I struck a decent shot at a lush green golf resort in Kathmandu city. I was pretty much excited but not the lone spectator. He decided to push off immediately after my first shot. I sighed with relief, grasped the club and sheeewwww went my next shot. What I saw next swept me off my feet. That lone spectator was back with a host of his friends. That was the end of the show. I didn’t have the guts to play to the gallery with a long-tailed audience.
A dozen monkeys had wandered up to watch my game at South Asia’s finest golf course stunningly set within the Gokarna Forest Resort inside Gokarna Forest, the former private royal hunting grounds of Nepal, where both amateurs and pros enjoy the privilege of playing in the middle of the jungle. Given the unparalleled beauty of the course, designed by David Kidd of Gleneagles Golf Developments of Scotland, it is no surprise that the resort regularly receives golfers from all over the world and several international tournaments are frequently hosted here.
“Why don’t you take a few lessons from our pros?” suggested Dorjee Sherpa, a hospitality veteran who is at the helm of affairs. “We have a 280-yard practice facility at a nominal fee.” I was savouring Thai and Chinese delicacies at The Club House Restaurant next to the golf course and soaking in the panoramic view of the forest and the greens. Golf lessons were far away from my itinerary.
A winding road led through the forest to the main complex, comprising a mix of subtly majestic Malla period architecture, Rana period lodges, blending harmoniously with nature. I chose a Forest View cottage room set beside a century-old well. A fine dining restaurant served authentic Nepali cuisine, in the form of 16-course set meals.
An early morning walk followed by a swim at the indoor temperature-controlled swimming pool was a great way to start the day. For health freaks, the large well-equipped gym overlooks the forest allowing some fantastic views through large windows.
After a hearty breakfast, I was ready to explore the Gokarna Forest Reserve accompanied by Dorjee. We didn’t see any leopards but there were some very special herbs, birds. I also visited the Gokarna Mahadev Temple right inside the forest. All those who don’t want to walk through the sprawling property can call for a hotel golf cart.
Two hours of walking and I was ready for the Harmony Spa. After a wonderful Ayurvedic treatment with a special facial, I was all set to hit the 8848 Mt. Bar, which takes its name from the height of Mt. Everest.
Commune with nature while sitting in the lap of luxury at the Gokarna Forest Resort, Kathmandu.
