World's highest golf course: A hole-in-one destination in Mustang

Mustang, August 18 - The surrounding highlands of Mustang provide a broad perspective of verdant vistas and vibrantly sculpted hills when the weather clears. Indra Dhara Bista, a former assembly member of Gandaki province, could scarcely have imagined that this serene village, known for its yak and mountain goat grazing, would one day host the golf course situated at the world’s highest altitude.

In 2007, Bista was introduced to golf during a visit to Arizona and saw the potential for a golf course in Lo Manthang. At that time, he believed golf was a sport for the elites. His experience in Arizona inspired him to dream of creating a golf destination in Mustang.

When he became the assembly member from Upper Mustang, Bista incorporated the idea of a high-altitude golf course into the tourism policy of Gandaki. Despite the policy's adoption, funding for the project was limited. Bista allocated four million rupees through the Constituency Infrastructure Development Program to build a road leading to the golf course, which initially faced skepticism from villagers.

Two years ago, the golf course was established at an altitude of 4,700 meters, and this Saturday marks the third edition of the amateur golf tournament held there. Golfers from across the country have come to Lo Manthang to participate, with 36 players, including five women, competing this year.

Indra Dhara Bista won the title at the 3rd Mustang Golf Tournament, while Bal Kashi Gurung of Pokhara claimed the women's title. The tournament was held a month earlier than usual to take advantage of the dry season, which runs from July to October, the best time for golf in Mustang due to its dry weather.

Golf technician Bhu Bahadur Gurung (Bhuwan) noted that Mustang’s golf course could attract international players if it were expanded to 18 holes and improved. Innovations like a yak prize for a hole-in-one and local cultural displays have been introduced to enhance the experience.

Golfer Bhakta Raj Gurung suggested that upgrading the road to Mustang could improve the course’s international appeal. He recommended that the state recognize the golf course as a national asset to boost tourism and attract visitors during the off-season. The local community hopes that the course will contribute to increased revenue by drawing sports tourists year-round.