, Ayurveda experiences and other specialized interests.
Heritage Vacations
A visit to the Taj Mahal, a 17th-century heritage site, is the highlight of a vacation in Agra accessible from any major city in India. Built as a gift of love to his departed wife by the fifth Mogul Emperor, Shah Jahan, the designer of this architectural wonder was Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. Construction materials include 28 kinds of semi-precious and precious stones such jasper, jade, sapphires, diamonds, turquoise and crystal from Punjab, Tibet, China and other parts of Asia.
A tour of the Agra Fort across the river from the Taj will take you to the architecture of 1565 AD and the Mogul history of war and imprisonment of emperors such as the Shah Jahan. Constructed by the great Emperor Akbar, this fort with its many spectacular buildings within its walls is highly renowned for its architectural design along the Jamuna River.
In addition to the many palaces and historical sites, there are a variety of cultural festivals in Agra with classical dances and musical recitals, exotic cuisine, hand-crafted mementos, and spectacular costumed parades. Stay at one of the hundreds of three- to five-star hotels in the area, and enjoy the Agra Golf Club with its tree-lined course and the Taj as a backdrop.
Mountain Retreats
Ananda Spa, Glenburn Tea Estate and Wildflower Hall are Himalayan mountain retreats developed inside palaces and 18th-century tea estates. They offer yoga, Ayurveda and meditation with breathtaking views of virgin forests, rivers and snow capped peaks. Swimming in luxurious pools, river rafting, mountain biking and horse riding are among some of the outdoor sports offered.
Golf enthusiasts enjoy the highest green courses in the world--Gulmarg Golf Club of Kashmir, built at 8,960 feet in 1904, the Naldehra Golf Club at 8,100 feet and the Senchal Golf Course with a view of Everest in the distance.
Sea, Sun and Sand
Karnataka in South India offers some of the best beach resorts such as Karwar, Ullal, Malpe and Maravanthe. There are pristine waterfalls, wild game sanctuaries, bird sanctuaries and famous botanical gardens. The historic and religious sites of Karnataka are breathtaking. These include the hill stations of the former British Empire such as Nandhi Hills, Kemmannagundi and Mercara, ancient engraved pillars, statues over 50 feet tall, and stone structures such as the Jaina Matha with its historic paintings.
Then there is the luxurious Eagleton Golf Village of Karnataka with its 18-hole par-72 PGA standard golf course with a prestigious country club offering designer villas and a five-star hotel, golf academy and practice turfs.
About The Author
A travel writer for over 10 years, Seeta Shah Roath features economic reviews, investment opportunities, history, culture and tourism in different countries. She has a Doctoral degree in education from the University of Phoenix and a passion for e-learning. Her articles appear in Washington Times Global and Examiner.com.
