Fourteen international players tee‑off at the Royal Springs Golf Course, giving a fresh lift to Kashmir’s high‑end sports tourism. Rain‑soaked fairways add extra challenge, making the competition even more compelling.

Key Takeaways

  • 14 foreign golfers from nine nations are participating
  • Rain makes fairways slower and balls less responsive
  • Prize money increased from ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore

On August 3, fourteen foreign golfers from nine different countries stepped onto the 18‑hole Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range in Srinagar. The event, part of the fifth edition of the J&K Open on the DP World Professional Golf Tour of India, is being billed as a catalyst for high‑end sports tourism in Kashmir.

Following the 2025 Pahalgam attack, foreign visitor numbers fell sharply, prompting organizers to emphasize security. Out of a field of 130 players, 14 are international, representing the United States, Japan, the Czech Republic, Bangladesh, Canada, Malaysia and others. The tournament will conclude on August 7.

U.S. professional Dominic Piccirillo said, “Seeing the mountains around the course reminded me of Salt Lake City, Utah – it’s right up against the peaks and looks incredibly similar. It’s one of the prettiest places I’ve ever played.” He noted the only stark contrast was the visible security presence on the streets.

Uganda’s Joshua Seale described the venue as “a good test of skill. The rough is quite high, making it challenging, yet the scenery is second to none.” Bangladesh’s Jamal Hossain added, “Rain has slowed the fairways, but playing in varied weather is the beauty of the game. The course design is impressive.”

The prize pool was doubled to ₹1 crore. DP World PGT CEO Amandeep Johl commented, “The Robert Trent Jones II‑designed RSGC offers championship‑level conditions and breathtaking surroundings. This tournament is part of J&K Tourism’s initiative to promote golf tourism.”

Historical Background

Golf in Kashmir dates back to the late 19th century when the British established the first courses in Pahalgam and Gulmarg. After a decline in foreign arrivals due to militancy, numbers rebounded to 43,654 in 2024 before dipping again after the 2025 attack. The current push aims to reposition Kashmir as a premier global golf destination.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that high‑end sports events like this not only boost local economies but also reshape Kashmir’s global image from a conflict zone to a premium tourism destination.

“Golf tourism can become a cornerstone of Kashmir’s economic revival,” says tourism analyst Dr. Rafik Ali.
RegionNumber of Golf Courses
Kashmir4 major courses
United States16,752 courses
Did You Know?: The first golf course in Kashmir was established in 1888, making it one of the oldest in the Indian subcontinent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is security ensured for foreign players in Kashmir?

A: Yes, organizers have deployed dedicated security personnel to guarantee a safe environment for all participants.

Q2: What is the prize money for the tournament winner?

A: The winner will share a portion of the ₹1 crore prize pool, along with international recognition.