The tournament is open to golfers from all over the world. HSBC Premier customers from Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and India are also expected to take part in the tournament.

SriLankan Airlines spokesman Chandana de Silva said: "This year the line-up promises to be very challenging and we are sure to have a tough battle for the top honours."

Golfers with best nett handicap score played under the Stableford system will win a trophy and a chance to fly SriLankan Airlines in business class to selected destinations, while other category winners will get return air tickets.

David Griffiths, the chief executive officer of HSBC in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, said the winner would also get the opportunity to witness the HSBC Champions Tournament, which will be played in Shanghai, China, in November.

Registered players will get exclusive tour packages from SriLankan Airlines, which includes airfare, airport transfers, accommodation, shuttle service to and from the golf course, caddy and green fees and an invitation to the gala awards dinner on the final day of the tournament.

Nuwara Eliya, or "Little England" as it is also known, lies in the central hills of Sri Lanka, 6,200 feet above sea level and 160km from Colombo. It is one of the most scenic areas of the island with wonderful views and a visual introduction to the tea country of Sri Lanka. The 117-year-old, 5550-metre, 18-hole, par-70 course, which is in the heart of the town, was built in 1889 and has been hosting premier tournaments since 1891. The course has been hailed as one of the most naturally scenic in the world.

For reservations and more information see www.srilankangolf.com.