A Legacy Unfulfilled
In the heart of Colombo, along Model Farm Road in Borella, stands the Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC)—a sporting institution established on 13 March 1879, making it one of the oldest golf clubs outside the United Kingdom. Founded by a handful of intrepid British expatriates who first played on the crowded expanse of Galle Face Green, the club moved to its present location in July 1896 when Governor Sir Joseph West Ridgeway gifted the land of the Alfred Model Farm—itself a gift to the colonial government from the Ceylonese philanthropist Sir Charles Henry de Soysa. In 1928, His Majesty King George V bestowed upon the club the privilege of using the prefix “Royal,” and consequently the Colombo Golf Club came to be known as the Royal Colombo Golf Club.
Today, the RCGC remains a living monument to Sri Lanka’s colonial sporting heritage. Its Ridgeway Links, named after the governor who facilitated its relocation, have hosted generations of golfers and witnessed the evolution of the sport in the region. The club’s Calcutta Medal, a challenge trophy presented by the Calcutta Golf Club in 1888, is still contested today—a tangible link between the golfing traditions of the two nations.
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Yet, for all its historical prestige, golf in Sri Lanka remains what it has been for over a century—an unknown sport, accessible only to a tiny niche of the population. According to market analysis, key restraints in the Sri Lankan golf tourism market include “limited awareness about Sri Lanka as a golf tourism destination”and “lack of developed infrastructure and facilities for golf tourism”. The Sri Lanka Golf Clubs Market faces significant challenges, including “limited awareness and interest in golf as a sport among the general population, leading to a relatively small consumer base”1.
This is not merely a sporting shortcoming; it is a missed opportunity of monumental proportions.
A Heritage of Distinction—Shared by Two Nations
Sri Lanka and India share a remarkably similar golfing origin story. Both nations inherited the sport from British colonial rulers who established courses in “hill stations” to escape the tropical heat. In India, the British moved to the Himalayan foothills—Simla, Darjeeling, Mussoorie, and Kashmir—while in Ceylon, Nuwara Eliya in the mountains became the premier course. As historian Paul Dimeo notes, “Golf has been in South Asia for over a century, playing an important role in colonial relations but failing to keep up with global developments in the period after Independence”.
The depth of Sri Lanka’s golfing heritage is remarkable and deserves recognition. The Sri Lanka Amateur Golf Championship, first played in Nuwara Eliya in March 1891, is the second oldest amateur golf championship in the world, after the British Amateur Golf Championship. J.W. Govan of the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club was the first champion of this historic tournament .
The championship was originally played twice a year until 1904—once each in Colombo and Nuwara Eliya—and was interrupted by both World Wars before being resumed in 1946, since when it has had an unbroken run .
The unique feature of the Championship lies in its original Match-Play format, similar to the British Amateur and the Ryder Cup . Since the formation of the Ceylon Golf Union in 1946, now renamed as Sri Lanka Golf, it has been run by the controlling body for golf in the country, working closely with the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews and the United States Golf Association .
From Colonial Pioneers to Sri Lankan Legends
The championship’s history reflects the broader social transformation of the nation. It was in 1912 that three De Saram brothers, Beauchamp, Fred, and E.R., became the first Ceylonese to play in the Championship. In 1923, Timothy De Silva became the first Ceylonese to win the championship, followed by Bertie E. Weerasinghe in 19295. After the Second World War, the legendary Pin Fernando made his mark among the British majority amateur golfers, winning the championship on nine occasions5. Then emerged K. Nandasena Perera on the scene in 1983, capturing the renamed Sri Lanka Amateur Golf Championship consecutively for three years from 1988 to 1990.
This pedigree places Sri Lanka among the most historic golfing nations in Asia. Yet, while India has transformed its golf landscape dramatically in recent years, Sri Lanka has remained largely static.
The contrast is a call to action!
India’s Golf Revolution: A Blueprint for Sri Lanka
India is currently undergoing a dramatic transformation in its golf sector. According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Indian government now views golf tourism as a high-value niche segment and a strategic component of national tourism development . The lessons for Sri Lanka are direct and powerful.
1. Government Commitment at the Highest Level
On 2 April 2026, Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat attended the official franchise launch of the Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) in New Delhi. Addressing the gathering, he declared that the initiative aims to mobilise US$2 billion of investment into golf tourism infrastructure—a commitment he described as “not merely a sporting initiative, but a strategic investment in Brand India”8.
The Minister further stated that India has “the potential to emerge as a leading destination in this segment,” with initiatives like IGPL playing a “catalytic role” in achieving this vision.
He emphasized that “golf tourism globally attracts high-value visitors and drives long-term economic growth”. He further emphasised that Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 calls for development of world-class infrastructure that attracts global investment and generates employment.
This level of political commitment is precisely what Sri Lanka needs. As Shekhawat stated: “The integration of sports, tourism and hospitality reflects a forward-looking approach to strengthening our global tourism footprint” .
2. Public Golf Course Development: The Kharghar Model
The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has upgraded the Kharghar Valley Golf Course in Navi Mumbai from a 9-hole to an 18-hole international championship-standard course . The facility now features:
- 29 hitting bays with professional coaching
- The country’s longest fairway stretching 756 yards9
- Plans to host PGTI and IGU professional tournaments9
- The first public golf course in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region since independence
According to CIDCO officials, this project “not only places Navi Mumbai on the global sports map but is also expected to boost tourism and the local economy” . It is a model of state-owned, publicly accessible golf facilities providing world-class training opportunities to all citizens—precisely what Sri Lanka needs to develop.
3. The Growing Recognition of Golf’s Broader Value
Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) CEO Amandeep Singh Johl has articulated the vision of golf’s transformative potential in India. Speaking at the “Raising An Athlete” Sports Talk Series hosted by Equalsportz, Johl stated that “golf has the potential to emerge as a major driver of tourism, investment, and economic activity in India”. He emphasized that India “needs more golf courses, more access, and more awareness,” adding that “golf can support tourism, real estate, investment, and economic activity. The potential is huge” .
Johl also highlighted golf’s unique social value, describing the sport as “one of the greatest family sports, where grandparents, parents, and children can spend quality time together” . He urged parents to view golf as more than just a competitive sport and encouraged greater participation among children without the pressure of immediate success.
Reflecting on the values associated with the sport, he described integrity as golf’s greatest lesson: “Golf is one of the games closest to life. You get good breaks and bad breaks, but you still have to play the ball as it lies”.
4. The Franchise Model: Mobilizing Corporate Investment
The IGPL’s 10-city franchise model demonstrates how private capital can be mobilised for golf development. The initiative aims to expand tourism into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, creating a sustainable ecosystem combining sporting excellence with infrastructure development and economic growth.
This model is directly relevant to Sri Lanka’s corporate sector. Sri Lankan businesses could similarly view golf sponsorship and development as strategic business investments rather than philanthropic expenses.
Vietnam’s Golf Transformation: A Regional Success Story
While India provides a model rooted in shared colonial heritage, Vietnam offers a compelling example of how a Southeast Asian nation has transformed itself into a global golf tourism powerhouse in just over a decade. The Vietnamese experience holds valuable lessons for Sri Lanka.
1. National Recognition and Strategic Priority
Vietnam has positioned golf tourism as a strategic priority in its national tourism development strategy through 2030. The government has recognized that golf tourism attracts high-value visitors who spend significantly more than average tourists, and has made it a key component of the country’s tourism growth strategy.
The Vietnamese government has taken the extraordinary step of appointing golf legend Greg Norman as Tourism Ambassador, leveraging his global profile to promote the country as a premier golfing destination . This demonstrates the level of commitment that Sri Lanka could emulate.
2. Exceptional Infrastructure Development
Vietnam’s golf infrastructure development has been nothing short of remarkable. The country now has more than 90 operational 18-hole golf courses, with numbers expected to reach 200 by 2030. These include world-class facilities designed by legendary names including Greg Norman, Nick Faldo, and Jack Nicklaus.
Several leading golf resorts have opened to international acclaim, cementing Vietnam’s reputation as a premier golf tourism destination. The country has won “Asia’s Best Golf Destination” for eight consecutive years (2017-2024) and twice received the prestigious “World’s Best Golf Destination” award .
3. Economic Impact
Vietnam’s golf tourism strategy has delivered measurable economic results. In 2022, golf tourism generated US$460 million in revenue**, and by 2025, this is projected to surpass **US$1 billion, accounting for 8-10% of the country’s total tourism revenue .
Perhaps most strikingly, Vietnam’s golf tourists spend six times more than average tourists, creating a lucrative premium market segment . This demonstrates the disproportionate economic impact that golf tourism can deliver.
4. Major International Investment
Vietnam has attracted significant foreign investment in golf infrastructure. The Trump Organization has announced a US$1.5 billion golf resort development in Hanoi, one of several high-profile international golf projects in the country . This investment validates Vietnam’s strategy and demonstrates the commercial potential of golf tourism development.
5. The R&A’s Recognition
The Royal & Ancient (R&A), golf’s world governing body, has recognized Vietnam’s potential, signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the national golf association to further develop the game in the country. This endorsement from the global governing body provides further validation of Vietnam’s golf development strategy.
Comparative Analysis: India, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka
| Indicator | India | Vietnam | Sri Lanka |
| Government Strategy | US$2 billion investment target, Ministerial endorsement | National tourism strategy through 2030, Greg Norman as Ambassador | Limited to general tourism promotion |
| Number of Golf Courses | Nearly 283 | 90+ (targeting 200 by 2030) | Fewer than 10 |
| International Awards | Emerging golf destination | “Asia’s Best Golf Destination” (8 years), “World’s Best” (2 years) | Asian Games (Silver Medal)- 1990, 2002 |
| Golf Tourism Revenue | US$721.3 million projected by 2030 | US$1 billion projected by 2025 | Negligible |
| Spend Multiplier | 3.5x economic contribution potential | 6x spending vs average tourists | Not measured |
| Public Course Model | Kharghar Valley (state-owned, public access) | Mixed public-private | Limited to private clubs |
| Corporate Investment | US$250 million franchise commitments | US$1.5 billion (Trump Organization) | Minimal |
The Sri Lankan Paradox: Advantages Unrealized
Sri Lanka possesses advantages that regional competitors can only dream of. The nation’s tropical climate allows for year-round golf. Its stunning natural beauty—from the hill country of Nuwara Eliya to the coastal regions and cultural triangle—offers the perfect setting for combined golf and cultural tours. Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, from ancient kingdoms to colonial architecture, provides unique experiences that golf tourists seek.
Yet, Sri Lanka has failed to capitalize on these advantages. According to industry analysis, key restraints in the Sri Lankan golf tourism market include “limited awareness about Sri Lanka as a golf tourism destination” and “lack of developed infrastructure and facilities for golf tourism” . The market research identifies several growth drivers that Sri Lanka could leverage: increasing disposable income in source markets, growing interest in golf as a leisure activity, and the potential for government initiatives to promote Sri Lanka as a golfing destination .
The Sri Lanka Golf Clubs Market faces significant challenges that must be addressed. The high cost associated with golf club memberships, equipment, and maintenance acts as a deterrent for potential players. Infrastructure limitations such as the unavailability of quality golf courses and facilities for the public poses the biggest challenge in attracting and retaining golf enthusiasts and growing the game in the country. Competition from other leisure and recreational activities in the country may impact the growth and development of the golf club’s market .
The government’s current policies related to the Sri Lanka Golf Clubs Market focus primarily on promoting tourism and sports development, with incentives and tax breaks to attract foreign investment in the golf industry. However, these efforts have yet to translate into significant growth or accessibility.
The R&A’s Global Vision and the Asian Opportunity
The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&A), the world governing body for golf, has articulated a clear vision for the sport’s global expansion. The R&A aims to “open golf to the world,” recognizing that the sport’s future depends on reaching new audiences in developing nations. According to the R&A’s 2025 strategic plan, global participation outside the USA and Mexico has surged to 112.2 million adults and juniors, representing an increase of 4.2 million golfers’ year-on-year .
The R&A has singled out Asia as a key growth region, recognizing the continent’s enormous untapped potential. Golf is now an Olympic sport, and participation is growing rapidly across Asia.
Sri Lanka represents precisely the kind of untapped market that the R&A seeks to develop. However, the infrastructure, awareness, and policy support required for this development are currently lacking. The potential, however, is enormous.
What Sri Lanka Can Learn from India and Vietnam
The successes of India and Vietnam offer a comprehensive roadmap for Sri Lanka. By combining India’s model of government commitment and corporate franchise investment with Vietnam’s emphasis on tourism integration and international destination branding, Sri Lanka can accelerate its own golf development. The key lessons are:
| Pillar | India’s Achievement | Vietnam’s Achievement | Sri Lanka’s Opportunity |
| Government Commitment | US$2 billion investment target, Ministerial endorsement | National tourism strategy, Greg Norman as Ambassador | Government policy and funding for public courses |
| Public Infrastructure | Kharghar Valley—public 18-hole international standard | 90+ courses, targeting 200 by 20307 | Develop public courses in rural and semi-urban areas |
| Private Investment | IGPL franchise model, US$250 million commitments | US$1.5 billion (Trump Organization) | Engage Sri Lankan corporates and foreign investors |
| International Recognition | Emerging golf destination | “Asia’s Best” 8 consecutive years | Target international destination status |
| Tourism Integration | “Incredible India” campaign including golf | Six times tourist spending premium | Market Sri Lanka as a golfing paradise |
| Youth Development | Golf academies, grassroots programmes | Growing junior participation | Establish structured pathways from schools |
A Vision for Transformation
This series of articles presents a compelling vision: that golf can be a powerful engine for economic growth, tourism, and social mobility in Sri Lanka. The sport offers opportunities that extend far beyond the fairways:
Economic Growth: A strategic approach to golf development could generate significant foreign exchange, attract foreign investment, and create new industrial sectors—from course design and maintenance to equipment manufacturing and event management. Both India and Vietnam have demonstrated the economic multiplier effects of golf development.
Tourism Development: Golf tourism attracts high-net-worth visitors who spend significantly more than average tourists, stay longer, and visit during off-peak seasons. Vietnam’s six-times spending premium demonstrates the economic power of golf tourism. Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for combined golf and cultural experiences.
Social Mobility: Golf has proven pathways from poverty to prosperity. The legendary K. Nandasena Perera’s journey from a caddie to National Champion to Professional Golfer embodies the sport’s power to transform lives. Success stories like Anura Rohana, Nadarajah Thangaraja, Mithun Perera, and K. Prabagaran who rose from humble beginnings to international professional status, demonstrate that golf can break cycles of poverty.
Youth Development: With golf now an Olympic sport, there are clear pathways for young Sri Lankans to compete on the international stage. The Sri Lanka Junior Open and other youth tournaments provide platforms for talent development. India’s grassroots programmes and Vietnam’s growing junior participation offer models for Sri Lanka.
National Image: Hosting international tournaments puts Sri Lanka on the global sports map, projecting an image of a safe, capable, and world-class destination to an affluent global audience. Both India and Vietnam have used golf tournaments to enhance their international standing.
The Call to Action
Sri Lanka stands at a crossroads. The nation possesses a golfing heritage older than most Asian countries, yet it has allowed this heritage to wither. India and Vietnam have shown that transformation is possible—not in decades, but in years.
The Sri Lanka Golf Clubs (equipment) Market is projected to witness mixed growth rate patterns during 2025 to 2029, with growth accelerating to 10.22% in 2027. This projected growth indicates a window of opportunity that must be seized with strategic intent. As market analysis suggests, addressing the challenges facing the golf industry “would require targeted marketing efforts to increase awareness, initiatives to make golf more accessible and affordable, and investments in improving golf infrastructure in Sri Lanka” .
The integration of sports, tourism and hospitality through golf development represents a forward-looking approach to strengthening Sri Lanka’s global tourism footprint. The benefits are clear:
- Economic growth through tourism, investment, and industrial development
- Social mobility through pathways from poverty to professional careers
- National pride through hosting international events
- Youth development through structured pathways from school to international competition
- Cultural exchange through golf’s global community
“The time for talk is over. The time for action is now. A national vision is needed to move golf from the margins to the mainstream—not just for the sport, but for the nation’s future!”
The next article in this series will examine the immense economic power of golf—a multi-billion-dollar global industry that rivals Formula 1 in wealth. It will analyze Sri Lanka’s current negligible share of this lucrative market, present compelling evidence from India and Vietnam on the economic transformation that strategic golf development can deliver, and make the case for why the government and private sector must urgently recognize and invest in golf’s industrial potential.
By Affli Raheem
The Writer is a seasoned golfer, patron, operations director, consultant, and writer, equipped with a diverse range of experience across fields such as business management, education, consultancy, and journalism. Send your queries to : afflli.raheem@gmail.com
