To fit a round into the afternoon of December 31 and reach the Tha Phae Gate countdown at night, Summit Green Valley is the most practical. It is about 15 km, or 20 minutes, from Chiang Mai city and is set up for both twilight and night golf. North Hill and Gassan Legacy are the other night-capable choices.
To pair a round with the airport, North Hill Golf Club (about 15 km from the airport) and Gassan Legacy (about 25 km) fit. North Hill's restaurant stays open until 22:30 for dinner after an arrival-day evening round, and Gassan Legacy is a 2014 course that allows carts on the fairway.
The day after the countdown, Mae Jo Golf Club north of the city is easy going: about 20 km from town, bookable from one golfer, with a restaurant open until 22:00. If you want 27 holes, Alpine (about 11,238 yards) is the candidate.
For groups of three or more, Lanna Golf Club is worth a look: a 27-hole army course from 1974 that books for three or more golfers on weekdays and weekends.
Chiang Mai nights are cool at year-end, so night rounds call for a light jacket. Last night tee times and lit sections change by date, so confirm before booking. New Year week sets the year's highest green fees.
Cart conditions, minimum party size and rain-cancellation rules change by date. Confirm final terms on the current listing before booking.