Yak Golf Course & Env. Park
The Yak Golf Course and Environmental Park, located in the high-altitude region of Kupup in East Sikkim, is a world-renowned destination that holds the Guinness World Record for being the highest golf course on the planet, situated at an elevation of 13,025 feet. Established in 1972 and subsequentl y expanded and redesigned by the Indian Army, this 18-hole course is a marvel of landscape design and military perseverance. The course measures approximately 6,025 yards in length and is integrated seamlessly into the rugged Himalayan terrain. Unlike traditional golf courses with manicured lawns, the Yak Golf Course features fairways that wind through natural mountain streams, rocky outcrops, and alpine meadows. The air at this altitude is so thin that the golf ball travels significantly further than at sea level, presenting a unique challenge even for professional golfers. The Environmental Park section of the complex is dedicated to preserving the fragile high-altitude ecosystem of the region. It features a variety of endemic flora, including rare species of Primula, Blue Poppies, and high-altitude shrubs. The park provides a sanctuary for local wildlife and serves as an educational center for visitors to learn about Himalayan conservation. During the winter months, the entire course is transformed into a winter sports arena, where the fairways are used for skiing and the frozen water bodies within the course become venues for ice hockey. The course is managed with meticulous care by the Indian Army, and its clubhouse is a repository of military history and golfing memorabilia. The panoramic views from the course are stunning, with the Elephant Lake (Kupup Lake) visible nearby and the snow-capped peaks of the Indo-Tibetan border providing a dramatic backdrop. Whether you are an avid golfer looking to tick off a bucket-list achievement or a nature lover wanting to explore a high-altitude park, this location offers a blend of sport, history, and environmental beauty that is truly unique to Sikkim.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Sports and Nature ParkEntry Fees:
Green Fees: For those wishing to play golf, there is a fee of approximately INR 500 to INR 1000 for civilians, which includes equipment rental.
Park Entry: Entry to the Environmental Park is usually included in the general Silk Route permit...Green Fees: For those wishing to play golf, there is a fee of approximately INR 500 to INR 1000 for civilians, which includes equipment rental.
Park Entry: Entry to the Environmental Park is usually included in the general Silk Route permit, though a small maintenance fee of INR 50 might be charged locally. The Protected Area Permit (PAP) costs remain the same as other sites (INR 200-500).Timing:
Regular Timings: The course is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM for golfing. The Environmental Park can be visited during daylight hours.
Ideal Visit Time: May to October is the best time for golf. For winter sports, January is ideal. The be...Regular Timings: The course is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM for golfing. The Environmental Park can be visited during daylight hours.
Ideal Visit Time: May to October is the best time for golf. For winter sports, January is ideal. The best time of day is 10:00 AM when the sun is warm enough to enjoy being outdoors at such a high altitude.Special Events:
The Saragarhi Cup: This is a prestigious golf tournament held annually at the course to commemorate military history. It attracts army officers and civilian golfers from across India. The event is a grand affair with military bands and traditional ceremonies.The Saragarhi Cup: This is a prestigious golf tournament held annually at the course to commemorate military history. It attracts army officers and civilian golfers from across India. The event is a grand affair with military bands and traditional ceremonies.
International Mountain Day: Celebrated in the Environmental Park in December, with awareness programs about the Himalayan ecosystem and small exhibitions of local flora.Best Photo Spots:
The World Record Board: A photo with the official board mentioning the Guinness World Record is a must for every visitor.
The Elephant Lake Backdrop: The edge of the course that overlooks Kupup Lake offers a stunning composition of the blue...The World Record Board: A photo with the official board mentioning the Guinness World Record is a must for every visitor.
The Elephant Lake Backdrop: The edge of the course that overlooks Kupup Lake offers a stunning composition of the blue water and the green (or white) fairways.
Yak with Golf Bag: Capturing a yak next to the golfing equipment is a quirky and unique shot that defines the location.
Snowy Fairways: In winter, the pristine white slopes against the blue sky are a photographer's dream.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Playing a Round of High-Altitude Golf: The ultimate thing to do is to play at least a few holes on the world's highest course. You can rent equipment from the clubhouse. The experience of teeing off amidst the Himalayas is unparalleled.
Yak Riding Across the Fairways: For non-golfers, riding a decorated yak across the gentle slopes of the course is a fun and traditional way to see the landscape. It is a great activity for families and provides excellent photo opportunities.
Exploring the Environmental Park: Walk through the botanical sections to see the Blue Poppies and other rare Himalayan flowers. The well-marked trails are perfect for a gentle nature walk.
Visiting the Army Clubhouse Museum: Spend time in the clubhouse reading about the history of the cou...
Information
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Why Famous:
Guinness World Record: The course is globally famous for its altitude of 13,025 feet, officially recognized as the highest permanent golf course in the world. This title makes it a pilgrimage site for golfers.
Military Heritage: It is famo...Guinness World Record: The course is globally famous for its altitude of 13,025 feet, officially recognized as the highest permanent golf course in the world. This title makes it a pilgrimage site for golfers.
Military Heritage: It is famous for being maintained and operated by the Indian Army, showcasing their ability to create recreational spaces in extreme conditions.
Unique Hazards: Unlike any other course, players here have to deal with yaks crossing the fairways and the extreme "preferred lie" rules to protect clubs from the rocky soil. Its transition into a Ski Center in winter also adds to its legendary status. -
Architecture:
The 18-Hole Layout: The architecture of the Yak Golf Course is defined by its adaptation to the natural contours of the mountain. Designed by renowned architect Neil Haworth in collaboration with the Indian Army (specifically Brigadier J. M. Singh and Brigadier Ranbir Sin...The 18-Hole Layout: The architecture of the Yak Golf Course is defined by its adaptation to the natural contours of the mountain. Designed by renowned architect Neil Haworth in collaboration with the Indian Army (specifically Brigadier J. M. Singh and Brigadier Ranbir Singh), the course layout uses natural hazards like mountain streams and ponds instead of man-made bunkers. The fairways are approximately 30 to 50 yards wide.
The Clubhouse: The clubhouse is a sturdy, mountain-style structure built to withstand heavy snowfall. It measures roughly 200 square meters and includes a trophy room, a small café, and equipment storage. The building features sloped tin roofs and stone-cladded walls.
The Environmental Park Features: The park section includes stone-paved walking paths that extend for over 1 KM, leading visitors through different botanical zones. Small wooden bridges cross the streams, and informational kiosks provide details on the local ecology. The dimensions of the entire complex cover several acres of the high-altitude plateau. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Bagdogra and drive for 8 hours.
By Train: Reach NJP station and take a dedicated SUV for the Silk Route circuit.
By Road: From Zuluk, it is a 1. 5-hour drive covering 33 KMS. The road passes... -
Near Tourist Places:
Kupup Lake (2 KM), Old Baba Mandir (5 KM), New Baba Mandir (15 KM), Nathang Valley (10 KM), Tukla Valley (12 KM), Jelep La Pass (7 KM), Tsomgo Lake (25 KM), Menmecho Lake (8 KM), Zuluk (33 KM), Hathi Lake (2 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: This is at 13,000 ft. Very thin air. Walk slowly. People with heart or lung conditions should consult a doctor before visiting. Carry portable oxygen.
Packing: Extremely heavy woolens, thermal wear, and waterproof jacke...
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