Wednesday 05 / August / 2026
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir strengthened its position as a growing destination for sports tourism with the successful hosting of the JK Open 2026, organised by the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department at the picturesque Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar.
The prestigious tournament brought together nearly 130 professional golfers, including around 20 international players, making it one of the largest golfing events held in the Union Territory. Many participants were visiting Kashmir for the first time and praised the Valley's scenic beauty, world-class golfing facilities and warm hospitality.
Nestled against the Zabarwan mountain range and overlooking Dal Lake, the Royal Springs Golf Course impressed players with its immaculate fairways, challenging layout and spectacular surroundings.
A professional golfer from Malaysia described the venue as one of the finest he had experienced.
"The turf is excellent and the ambience is simply awesome. Playing golf in such spectacular surroundings is a unique experience. Kashmir has everything needed to become an international golfing destination," he said.
Professional golfer Sabtak Talwar from New Delhi commended the tournament's organisation and infrastructure.
"The course is maintained to international standards and the overall infrastructure is impressive. Everything, from logistics to hospitality, has been managed professionally. It has been a wonderful experience. I will definitely return to Kashmir with my family," Talwar said.
Young golfer Kartik said the dramatic backdrop of the Zabarwan mountains made the championship especially memorable.
"Competing with the Zabarwan range surrounding the course gives a completely different feeling. It is difficult to describe the beauty in words. This is certainly one of the most memorable venues I have played at," he said.
Several golfers noted that Kashmir had exceeded their expectations and said they would recommend the destination to fellow golfers and tourists alike.
"We came here for golf, but we are leaving with memories of a beautiful place. Once we return home, we will definitely encourage our friends and family members to visit Kashmir—not only to play golf but also to experience its unmatched beauty, culture and hospitality," participants said.
Officials associated with the championship said the event is expected to provide a significant boost to sports tourism by showcasing Kashmir to leading professional golfers from India and abroad.
The organisers also appreciated the support extended by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, saying its efficient arrangements and hospitality ensured the smooth conduct of the tournament and reflected the government's commitment to promoting Kashmir as a global destination for golf and adventure tourism.
They expressed confidence that the success of the JK Open 2026 would pave the way for more national and international sporting events in the Valley, further enhancing Kashmir's reputation as a safe, vibrant and world-class venue for sporting excellence while giving an added impetus to the tourism sector.
