Golf Tourism Boost: Khyber Cup Debuts at Royal Springs Golf Course - Greater Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 24: The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, hosted the inaugural Khyber Cup Golf Tournament at the stunning Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar from September 20-21. Sponsored by American Express and managed by Rishi Narain Sports Marketing (RNSM), the event brought together over 100 golfers from across the country for a thrilling competition in one of India’s most picturesque settings.

With Kashmir drawing millions of tourists annually, The Khyber Resort has launched this annual golf tournament to promote golf tourism in Jammu & Kashmir. The region’s natural beauty, ideal for golf, combined with the luxury experience offered by The Khyber, aims to attract more golf enthusiasts to the area. Khalil Tramboo, Director of Pinnacle Resorts and promoter of The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, expressed a vision to make the Khyber Cup an annual event that meets international standards, a statement said

The Royal Springs Golf Course, nestled against the Zabarwan Range and overlooking Dal Lake, provided a perfect backdrop for the tournament. Known as one of India’s most challenging courses, it tested the skills of players across two rounds and 36 holes.

Rishi Narain, Tournament Director and Managing Director of RNSM, praised the success of the event, highlighting the positive feedback from participants and the potential for the Khyber Cup to become a premier annual golfing event in India.

The Khyber Cup was not just a competition but a celebration of golf amidst Kashmir’s pristine natural beauty. Participants enjoyed a luxurious stay at The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg, followed by a Gala Dinner and an award ceremony with live musical performances.

In the Visitors’ Category, Vijay Kumar Jha won Division A with a score of 145, narrowly beating runner-up Amit Khansaheb. Anil Arora claimed victory in Division B with a score of 150 after a tie-break, with Vineet Rastogi finishing as runner-up. In the Royal Springs Golf Course Members’ Category, Shabbir Bhat won Division A on a tie-break, and Zaman Sheikh won Division B, both with outstanding performances.

Chandana Raju emerged as the Ladies’ Winner with a score of 151. Special contests added to the excitement, with Bharat Sharma winning “Closest to Pin,” Ahmed Mir securing the “Longest Drive” with an impressive 315 yards, and DP Singh taking home the “Straightest Drive” title. In the Ladies’ category, Haya Trumboo won “Straightest Drive.”

The tournament marked the successful beginning of what promises to be a highly anticipated annual event in the Indian golf calendar, combining sport and luxury in the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir.

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, India’s only luxury ski resort, is located in the Pir Panjal range at an elevation of 8,825 feet, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. The 85-room resort, launched in 2012, features world-class amenities, including The Khyber Spa by L’OCCITANE, a wellness block, and proximity to the world’s highest golf course. The resort is renowned for its impeccable service and warm hospitality, making it an ideal destination for luxury and adventure.