Pune's Weekend Revolution: Golf Simulators Replace Traditional Outings

For countless residents of Pune, weekends have long followed a predictable pattern—dining at restaurants, catching the latest film releases, or embarking on short scenic drives. However, a fresh and innovative activity is steadily making its way onto the weekend agenda of many Punekars. Increasingly, individuals are choosing to reserve a bay at a golf simulator, dedicating a couple of hours to tee off with friends in a high-tech, indoor setting.

A New Weekend Hobby Takes Shape

Sanket Kodolikar, who serves as the business operations head at a prominent real estate firm, finds that simulator golf seamlessly integrates into his weekend schedule. "A complete round at a conventional golf course can easily consume half a day," he explains. "At a simulator, I can enjoy a full game and still have ample time for other weekend plans." This sentiment is echoed by Shaunak Thakkar, a data operations and system manager at a home decor company. What began as a one-time experiment quickly evolved into a regular routine for him and his circle.

"Our initial visit was purely out of curiosity, but we found ourselves returning repeatedly," Thakkar shares. "It's a perfect blend—you play, engage in conversation, and indulge in friendly competition. It offers a refreshing change from the usual weekend options."

Golf Meets Social Plans

The growing appeal of golf simulators lies in their unique combination of attributes. For many enthusiasts, this activity is:

Active yet not exhausting, providing physical engagement without the fatigue of outdoor sports.
Social but not overly noisy, fostering interaction in a controlled environment.
More engaging than typical cafe or movie outings, offering a novel experience.

At iGolf Pune, founder Nilesh Shirke observes that the majority of bookings cluster around weekends. "People approach it similarly to bowling or arcade games," Shirke notes. "They play a round, order some food, and simply enjoy quality time together. Traditional golf can often feel serious and physically demanding. The simulator version maintains a lighthearted and accessible atmosphere."

Moreover, the technology embedded in these simulators tracks every shot meticulously, providing immediate feedback even to novices. "When you witness the ball's trajectory on the screen, you gain a deeper understanding of the game," adds Khushal, an enthusiast. "The learning curve is surprisingly swift, often clicking faster than participants anticipate."

Accessible and High-Tech Experience

Kushal Shinagare, owner and coach at Stinger Golf Club, emphasizes the accessibility of simulator golf. "No prior knowledge of golf is necessary before arriving," he assures. Beginners receive instruction on proper club grip and the fundamentals of executing a swing. Introductory sessions typically include equipment provision and basic guidance.

The setup is ingeniously designed: participants use authentic clubs and balls, but instead of navigating a vast outdoor course, they play into a large screen that visually displays the exact path and outcome of each shot. High-speed sensors meticulously track the club's movement and the ball's launch, with the system instantly recreating the shot on screen. Players receive real-time data on:

Distance covered
Directional accuracy
Various other performance metrics

This fusion of traditional sport with cutting-edge technology is redefining weekend leisure in Pune, offering a sophisticated yet approachable alternative that caters to both seasoned players and curious newcomers alike.