Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jan 6: The Pilikula Golf Course, located within Pilikula Nisargadhama at Vamanjoor, has evolved into a world-class sporting facility and is set to be formally inaugurated in its fully upgraded A-Plus category on January 9, 2026.
The golf course was originally started in 1999, soon after the formation of Pilikula Nisargadhama, with golf being included in its charter due to its close association with nature. Initially developed in a modest manner, the course and clubhouse were established on what was then barren laterite land. In 2011, the course was classified under the B and C categories.
Speaking on the journey of the course, the management stated that the redevelopment was driven by a collective vision to provide Mangaluru with world-class sporting infrastructure, as the city was perceived to be lagging behind in this sector. With this objective, the course was redesigned by an Australian firm, Pacific Coast Design, in accordance with international standards. The Pilikula Golf Course is now among the few floodlit golf courses on the west coast.
During the redevelopment, environmental balance was given priority. Although around 250 acacia trees were removed due to design changes, compensatory afforestation was undertaken. Nearly 7,500 saplings, including 147 varieties of mango trees and native Western Ghats species, have been planted within the premises.
The golf course, though situated on government-owned land, is managed by a joint committee comprising six government officials and six private members. The deputy commissioner serves as the president of the committee. The redevelopment was largely funded without waiting for government grants. The course was temporarily closed in 2024, and the upgraded version was completed within a year through member contributions and special patron memberships.
Water management has been addressed through an agreement with the Mangaluru City Corporation, utilising treated water from the Pachanady treatment plant. The fully automated irrigation system uses approximately 6.5 lakh litres per day and also aids groundwater recharge in nearby areas.
The facility now attracts not only local golfers but also affiliated players, foreign nationals, and tourists. Golf, being an international sport, is also viewed as a lifestyle factor that influences industrial and corporate investment decisions. The presence of a world-class golf course is considered a positive factor in attracting top executives and industries to Mangaluru.
With state-of-the-art infrastructure, modern maintenance equipment, a golf academy, and employment opportunities for nearly 200 people, the Pilikula Golf Course has emerged as a major sporting landmark.
The management has invited the public to visit the facility during its inauguration on January 9 and experience what is being described as a new crown of pride for Mangaluru, Tulu Nadu, and Karnataka.