Naldehra Golf Course

Website: http://www.naldehragolfclub.com

Interesting fact: It was established in 1905 by the then Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, who was so mesmerised by the beauty of Naldehra that he named his third daughter Alexandra Naldehra.

I intend to write short notes about the courses I have played at and it’s fitting that I start with my home golf course. Located at Naldehra, nearly 22 kms away from Shimla and 16 Kms from Kufri; this is one of the oldest and most scenic golf courses in India. Draped in deodar trees at a height of 2200 m, the course offers spectacular views of the Himalyas. It’s a par 66, 18 hole Golf Course, designed over a long sloping glade and is regarded as one of the most challenging in the Country. Playing at Naldehra is indeed a rare experience; one that all golfers must try at least once.

It’s a small yet very challenging course, thanks to the tall trees and the terrain. You will be hitting uphill on one hole and the very next hole you will have to hit even higher to clear a line of tall trees. Without a caddie, you wouldn’t even know where to hit on some of the holes. It gets even more difficult because of thick shrubs and out-of-bound (they are literally out-of-bound) areas in the form of forest and (not too) deep gorge.

Do carry a good number of balls and a lot of stamina to complete the round which shouldn’t take more than 3 hours as the course isn’t crowded more often than not. Whenever you go, make it a point to stay in Naldehra for atleast one night. You can stay in the cottages (3 cottages are dedicated to club members) owned by Himachal Tourism hptdc.in or nearby resorts. Golf course is located within the premises of HPTDC property and hence staying in these cottages is ideal for golfers. Chalets www.chaletsnaldehra.com is an excellent resort situated right next to the course and also owns a revolving restaurant with a beautiful view of the valley.

Favourite hole: Hole no. 12; you have to hit a very high tee shot on this par4 (earlier a par 5) due to a line of tall trees right in front of the tee-box. The shot has to be high and long enough to carry the trees and a gorge. Your second shot then will be slightly uphill leading to a tricky green.

Time to visit: Anytime between April-Oct is a good time to visit Shimla and nearby areas; best time to visit Naldehra Golf course in my opinion is Sep-Oct.  Do remember to call the course at least 30 mins before you intend to play so that they can arrange for a caddie and a cart if possible.