Shandur Polo Festival Tour

• Festivals

Shandur Polo Festival Tour – 9 Days of Adventure, Culture & World’s Highest Polo Ground

Book your Shandur Polo Festival Tour with Pakistan Tours Packages. Enjoy the vibrant culture, mountain scenery, and historic polo event at the Roof of the World, it’s a grand celebration of Pashtun and Gilgit-Baltistani culture featuring folk music, dance, traditional food, and local crafts. Tourists from around the world travel to witness this unique blend of sports, culture, and mountain adventure.

The Shandur Polo Festival Tour in Pakistan is one of the most exciting cultural and adventure experiences in the northern areas. Held every year at the world’s highest polo ground, located at Shandur Pass (3,700 meters above sea level), this festival brings together the traditional rivalry between the teams of Gilgit and Chitral. Known as the “Roof of the World,” Shandur offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and green meadows — a dream destination for adventure and culture lovers.

During the Shandur Polo Festival, visitors not only enjoy thrilling polo matches played in their purest form — freestyle and without rules — but also immerse themselves in a truly cultural adventure. Moreover, the energy of the players, the sound of the crowd, and the dramatic mountain backdrop make each moment unforgettable. In fact, this event is far more than a simple sports competition; rather, it’s a living tradition that brings together the people of Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan in a friendly yet passionate rivalry. Furthermore, travelers can witness how centuries-old customs blend with modern enthusiasm in one spectacular celebration.

What You’ll See and Do at the Shandur Polo Festival, Cultural Performances and Local Music Gilgit-Baltistan

In addition, our Shandur Polo Festival Tour in Pakistan includes guided travel from Islamabad through the scenic valleys of Kaghan, Gilgit, and Chitral, ensuring a journey filled with natural beauty and cultural discovery. Along the way, you will explore the breathtaking landscapes of Hunza Valley, the crystal-clear waters of Phandar Lake, and the colorful traditions of the Kalash Valleys. Besides, each destination offers unique opportunities for photography, interaction with locals, and insight into northern Pakistan’s vibrant heritage.

Similarly, whether you are a photographer seeking perfect light, a culture enthusiast eager to learn local stories, or a nature lover craving serenity, this festival delivers something special for everyone. Indeed, the journey itself becomes as memorable as the festival. However, the real magic happens when the polo matches begin under the vast Himalayan sky, surrounded by cheering spectators and echoing drums. Consequently, every traveler leaves with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of Pakistan’s traditions. Ultimately, the Shandur Polo Festival Tour offers not just an event, but an experience that connects adventure, culture, and nature in perfect harmony.

Join Pakistan Tours Packages to experience the Shandur Polo Festival Tour — where adventure meets tradition at the top of the world!

Shandur Polo Festival Tour – Key Facts

• Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

• Start/End Point: Islamabad

• Festival Dates: Usually held from July 7–9 annually

• Group Size: Small group tours (6–12 travelers)

• Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses & festival camping

• Transportation: Private 4×4 jeeps and tourist vans

• Tour Type: Cultural, Adventure, Festival

How to Visit the Shandur Polo Festival – Complete Travel Guide

The Shandur Polo Festival is, indeed, one of Pakistan’s most iconic cultural events, and it is held every year from July 7–9 at Shandur Pass, the highest polo ground in the world (3,700 meters / 12,139 feet). Moreover, this festival stands out because it combines adventure, heritage, and natural beauty all in one breathtaking location. In fact, it is not just a sports event; rather, it is a grand celebration of life, culture, and tradition. Furthermore, the high-altitude setting provides visitors with magnificent Himalayan views, while the matches themselves reflect bravery, teamwork, and passion. Consequently, the Shandur Polo Festival has become a symbol of pride for both Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Additionally, what makes it even more fascinating is the unique blend of freestyle polo, folk music, and local festivities that accompany the main event. Similarly, travelers can enjoy cultural dances, traditional food, and handicraft exhibitions. Besides, the energy of the crowd and the sound of drums echoing through the mountains make the experience unforgettable. Therefore, whether you’re drawn by the thrill of polo or the serenity of the landscape, Shandur offers something for everyone. Indeed, adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike find it a truly memorable journey.

Experience the Legendary Shandur Polo Festival – Where Culture Meets Adventure in the Heart of Pakistan

However, attending the festival requires planning and preparation because of its remote location. Hence, knowing the best routes, accommodations, and weather conditions is essential. After all, this is not just a regular event—it’s an adventure above the clouds. Consequently, visitors are encouraged to acclimatize properly and travel with local experts. In conclusion, the Shandur Polo Festival is not merely a sporting competition; instead, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects people, cultures, and nature in perfect harmony. So, whether you’re a cultural traveler, photographer, or adventurer, ultimately, this guide will help you discover everything you need to know to attend the Shandur Polo Festival safely and meaningfully.

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📅 When is the Shandur Polo Festival Held?

• Dates: Annually from July 7 to July 9

• Duration: 3 days of polo matches, music, dance, and celebration

• Main Event: Final match between teams from Chitral and Gilgit on July 9

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📍 Where is the Shandur Polo Festival Held?

• Location: Shandur Top (Shandur Pass), between Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

• Altitude: 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) – the highest polo ground on Earth

• Nearby Towns: Mastuj, Laspur, Phander, Gupis, Chitral, and Gilgit

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🚗 How to Get to Shandur Polo Festival

✅ From Islamabad:

Option 1: Islamabad → Chitral → Shandur

• By Air: Fly to Chitral Airport (1-hour flight from Islamabad; subject to weather)

• By Road: Drive via Swat, Upper Dir, and Lowari Tunnel to Chitral (12–14 hours)

• From Chitral, drive to Shandur via Mastuj (8–10 hours on rugged terrain)

Option 2: Islamabad → Gilgit → Shandur

• By Air: Fly to Gilgit Airport (1-hour from Islamabad)

• By Road: Drive via Naran or Karakoram Highway (16–18 hours)

• From Gilgit, travel to Phander and then to Shandur (6–8 hours drive)

Important: A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended due to rough and unpaved mountain roads.

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🛏️ Where to Stay at the Shandur Festival

• Camping on-site at Shandur Pass – most travelers camp in tents organized by tour operators or the local government.

• Basic campsites include sleeping tents, kitchen tents, and toilets.

• Nearest hotels/guesthouses are in Mastuj, Phander, Gupis, or Chitral, but are far from the main event.

Tip: Bring warm sleeping bags and layered clothing – it gets very cold at night even in July.

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🎒 What to Pack for Shandur Polo Festival

• Warm clothes (nights are cold at high altitude)

• Sunscreen, sunglasses & hat (strong UV at high elevation)

• Trekking or hiking shoes

• Sleeping bag (even if tents are provided)

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Camera and power bank

• Snacks & personal medications

• Reusable water bottle

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Related Festival Tours in Pakistan

If you’re inspired by the Shandur Polo Festival Tour and wish to explore more of Pakistan’s cultural and scenic beauty, consider these equally unforgettable adventures:

• Chilam Joshi Festival Tour – Celebrate the colorful spring festival of the Kalash people with traditional music, dances, and rituals in the valleys of Chitral.
• Uchal Festival Tour – Experience the harvest celebrations of the Kalasha community, filled with joy, local traditions, and cultural harmony.
• Choimus Festival Tour – Witness the winter solstice festivities in Kalash Valley, where the Kalasha people welcome the new year with music, dance, and colorful attire.
• Hunza Blossom Tour – Discover Hunza Valley in full bloom, where spring colors the mountains with apricot and cherry blossoms.
• Explore North Pakistan Tour – Journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Hunza, Gilgit, and Chitral, uncovering Pakistan’s natural and cultural treasures.
• Kalash & Hunza Bike Tour – A thrilling motorbike adventure through the valleys of Kalash, Gilgit, and Hunza — perfect for adventure seekers.

Each of these tours showcases Pakistan’s diverse culture, scenic beauty, and vibrant traditions — making them the perfect companions to your Shandur Polo Festival Tour experience.

🙏 Cultural Etiquette & Tips

• Respect local traditions and elders

• Ask permission before taking close-up photos of people

• Be mindful of the environment – leave no trace

• Stay hydrated and pace yourself to avoid altitude sickness

• Watch matches from designated viewing areas for safety

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✅ Should You Join a Tour or Travel Independently?

🚌 Group Tour Advantages:

• Easy logistics (transport, permits, camping, meals)

• Local guides for cultural insight

• Access to better camping arrangements

• Safer in case of road or weather disruptions

🚙 Independent Travel:

• Requires experience with remote, high-altitude travel

• Must arrange own permits, camp, and food

• Ideal for seasoned travelers or backpackers

Recommendation: A guided tour is the safest and most comfortable way to visit Shandur Festival, especially for first-time travelers to the region.

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🌟 Why Visit the Shandur Polo Festival?

• Watch freestyle polo at the highest ground on Earth

• Witness tribal rivalry between Gilgit and Chitral

• Enjoy traditional music and folk dance in a stunning natural amphitheater

• Camp under the stars surrounded by snow-capped peaks

• Experience authentic local culture, untouched by mass tourism

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🧭 Final Tips for Visiting Shandur Festival

• Book early – camping space is limited

• Prepare for high altitude – acclimatize in Chitral or Gilgit before heading to Shandur

• Carry cash – there are no ATMs or mobile signals at the top

• Stay flexible – mountain weather and road conditions can change plans

• Travel with a sense of adventure and cultural respect

 

Highlights of the Shandur Polo Festival Tour

• Live Polo Matches at the World’s Highest Polo Ground (3,700m)

• 🏔️ Camp under the stars in Shandur surrounded by the majestic mountains

• 🏞️ Explore Chitral, Kalash & Phander Valleys – culture, color, and natural beauty

• 🎶 Traditional music and folk dance performances during the festival

• 📷 Photography paradise – landscapes, horses, and local tribal life

• 🛣️ Epic road journey through the Hindu Kush and Karakoram

 

Polo is an equestrian ball sport played between two teams on horseback. Each seeks to score goals by hitting a small ball into the opponent’s goal, using a long mallet. This equestrian sport is renowned for its blend of speed, strategy and elegance. It requires exceptional coordination between rider and mount

 

Tour Essentials – Shandur Polo Festival Tour

• Warm clothing (night temperatures can drop at Shandur)

• Comfortable hiking shoes

• Sun protection (sunscreen, glasses, hat)

• Camera & power bank

• Personal medication

• Light backpack for day use

• Respect for local traditions and cultural etiquette

 

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION	Islamabad, Islamabad
WEAR	Comfortable clothing, hiking boots, hat, jacket and sunscreen.
INCLUDED	Professional Guide 3 Time Meals Hotel Accommodation AC Luxury Transportation
NOT INCLUDED	International Tickets