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Gunung Raya Golf Resort, Langkawi, Malaysia ------- by Andrew Ng
On what was once a rubber plantation, renowned American golf architect Max Wexler was tasked with turning these 300 acres in the foothills of panoramic Gunung Raya into a magnificent international- standard golf course.
Today, you will experience beautiful rolling greenery, panoramic tees and expansive fairways interspaced with sand traps, lovely water features, altogether a refreshing golfing challenge that will bring you back over and over again to play at Gunung Raya when you are in Langkawi.
Unlike some golf courses where beginners have less of a pleasant opportunity to play fun golf, Gunung Raya was designed for both the high handicapper holiday golfer as well as the low handicap seasoned player. There’s enough excitement whatever your level. If you find it too easy, move back to the Championship tees (black) and suddenly you will find that it requires a skillful level of golfing despite your mastery of the game.
This review was written based on the blue tees.
Hole 1, Par 4, Index 11, 343 meters
The first hole is a great teaser for the golfing treat that unfolds as you warm up. With 2 bunkers on the right with mounds around, the better tee shot would be slightly left but, beware not to stray too far there as a pond there is within range. The green is large and it is not too difficult to make par here if you had a decent tee shot.
Hole 2, Par5, 499 meters
With a drain and two water hazards on the right and the trees and OB on the left, some pressure as you tee off on this par 5 where staying on the fairway is more important than length.At the front and right side, the elongated bunker there will test your accuracy on the approach shot to the green. Better to aim left centre of the green than to go for the flag if it is set on the right side of the green.
Hole 3, Par4, 354 meters
On this hole, the water hazards are on the right and cuts in to catch bad shots about 85 metres before the green. There are also two bunkers on each side of the green making the approach shot quite tricky with a mid to long iron after a drive of 200 odd metres.
Hole 4, Par 3, 194 meters
This a valley hole where you may debate the accuracy of the distance markers. Better to be pin high than short on this green as the undulations on a long uphill putt will make it difficult and could turn disastrous.
Hole 5, Par 4, 360 meters
The second most difficult hole of this first nine. You need an accurate drive off the tee to avoid the bunker on the right and growing trees amongst the rough of this fairway. Some 50 metres before the green, water cuts in so you need to carry this and yet not overclub the green. A bunker awaits at the rear.
Hole 6, Par 4, 307 meters
While it is a short par 4 at 307 metres, the tree in the centre of the fairway is disturbing and forces you to go either left or right of the middle. Some would say aim for the tree and hope to miss it. On both sides, the fairway is flanked by more trees so an accurate tee shot that will avoid the tree and stay on the fairway is the key to a relatively easy par here.
Hole 7, Par 3, 207 meters
The longer of the two par 3s on this nine, the major difficulty here is the two-tiered green requiring precision in your choice of clubs. 3 putts or more is not uncommon if you land on the wrong tier.
Hole 8, Par 5, 460 meters
High handicappers may be disturbed by the drain that cuts across the fairway after the ladies tee. On this fairway, there are 3 bunkers on the left side and a long bunker on the right side that threaten if you should roll into them. This hole should otherwise be a cinch for the low handicappers.
Hole 9, Par 4, 383 meters
Off the tee, you will need to carry 190 metres to cross a stream that cuts across the fairway. After the drive, the approach shot to the green is uphill. Getting close is important if you want to par this hole. At a handicap index of 1, it is rated the most difficult hole on this course.
Hole 10, Par 5, 500 meters
The dogleg right hole has water running the entire length on the left. Those considering a short cut to the right will have the hill to contend with. There are bunkers galore on this hole and when you arrive, the large green being quite flat will give you good opportunity to score well on this hole.
Hole 11 Par 3, 158 meters
At 158 metres, this is the shortest par three on the course. High handicappers and beginners will have the lake intimidating them although it’s not in play. At the green, bunkers on each side will test your accuracy from the tee.
Hole 12, Par 4, 397 meters
This par 4 is challenging with its length and hazards testing your competence right off the tee. For the beginners, the water right in front of the tee demands steadying of your nerves. On the right, OB and some water awaits the slice. From the fairway, a drain that cuts across the 150 and 100 metres distance will punish any shot that does not take flight towards. The green is well guarded with hazards on both sides. Bogey is respectable here and par is very good.
Hole 13, Par 4, 366 meters
While shorter than the 12th, this tough hole has the border fence running all the way on the right . On the left, more danger lurks with the hazard cutting in. Accuracy is more important than length here and the green has water on both sides and at the front and back.
Hole 14, Par 4, 358 meters
The 14th with rolling hills and hazards both sides requires an accurate tee shot. The green is small and has bunkers on left and right. This is a hole to pause and take in the lovely scenery.
Hole 15, Par 5, 489 meters
The fairway here is undulating and there are various mounds on the left side. At the 300 metre mark, the stream cuts across to pose difficulties if your tee shot has been weak. On the front ride site of the green, the pond requires you to play to the left for safety. On a recent visit, a class act golfer on my flight went straight for the pin but fell short and into the water. He would have had an exceptional round if not for the disaster at this hole. If you manage the terrain well here, a par is very achievable.
Hole 16, Par 4, 359 meters
This hole is narrow with the water on the left and bunkers on the right teasing you as you stand on the tee. A shot to the centre is called for. From the fairway you will see that approach to the green is narrow with a dogleg turn to the left. The green has a bunker on its right .
Hole 17, Par 3, 213 meters
The longest par 3 on this course, it is the most difficult of the par3s. To par this hole, a driver may be appropriate off the tee to get at the uphill green which has bunkers on its side.
Hole 18, Par 4, 423 meters
At 423 metres and uphill, it is perhaps an impossible hole for anyone to get on in two unless you are a long hitter here. There is a mild dog-leg to the right where bunkers await on the fairway and greenside. This is surely a great closing hole to any round when all bets are doubled or more.
Golfing facilities include: The simple Club Café offers a limited choice of local cuisine. Its open air terrace is capable of hosting small functions and a nice place to relax after the round of golf.Rates | Operating Hours | 9 holes | 18holes | | First Tee-Off | 7.00 am | 7.00 am | | Last Tee-Off | 5.30 pm | 3.30 pm | | Green Fees: | RM150 | RM200 | | Buggy Rental (twin share): | RM30 | RM60 | | Compulsory Golfers Insurance: | RM3 | | Driving Range | | Operating Hours: | 7.00 am - 7.00 pm | | 50 Balls | RM 5.00 | | 100 Balls | RM 10.00 | | Golf Equipment Rental: | | Golf Sets | RM 40.00 (Deposit RM 100.00 that is refundable) | | Golf Shoes | RM 10.00 (Per Pair) | | Golf Clubs (3 Pcs) | RM 15.00 (For Driving Range Usage) |
Getting ThereBy Road
For those heading from the mainland to Langkawi, you should head over to the ferry jetty terminal in Kuala Kedah or the one in Kuala Perlis. Exit at Alor Setar Selatan if you're on the North South Expressway and follow the ample signages along the way. The journey from Kuala Lumpur will take approximately 6 hours.
Private car parks in the vicinity of the jetties are available at the cost of RM6 to RM8 per day. Vehicles can also be cargo-shipped over to the island at a cost RM160 (price includes the return trip). However, your vehicle can only be claimed at the Langkawi Port in Tanjung Lembung the following day.
There are also bus services daily from all major towns in Malaysia and Singapore. Please contact your local bus companies for details.
By Rail
Travelling by train will give you the opportunity to catch the views of the Malaysian country side. For those looking at a relaxing journey, the train is definitely an interesting alternative. The Malaysian national railway line, Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) starts from as far south as Singapore, passing through the interchange at the Kuala Lumpur Central Station, all the way to the Alor Setar train station. From Alor Setar, a taxi ride to the Kuala Kedah jetty terminal will cost you approximately RM16. A taxi to the Kuala Perlis terminal will cost you approximately RM12.
By Sea For those of you travelling in by road, there are 2 ferry terminals available for you to make the crossing to the island, Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis. There are also terminals in Thailand at Satun and Penang.
| From | Fare (RM) | Operation Hours | Frequency | | K. Perlis | 12.00 (A) 7.00 (C) | 0700 - 1900 | Every 30 mins | | K. Kedah | 15.00 (A) 9.00 (C) | 0700 - 1900 | Every 30 mins | | Satun | 20.00 (A) 14.00 (C) | 4 Trips daily | 0930, 1100, 1500, 1700 | | Penang | 35.00 (A) 18.00 (C) | 1 Trip daily | 0830 |
(A) indicates adult ticket prices.
(C) indicates child concessions.
By Air
With 3 flights coming out of Penang and 5 out of Kuala Lumpur daily, air travel provides a fast and convenient way for you to get to the island. Airlines servicing the Langkawi route are:
Asia Pacific Airlines Malaysia
Tel: 04-955 0835
Pelangi Air
Tel: 04-955 2621
Malaysian Airlines System (MAS)
Tel: 04-966 6622
On the IslandVehicle Rentals
The extensive network of good roads provide easy accessibility to every part of the island. Car rentals are available at the Airport or at Kuah town at the cost of RM50.00 to RM 120.00 per day, depending on the age and model of the vehicle; and motorcycles at a cost of RM20 to RM30 per day. Most of the travel agents at the seaport and airport have car rentals as part of their service. Prices are cheap because Langkawi is a duty free island and that includes motor vehicles. Navigation is quite easy as the roads are reasonably well sign-posted and free road maps are freely available.
Rental Companies would include:
Kasina : 04 9555999
Gerteknik: 04 9665981
Mahamas: 04 9551668BRF : 04 9558919
Zarminda: 04 9661550
Taxis and Buses
Taxis and buses are ample, but make sure that you use only the licensed taxis identifiable by their yellow roof signage. It would also be wise to check taxi-fares at the terminals to prevent your being overcharged as charges are not metered.
Taxi rates are at controlled pricing as published by the Ministry of Tourism. Our recommendation is to hire a car if you are traveling about especially to golf courses. Taxis will cost you more when you are moving about.
Contact Details
Gunung Raya Golf Resort
Jalan Air Hangat, Kisap, 07000 Langkawi,
Kedah Darulaman,
Malaysia.
Tel : ( 6 )04-966 8148 / 4578
Fax : ( 6 )04-966 8149
Other Golf Courses
1) Datai Golf Course
Many insist that this is the best in Langkawi because of its cool rainforest setting. It’s no doubt a challenging course and should be played if you are in Langkawi; at least once.
Tel: 04 9592620
2) Langkawi Golf Club
The oldest but less popular and affordable golf course which is worth a visit if you want to experience another venue within Langkawi.
Tel: 04 9666187
Other “Must Do” Things in Langkawi.
Nature / Jungle Walk & kayaking
Call Irshad: 012 5846184
Peter : 012 4564750
Mangrove Trip
Bidin : 012 4762055
Cable Car Ride
There is now a superb cable car service at Gunung Mat Cincang.
Tel: 04 9594225
Cruising the islands and / or fishing.
a) Cruising
Call: Sunset Crystal Yachts : 012 4087866;
Stardust: 012 4050649;
Sunsail: 04 9665869;
b) Yacht Charters
Call: Sunsail: 04 9665869;
Royal Langkawi Yacht Club: 04 9664078;
Simpson Marine: 04 9668188
C) Fishing - Addy 012 5535426;
Dayang Biru 04 9552990
Pulau Payar Excursions / Dives / Pulau Payar
East Marine Holidays, 04 9663966;
Coral Island, 04 9661368;
Langkawi Coral, 04 9667318;
ProDive, 04 9553739
Malay Village
Check out Bon Ton Resort – Pantai Cenang where there are 7 fully restored antique Malay houses from around Malaysia. You can check in to stay too or just have dinner at its lovely restaurant.
Spas / Massage
At Datai, Balinese styled Spa;
at Berjaya, Japanese styled Spa;
at the Andaman, Balinese styled Spa;
Sheraton Langkawi, Balinese styled Spa;
Tanjung Rhu, Malays styled Spa;
Kampong Tok Senik, Aryuveda.
Upmarket Resorts to immerse self and getaway The Datai and the Andaman – Rainforest settings,
Tanjung Rhu, in the mangrove and The Four Seasons which is just opening early 05.
Local styled Malay food
– check out Siti Fatimah and B & Z Sempoy.
Night Life
On a comparative scale with other International Resorts, Langkawi’s night life is pretty tame and low-keyed and some people do like that. If you do insist that you want some fun, there’s some to be had at the following localities as of Jan 2005
Discos / Music Pubs
Some Place Else in the Sheraton Perdana, Kuah,
Tel: 04 9662020
Ground Zero in the Awana Porto Malai, Tel: 04 9551901
Raggae Beach Café – Live Band at Pantai Cenang
Coco Jam Disco at Pantai Tengah, Tel: 04 9551511
Also Live Bands at the Pelangi Beach Resort’s Tepian Cenang Fun Pub and at Mutiara Burau Bay’s Seashell’s Café.
Karaoke Places (with hostesses)
Top Ten Disco & Karaoke Lounge, 04 9660545 & 012 4880638 (Juliana)
Beach KTV at Hotel Grand Continental, 04 9671689 & 012 4730713 (Joan)
Beach Hangouts
If that’s your scene, try out the Raggae Beach Café, Red Tomato Splash Beach Café, Oasis, Tai Fung and Beach Garden Resort all at Pantai Cenang.
Flying School
The Langkawi Aerospace Training Centre at 04 9668000 may be a nice place to learn how to fly
Horseback enthusiasts may want to check out the Mutiara Burau Bay Equestrian Centre Tel: 019 437 9783
There are many other things to do in Langkawi which will be described and promoted in the official brochures of Tourism Malaysia and various other travel brochures and websites. We have chosen to list out what we see as perhaps more in the interest of our users on this website.
Some Useful Telephone Numbers:
Emergency Services: 999
Police: 04 9666222
Hospital: 04 9663333
Joe’s Pharmacy: 04 9660180
Telephone Enquiry: 108
International Operator: 103
Post Office: 04 9667271
Customs Office at Airport: 04 9553580
Malaysia Airlines: 04 9553580
Air Asia: 04 9667750
Langkawi’s International Airport: 04 9551311
Taxi in Kuah Town: 04 9665249
Taxi at Airport: 04 9551800 Tourism Malaysia Office: 04 9667789
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