Nestled between the breathtaking mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, the Shandur Polo Festival is one of Pakistan’s most iconic cultural and sporting events. Every year in July, this three-day festival draws crowds from around the world to witness the highest-altitude polo tournament on the planet, held at 12,500 feet above sea level.
At Adventure Travel Pakistan, we offer exclusive, all-inclusive tour packages to help you experience this incredible event in comfort, safety, and cultural immersion.
The Origin and History of the Shandur Polo Festival
The roots of polo in the region stretch back centuries. Known locally as the “Game of Kings,” polo has long been a symbol of pride and honor for the people of Gilgit and Chitral. The first official Shandur Polo Festival was organized in 1936 by the British Political Agent, Major Evelyn Cobb, who saw the potential of bringing together rival mountain kingdoms for a friendly, yet competitive game.
Since then, the festival has evolved into a celebrated tradition—fostering unity, cultural exchange, and national pride.
Where Tradition Meets Altitude: Shandur Pass
Shandur Pass, often referred to as the “Roof of the World,” is where this unique sporting event takes place. The high-altitude plateau transforms into a natural stadium surrounded by glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and alpine meadows. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a nature lover, the Shandur Polo Festival offers something for everyone.
Adventure Travel Pakistan ensures your journey through this rugged terrain is comfortable and memorable. From 4×4 transportation to experienced local guides, we handle every detail so you can enjoy the magic of Shandur.
What to Expect at the Shandur Polo Festival
The atmosphere at Shandur is electric. The polo matches are fast, aggressive, and unregulated by modern rules—played in the traditional “freestyle” format that emphasizes skill, courage, and teamwork. Matches are held between top teams from Gilgit and Chitral, with the final match on the third day drawing the largest crowds.
In addition to polo, the festival features:
- Traditional music and dance performances by Chitrali and Gilgiti artists
- Food stalls offering local delicacies such as chapshuro, lamb kebabs, and yak meat
- Handicraft bazaars where visitors can buy handmade wool products, jewelry, and wooden carvings
- Cultural tents set up for locals and tourists to interact and share stories
- Horse shows, parades, and sometimes even paragliding or trout fishing for the adventurous
The Shandur Polo Festival is more than a sporting event—it’s a cultural celebration of Pakistan’s highland tribes and their centuries-old traditions.
How to Reach the Shandur Polo Festival
Reaching Shandur is a journey in itself, one that takes you through some of Pakistan’s most dramatic landscapes. Adventure Travel Pakistan offers multiple route options depending on your preferences:
Via Gilgit
One of the most scenic routes is from Gilgit, which is accessible by air from Islamabad or by road via the Karakoram Highway. From Gilgit, our tour proceeds through Gupis, Phandar Lake, and the breathtaking Ghizer Valley before reaching Shandur.
Via Chitral
Another popular route is through Chitral, reached via the Lowari Tunnel from Dir in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This path takes travelers through the rugged terrain of Mastuj and Laspur, offering a more adventurous experience.
Regardless of the route, Adventure Travel Pakistan provides 4×4 vehicles, experienced drivers, and comfortable accommodations to make the trip enjoyable.
Adventure Travel Pakistan Tour Packages for Shandur Polo Festival
We offer three well-crafted packages to cater to different types of travelers.
1. Classic Cultural Tour (7 Days)
Ideal for families and casual travelers, this tour includes:
- Round-trip transport from Islamabad or Gilgit
- Hotel and tent accommodations
- Guided sightseeing in Ghizer Valley or Chitral
- Festival access passes
- Meals and cultural activities
This package offers a balance between festival participation and scenic exploration.
2. Adventure Trekker Package (10 Days)
For those who love the outdoors, this package includes:
- Trekking from Phandar to Shandur Pass
- Overnight camping in mountain meadows
- Fishing opportunities in Shandur Lake
- Access to the entire polo festival
- Bonfire dinners and traditional music nights
This package is tailored for thrill-seekers looking for a more immersive experience in nature.
3. Luxury Polo Experience (5–7 Days)
Designed for comfort seekers and international tourists, this package includes:
- Chartered flights to Gilgit or Chitral
- Premium tents with heating and bedding
- Private viewing deck at the festival
- Chef-cooked local cuisine
- Cultural meet-and-greets with team captains and local dignitaries
All packages are fully customizable based on your time, budget, and interests.
Best Time to Visit and Weather Conditions
The Shandur Polo Festival usually takes place from July 7 to July 9 each year. July offers the most accessible weather window, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C and cool nights averaging around 5°C.
Though the weather is generally clear and pleasant during the day, nights can be cold due to the altitude. Adventure Travel Pakistan provides all necessary camping gear and offers a pre-departure guide to help you pack appropriately.
Packing List for Shandur Polo Festival
To enjoy your trip without hassle, here’s a recommended list of items to pack:
- Warm jacket and layers (thermal innerwear is useful)
- Trekking shoes or hiking boots
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Sleeping bag (provided by us if needed)
- First aid kit and altitude sickness medication
- Camera or binoculars for wildlife and game viewing
- Reusable water bottle
We provide a detailed packing checklist after booking your tour.
Cultural Etiquette and Responsible Tourism
The festival takes place in a region with deep-rooted traditions. Here are a few tips to ensure respectful travel:
- Dress modestly, especially in villages
- Ask permission before taking photos of locals
- Avoid littering—help keep Shandur clean
- Buy local handicrafts to support artisans
- Respect customs and be open to learning
At Adventure Travel Pakistan, we prioritize sustainable tourism and work closely with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits them economically and culturally.
Highlights of Past Shandur Polo Festivals
Over the years, the Shandur Polo Festival has attracted royalty, international diplomats, media outlets, and thousands of travelers. The raw power of the matches, combined with the unmatched scenery, leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.
Recent highlights include:
- Drone photography capturing aerial views of the matches
- Cultural exchange events with international musicians
- Live broadcasts on national and international television
- Documentaries by travel channels showcasing the region’s heritage
Being part of the festival gives you a chance to witness history in the making.
Extend Your Trip with Other Northern Gems
Your journey doesn’t have to end at Shandur. Our custom tour options can extend your adventure to include:
- Hunza Valley: Famous for Baltit Fort and Attabad Lake
- Skardu: Home to Deosai Plains and Sheosar Lake
- Kalash Valleys: Explore the unique religion and lifestyle of the Kalash people
- Fairy Meadows: Hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp
- Khunjerab Pass: The highest border crossing between Pakistan and China
Let us design a multi-destination itinerary to make your trip even more memorable.
Testimonials from Our Guests
“I never imagined a polo match could be so thrilling. The festival atmosphere was incredible, and our guides made sure everything went smoothly. Highly recommend Adventure Travel Pakistan!”
– Saira Malik, Karachi
“Shandur was a dream come true. From camping under the stars to watching the matches and meeting locals, every moment was unforgettable.”
– Tom Jenkins, UK
“A perfect blend of culture and adventure. The team at Adventure Travel Pakistan was professional, friendly, and very knowledgeable.”
– Faisal Ahmad, Islamabad
Why Choose Adventure Travel Pakistan?
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Local expertise with national recognition
- Safe and reliable transportation
- Fully trained bilingual guides
- Eco-friendly and culturally responsible practices
- Tailored experiences for solo travelers, families, and groups
Our goal is not just to show you Pakistan—but to help you feel it, understand it, and return with memories that last a lifetime.
How to Book Your Shandur Polo Festival Tour
Booking your seat for the Shandur Polo Festival with Adventure Travel Pakistan is easy:
- Visit our website or call our helpline
- Choose a package or request a custom itinerary
- Secure your spot with a 30% deposit
- Receive your confirmation, travel checklist, and pre-tour briefing
Spaces are limited due to the remote location and popularity of the festival, so we recommend booking at least 1–2 months in advance.
