Phnom Penh – A Hidden Golf Paradise – by Ian Morgan

Golf in Phnom Penh has grown in popularity in recent years, with a number of excellent courses available for golf  tourists to enjoy. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, there is something for everyone in the capital city of Cambodia when on a Phnom Penh Golf Trip.

I spent some time looking around the capital and seeing how it has recovered from COVID, and I was pleasantly surprised by what I found.

One of the top golf courses in Phnom Penh is the Vattanac Golf Club, featuring the East and West Courses. Designed by Sir Nick Faldo, these courses offer challenging layouts that will test golfers of all skill levels. The East Course features lush fairways and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while the West Course offers a more challenging terrain with water hazards and strategically placed bunkers. For me, these two courses are right up there with the best in any neighbouring country, though I would give a lead to the East Course over the West.

An exciting addition to the Phnom Penh golf scene is the 5-star Chhun On course, which opened for play in March 2024. This new course promises a luxurious golfing experience with state-of-the-art facilities almost complete and a meticulously designed layout that will challenge and delight players of all levels. Designed by Brian Curley, it’s a top quality course with Zion Zoysia Grass which makes it very enjoyable to walk on and play from. It even has a complimentary 19^th hole with an island green that has to be reached by boat!

With the addition of this excellent course, it really gives Phnom Penh a solid base for a 6 night, 4 round golf trip which is great for all golfers.

Another popular golf course in Phnom Penh is the Garden City Golf Club. This 18-hole course was designed by IMG, a renowned golf course design company, and features wide fairways, undulating greens, and beautiful landscaping that will make you feel like you are playing golf in a tropical paradise. Garden City is the perfect course to finish your Phnom Penh Golf Holiday on.

Aside from golf, there are plenty of sites to see in Phnom Penh. One of the most iconic landmarks in the city is the Royal Palace, which is home to the King of Cambodia and a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s history and culture. The nearby Silver Pagoda is another popular attraction, with its stunning silver floor tiles and priceless Buddha statues.

For a more somber yet equally captivating experience, visitors can explore the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, which offer a sobering look at Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge regime. The bustling Central Market – also known as the Russian Market –  and the peaceful Mekong River waterfront are also worth a visit for those looking to experience the vibrant energy of Phnom Penh. At the Central Market in Phnom Penh, visitors can purchase a variety of items including jewelry, clothing, accessories, handicrafts, souvenirs, electronics, fresh produce, and local delicacies. Definitely worth a stop to get some souvenirs to take home to the family.

In conclusion, a Phnom Penh Golf Holiday offers a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors to the city. With a variety of excellent courses to choose from and plenty of sites to see, Phnom Penh is a great destination for golf enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

To learn more about a Phnom Penh Golf Trip, please email me for more information