Xishuangbanna Monbala International Golf Club

Nestled in Menghai County, Xishuangbanna (西双版纳), the Monbala International Golf Club (勐巴拉国际高尔夫球会) is an 18-hole, par 72 mountain course designed by the Davidson Golf Design Company from Canada. This challenging and picturesque course spans 7,414 yards and combines tropical rainforest, terraced landscapes, and preserved native vegetation, making it a unique golfing destination in Yunnan. The club’s name, “Monbala,” means “Beautiful Place” in Dai language (傣语), reflecting the scenic beauty of the area. The course offers a variety of challenges, with elevations changes up to 70 meters, weaving through both native forest and agricultural terrain.

Location and Accessibility

Address: Manxing Lake, Menghai County, Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China (near National Highway G214).

Phone: 0691-5136888

Distance from Xishuangbanna Airport: Approximately 40 minutes by car.

Distance from Jinghong City Center: About 45 minutes by car.

Nearby Attractions

Wild Elephant Valley (野象谷): Located 50 minutes away, this reserve offers an opportunity to witness wild elephants in their natural habitat.

Mengjinglai Dai Village (勐景来傣寨): A cultural experience of Dai ethnic traditions, providing insight into the local community’s way of life.

Menghai Tea Horse Ancient Road (勐海茶马古道): A historic route that connects the ancient tea trade to the horse culture, still holding significance today.

Course Design and Features

Course Layout

Type: 18-hole, Par 72 course.

Total Length: 7,414 yards (6,779 meters).

Elevation: Ranges from 1,180 to 1,250 meters above sea level, offering a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 18.1°C.

Design: The course is set within a dense valley surrounded by forest. The front nine and back nine holes meander through the natural topography, providing both challenges and visual delights for golfers of all levels.

Signature Holes

Hole 1 (427 yards, Par 4): A stunning opening hole, featuring a 240-yard creek that cuts across the fairway. Players must carefully navigate the water and land the ball in the right position to set up a successful second shot.

Hole 9 (557 yards, Par 5): This narrow uphill hole has water hazards on both sides, requiring precision and strategic shot-making.

Hole 12 (688 yards, Par 5): This long hole is one of the most demanding on the course, featuring a split fairway. The left side is the safer choice, but it’s narrow, requiring skillful play to avoid water hazards.

Hole 17 (Par 3): A beautiful peninsula green with a large elevation change. It’s considered one of the best par 3 holes in the course.

Facilities and Amenities

Core Facilities

18-Hole Championship Golf Course: Equipped with a full lighting system for night golf.

Double-Tier Driving Range: Features 32 hitting bays, including 6 VIP rooms for more private practice sessions.

Mountain-Top Clubhouse: Spanning over 4,500㎡, the clubhouse includes a Pu’er Tea Room, VIP rooms, spa facilities, and more.

Additional Amenities:

• Outdoor BBQ area for group dining and leisure.

• Hot Springs Spa for relaxation after a round.

Accommodation Options

Golf View Villas: These private villas feature balconies with stunning views of the golf course and surrounding mountains.

Hot Spring Suites: Includes access to the hot spring facilities and airport transfer service.

Dining and Cuisine

Signature Dishes

Dai Style Pickled Bamboo Shoot Fish (傣味酸笋鱼): A famous dish that combines the sourness of pickled bamboo shoots with the freshness of local fish, creating a unique flavor profile.

Pu’er Tea Smoked Chicken (普洱茶熏鸡): Chicken smoked with the famous Pu’er tea, giving it a distinctive flavor.

Restaurants

Rainforest View Café: Offering a serene dining experience with views of the surrounding rainforest. Guests can enjoy fresh local ingredients and traditional Yunnanese flavors.

Golf-Themed Bar: Perfect for winding down after a round of golf, with a variety of drinks and a comfortable atmosphere.

Pricing

Service	Weekday Price (CNY)	Weekend Price (CNY)	Notes
18-Hole Round	800	1,200
Practice Range	60 CNY/hour	80 CNY/hour

Golf Tips and Features

Course Challenges

Hole 1 (427 yards, Par 4): The first shot must cross a 240-yard creek, with a water hazard near the green, requiring precision on the second shot.

Hole 9 (557 yards, Par 5): A narrow uphill Par 5, this hole has water hazards on both sides, making strategic play essential.

Hole 12 (688 yards, Par 5): A long Par 5 with a split fairway. The left side is safer but narrow, making it more challenging for those seeking to shorten their distance to the green.

Best Time to Play

November to April: This period offers the coolest weather and ideal conditions for golfing in the region.

Leisure and Family-Friendly Activities

Unique Experiences

Rainforest Trekking: Explore the rich biodiversity of Xishuangbanna as you trek through the surrounding tropical rainforest.

Fishing at the Clubhouse: Enjoy a relaxing fishing experience in the tranquil lakes near the clubhouse.

Family Activities

Mini Golf: A fun and accessible golfing experience for families and young players.

Tropical Plant Recognition: An educational experience for children to learn about the diverse flora of the region.

Transportation and Directions

Driving Directions

From Jinghong City Center: Take National Highway G214 and drive for 45 kilometers to reach the golf club.

Public Transportation

Airport Shuttle: Take the Airport Express Bus to the Menghai Bus Station and transfer to a shuttle that will take you directly to the golf course.

The Monbala International Golf Club offers a world-class golfing experience, set amidst the lush forests and tropical landscapes of Xishuangbanna. With its challenging layout, natural beauty, and first-rate amenities, it is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking both sport and relaxation in a unique setting. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer, this course promises an unforgettable experience. With its seamless blend of golf, culture, and natural beauty, Monbala International Golf Club truly lives up to its name as the “Beautiful Place”.