Ubolratana Dam Golf Course,Location: Moo 1 Ubol Ratana Dam Khon Kaen, 22 40250, Thailand 66 4337 2228,Holes: 18 Par: 72 Length: 6714 yd Slope: N/A Rating: N/A

Ubolratana Dam Golf Course is the most mature of the local courses which, in the author’s opinion, provides a good test of golf. The fairways are generous, tree lined, with lush grass; the proximity of the dam means there is no shortage of water for of the holes to a greater or lesser extent. Ubolratana Dam Golf Course is a good course that requires accuracy of shot and punishes those which are not. The first cut of rough is reasonable but stray further off line and you are in trouble; trees, scrub and long grass all punish the wayward shot. The greens are of average size, good quality and consistent, but some with severe slopes, get in the wrong position and it may be difficult to keep the ball on the green. Bunkers are of a decent standard. Water hazards come into play on 11 and run by EGAT (Electric Generating Authority of Thailand), who have several courses around the country, all of which provide excellent value for money.

Ubolratana Dam Golf Course’s new club house was opened in 2011 and has all the usual facilities. Good size locker rooms with plenty of showers, the pro’s shop is small but has the basics. Food and drink are available in the restaurant which is practical more than comfortable. Ubolratana Dam Golf Course is located 45 km north west of Khon Kaen (about 45 mins driving time). It is best to avoid weekends when it can get extremely busy.