Nikanti Golf Club

Nikanti sits in the fresh air among former rice paddies. However, the Bangkok golf course is almost the opposite of what one usually finds around the city.  It measures a short 6,850 yards from the black tees for a start. Then there is the routing. Rather than having a traditional front and back nine, Nikanti is made up of three loops of six, starting and ending at the main clubhouse. Finally, each circuit comprises two par-3s, two par-4s, and two par-5s. Having an equal number of par-3, par-4, and par-5 holes is somewhat controversial, but why not? Par-72 is still on offer, and it gives golfers the chance to play a wide variety of holes throughout the round. 

Also, more than the standard number of par-3 and par-5 holes gives golfers many more scoring opportunities. However, despite the "extra" scoring holes, Nikanti is a course with a significant challenge, even for professional golfers. The fairways, while broad, feature plenty of mounding and elevation changes, and flat lies are the exception rather than the rule at Nikanti. Meanwhile, many greens are strongly undulated, run fast (especially downhill), and are guarded by bunker complexes. Water comes into play on many holes, especially on the par-5s.

Bangkok golf courses often get criticized for their lack of elevation change, but that's not the case at Nikanti. Club selection is also impacted by the prevailing winds that sweep don through many valleys that dot the course. Nikanti rewards accurate shots over distance more than most other Bangkok golf courses. Still, many of the holes are reachable in under-par.

Nikanti features an impressive modern clubhouse with many amenities only found at private members' clubs. Full-length lockers, gourmet food and beverages, an observation deck, and a lounge with satellite TV all make you forget that you are at a daily fee public golf course. Service is also exemplary, including 15-minute tee times to ensure a fast pace of play, all-inclusive and non-cash policies, and complimentary local beverages and two meals. All in, Nikanti is one of Thailand's best golf courses and a unique Asian golf experience.