The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg hosted a remarkable event, bringing together over 100 golf enthusiasts for the highly anticipated first edition of the Khyber Cup. Held at the scenic Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar, the tournament provided a thrilling experience for participants and spectators alike. The event, which took place on September 20-21, 2024, showcased the talent of top golfers from across the nation, making it a prestigious competition in the Indian golf scene.

With stunning views of the Himalayas as the backdrop, the Royal Springs Golf Course offered a picturesque yet challenging setting for the players. The participants, representing various regions, competed fiercely in this inaugural event, leaving a lasting impression on both the attendees and organizers. The tournament was designed to not only promote golf in the region but also to highlight the unmatched beauty of Srinagar as a premier destination for sports tourism.

Sponsored by American Express and expertly managed by Rishi Narain Sports Marketing (RNSM), the Khyber Cup emerged as a significant milestone for golf in the region. The collaboration of these prominent brands ensured a well-organized, high-profile event that raised the standard of golf tournaments in India. This inaugural Khyber Cup marks the beginning of what is sure to become a prestigious annual competition, drawing attention from golfers nationwide.

With over 20 million tourists already visiting Kashmir and the growing demand for unique travel experiences, The Khyber Resort in Gulmarg has introduced an annual golf tournament to promote golf tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative aims to attract golf enthusiasts from across the country, offering them a chance to indulge in their passion while exploring the breathtaking beauty of the region. The tournament not only serves as a platform for competitive golf but also highlights the region’s potential as a top-tier destination for sports tourism.

Kashmir’s stunning natural landscapes, with their rolling hills and serene valleys, provide an ideal setting for world-class golf courses. This combination of pristine scenery and challenging courses makes the region a perfect destination for golfers looking to merge their love for the sport with a luxurious vacation. The annual golf tournament by The Khyber is set to enhance the region’s appeal, drawing more visitors who seek a unique blend of recreation and relaxation amidst Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty.

As hosts of the tournament The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg —India’s only luxury ski resort — offering world-class amenities and services, is committed to promoting sports and wellness in the region. It is proud to support The Khyber Cup, bringing together the finest in golf with the unparalleled beauty of Kashmir. “Our vision is to make this  a yearly Golf Tournament that is aspirational and meets the International standards of Golf Events,” says Khalil  Tramboo, Director,  Pinnacle Resorts, promoters of The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg.

Set against the breathtaking Zabarwan Range and the tranquil Dal Lake, the Royal Springs Golf Course stands out as one of India’s most scenic and demanding courses. Known for its captivating beauty and challenging terrain, it provides the perfect setting for competitive golf. The Khyber Cup, held at this iconic venue, became a true test of skill, perseverance, and sportsmanship, as golfers competed amidst this stunning backdrop.

The tournament spanned two days, with participants playing over 36 holes. The combined scores from both rounds determined the winners across various categories, adding an element of excitement and anticipation. The Khyber Cup not only celebrated the spirit of the game but also highlighted the allure of playing in one of India’s most picturesque golf destinations, leaving both players and spectators with an unforgettable experience.

Commenting on the inaugural edition of The Khyber Cup, Rishi Narain, Tournament Director & MD RNSM said, “The feedback from visitors was heartening as everyone enjoyed the challenge of the amazing Royal Springs Golf Course and the tournament surpassed their expectations. The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg has taken this important initiative to promote Kashmir in all its potential aspects and we are sure The Khyber Cup will grow to become a highly sought after annual tournament for players from around India, in the future.”

A Harmonious Blend of Golf and Nature

The Khyber Cup Golf Tournament was not just a competitive event; it was a celebration of golf, set against the breathtaking natural beauty of Kashmir. Players had the opportunity to showcase their skills on one of India’s most picturesque courses, while spectators enjoyed the sport in a truly stunning environment. The tournament captured the essence of combining a passion for golf with the serene backdrop of the region’s pristine landscapes.

Beyond the thrilling competition, participants were treated to a luxurious stay at the renowned Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa in Gulmarg. The event concluded in grand style with a Gala Dinner, featuring live musical performances, followed by the award ceremony at the resort. This memorable evening marked the successful close of the inaugural Khyber Cup, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

The tournament winners were as follows:

Visitors Category (All scores in Nett format):

Winner Div A: Vijay Kumar Jha – Score 145

Runner-up Div A: Amit Khansaheb – Score 146

Winner Div B: Anil Arora – Score 150 (won on tie-break)

Runner-up Div B: Vineet Rastogi – Score 150

RSGC Members’ Category:

Winner Div A: Shabbir Bhat – Score 143 (won on tie-break)

Runner-up Div A: Ghalib Shah – Score 143

Winner Div B: Zaman Sheikh – Score 144 (won on tie-break)

Runner-up Div B: Ishifaq Hussaini – Score 144

Ladies Winner:

Chandana Raju – Score 151

Special Contest Winners:

Closest to Pin: Bharat Sharma – 6 inches

Longest Drive: Ahmed Mir – 315 yards

Straightest Drive: DP Singh

Ladies Straightest Drive: Haya Trumboo

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