The short answer
Ranikhet Golf Course, Upat: what visitors should know first
Go if you play golf, or simply want open meadows and views. Play is at the army's discretion, so ask well ahead. Even non-players can enjoy the setting, though access to the course may be restricted.
History and context
The story behind Ranikhet Golf Course, Upat
Outlook Traveller says the course was laid out in the 1920s. Its status as one of Asia's highest is repeated in tourism sources but not independently verified.
Useful facts
Ranikhet Golf Course, Upat facts at a glance
- Location
- Upat, about 5-6 km from town
- Sport
- Golf, nine holes
- Access
- At the army's discretion; apply in advance
- When to go
- Morning, March to June or October to November
- Founded
- 1920s, per Outlook Traveller
Why it matters
Why Ranikhet Golf Course, Upat is worth your time
A nine-hole course was laid out around Upat and Kalika Devi Temple sometime in the 1920s, per Outlook Traveller, and the army has maintained it since. At roughly 1,800 metres it is described in several sources as one of the highest courses in Asia, though independent measurements were not found.
The course is part of the cantonment's leisure culture, which the British built around churches, a club and open green space. It remains a favourite for army families and weekend visitors, and it explains why Ranikhet has long attracted retired officers.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The meadows
Open grass between pine and deodar forest, with views of snow peaks on clear days.
- 02
A high course
Reported as one of Asia's highest, at roughly 1,800 metres.
- 03
Kalika nearby
The temple is beside the course and makes an easy combined stop.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
If you play, contact the course in advance through your hotel or the regimental authorities, because access depends on the army. Go in the morning, when the air is cool and views are clearest. A taxi from town takes about 15 minutes.
Playing nine holes takes two to three hours at a relaxed pace. The course sits on meadows between pine and deodar forest, with snow peaks visible on clear days. Take care near the edge: sources mention a steep drop on one side.
If you do not play, you can still walk the road, sit on the grass and visit Kalika Devi Temple nearby. Carry a light layer, because the wind can be sharp even in summer, and return before dusk.
Plan with confidence
Event-led places reward a little planning.
- Ask about access and fees well ahead
- Go in the morning and carry a light layer
- Take care near the steep edge
- Combine with Kalika Devi Temple
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Upat, about 5 to 6 km from Ranikhet town
- Time needed
- 2-3 hours for a round; 30-60 minutes to look around
- Best time
- Morning; March to June and October to November
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The course is open and gently rolling but exposed, with a steep drop at one edge. Carts or caddies may be available. Older visitors can enjoy the surroundings without playing, and should keep to marked areas and the road.
- Tickets and access
- Civilians can play at the army's discretion, and foreigners are advised to apply well in advance, per Outlook Traveller. Fees reported in older sources are out of date, so confirm current charges and booking rules with the course.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Ranikhet Golf Course, Upat
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The course is open and gently rolling but exposed, with a steep drop at one edge. Carts or caddies may be available. Older visitors can enjoy the surroundings without playing, and should keep to marked areas and the road.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Can civilians play at the Ranikhet golf course?
Yes, but at the army's discretion; foreigners should apply well in advance.
How many holes?
Nine.
Is it one of the highest in Asia?
Several sources say so, but it is not independently verified.
Sources and further reading
- Outlook Traveller: Ranikhet, the hill paradise where the British housed the army
- Tour My India: best places to visit in Ranikhet
- Wikipedia: Ranikhet
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.