Tee offs by 14 foreign golfers come as a shot in the arm for high-end sports tourism in Kashmir

A group of 14 foreign golfers, hailing from nine different countries, have begun teeing off at the Royal Spring Golf Course (RSGC) in Srinagar, adding a boost to high-end sports tourism in Kashmir. This development comes following the 2025 Pahalgam attack, which discouraged foreign tourists from visiting the region. The J&K Open, the fifth edition of the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India, features 130 players in total, with the foreign participants from countries like the United States, Japan, Czech Republic, Bangladesh, Canada, and Malaysia, aiming to instill a sense of security among potential tourists. The tournament is scheduled to conclude on August 7.

Upon arriving at the RSGC, the foreign golfers have drawn comparisons between the course's landscape and that of U.S. courses, particularly those in Salt Lake City, Utah. Dominic Piccirillo, a pro golfer from the U.S., expressed his awe at the mountains surrounding the golf course, comparing it to the best golfing destinations he has played in.

However, he noted the presence of security personnel on the streets as a stark contrast to his usual golfing experience. Joshua Seale, a golfer from Uganda, described the RSGC as "picturesque" and a "test of skills," appreciating the high rough and the breathtaking views. Jamal Hossain, a golfer from Bangladesh, praised the course design but acknowledged the challenges posed by the rain, which has made the fairways slower than usual.

Amandeep Johl, the Chief Executive Officer of DP World PGT, highlighted the tournament's significance in promoting golf tourism in J&K, with the total prize purse now raised to ₹1 crore. The event also serves as a testament to J&K's efforts to revive foreign tourist interest, which had dwindled significantly following past militancy.

As part of J&K Tourism's initiative to promote golf tourism in the region, the tournament follows the presence of other golf courses in the area, including the Jammu Tawi Golf Course, Pahalgam Golf Course, and Gulmarg Golf Club, each offering a mesmerizing experience for golfers. Syed Qamar Sajad, director of the Kashmir tourism department, emphasized the department's goal of positioning Kashmir as a premier golf tourism destination by attracting global golfers, showcasing local talent, and boosting high-end sports tourism.