Shandur Polo Festival

The Shandur Polo Festival, which takes place during 2023-24, is a fascinating celebration observed by the tribes residing in the northern regions of Pakistan, namely Gilgit and Chitral. Annually, tribes from Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral convene at the breathtaking Shandur Pass during the summer season. The pass boasts a picturesque polo ground where a distinctive and unrestrained form of polo is played by various regional teams. Notably, the Shandur polo ground stands as the highest polo ground globally, nestled at an elevation of 3,700 meters. This ground is situated in proximity to Shandur Lake, adding to the allure of the festival. The event offers a remarkable cultural immersion experience amidst the stunning Hindukush mountain ranges.

Overview

The Shandur Polo Festival is a centuries-old and spirited polo event held at Shandur Polo Ground since 1936, set at the Shandur Pass bordering Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. Every July's first week, the festival unites the tribes of Gilgit and Chitral for a thrilling three-day celebration.

Imagine Karakorum Tours has been organizing Shandur Polo Festival Tours and other adventures in Pakistan for many years, featuring 8-10 day itineraries on a full-board basis. The tour commences in Islamabad, offering a mountain-view flight to Chitral and exploration of local culture.

The journey continues with a visit to Rumbur in the Kalash Valley, where unique Hindu traditions are observed. A drive to Shandur at an altitude of over 3,743 meters unveils the world's highest polo ground. The freestyle polo matches and cultural festivities take center stage.

The tour then descends from Shandur, traveling along the Phandur River to reach Gilgit, the administrative capital of the Gilgit-Baltistan region. The return journey follows the Karakoram Highway, with a night in Naran.Ultimately, the tour concludes in Islamabad, offering a comprehensive experience of Pakistan's diverse culture and landscapes.

Imagine Karakorum Tours welcomes solo travelers during the first week of July, while private groups can choose their preferred travel dates.

Cost & Date (Shandur Polo Festival) 14 days

The best times to explore the enchanting regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral are during the summer and autumn seasons. The specific dates for the Shandur Polo Festival are determined by the provincial governments of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and they traditionally fall in the month of July. To ensure an exceptional experience at the Shandur Polo Festival, we meticulously select our tour dates.

Please find the start and end dates in the table below, which represent your arrival and departure from Pakistan. We offer at least one guaranteed departure for the Shandur Polo Festival. Here are the dates and costs for this extraordinary event

The Shandur Polo Festival offers an all-inclusive holiday package, with specified tour dates and prices for the Islamabad-to-Islamabad itinerary. These rates and dates apply exclusively to our fixed departure holidays. You can join these departures and connect with fellow solo travelers who share your enthusiasm for the Shandur Polo Festival. We also provide options for single hotel rooms and tent supplements at a minimal additional cost, although single hotel room rates may vary based on room availability and other factors.

For private groups, you have the flexibility to select dates that align with your travel plans. We offer discounts for groups, couples, and families, so we encourage you to reach out to us before making your reservation. Our holiday packages encompass all aspects of your journey, including domestic flights, accommodations, meals, transportation, and knowledgeable guides. We've thought of everything to ensure you have a stress-free and enjoyable vacation.

Please note that the Shandur Polo Festival tour costs and dates are specific to the Islamabad-to-Islamabad itinerary. Most international flights arrive at Islamabad Airport in the morning, while return flights depart from Islamabad International Airport on the last day of the itinerary.

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Highlights

- Experience the vibrant summer polo festival of the Chitral and Gilgit tribes
- Join in the celebration and dance to the rhythms of indigenous music
- savor the rich flavors of Pakistani cuisine
- Engage with local community members and listen to their captivating stories
- Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of numerous peaks, including Tirich Mir (7,708m) in the Hindukush Range and Nanga Parbat (8,126m) in the Himalaya Range
- Take in the mesmerizing beauty of rivers like Kunar, Chitral, Gilgit, Indus, and their tributaries, as well as glistening streams
- Traverse scenic mountain passes like Malakand Pass, Lowari Pass (3,118 m) or Lowari Tunnel (10.4 kms), Shandur Pass (4,173m), and Babusar Pass (3,700m)
- Explore the picturesque valleys of Pakistan, including Dir, Chitral, Yasin, Punial, Naran, and Kaghan
- Admire the serene beauty of lakes, including Shandur, Phandar, Khalti, and Lulusar
- Visit historic forts like Malakand, Nagar, and Chitral, as well as impressive mosques like the Shahi Masjid
- Discover the significance of landmarks like Churchil Picket and Malakand
- Delight in sightseeing in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, two dynamic cities with a rich cultural heritage
- Forge new friendships and create lasting memories
- Enjoy discounted rates for an enriching cultural travel experience

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Details Itinerary

D-1  Arrival in Islamabad
Welcome to Pakistan! Most international flights arrive in Islamabad in the morning. Your cultural guide, as per government requirements, will greet you at the international arrival hall and transport you to your group hotel in Islamabad. The remainder of the day is yours to recuperate from your journey. Later in the afternoon, when all travelers have arrived, there will be a comprehensive group briefing about the tour.

Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel day)
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-2 Flight to Chitral
Today, you'll head to Islamabad Airport for a spectacular mountain flight to Chitral, weather permitting. This flight offers awe-inspiring vistas of the Karakoram, Hindukush, and Himalayan mountain ranges. Upon arriving in the tranquil town of Chitral, check into your hotel, and spend the day exploring local shops, communities, and historical sites. You'll have the opportunity to wander through the local Bazar and learn about Chitral Gol National Park. Chitral, perched 1,500 meters above sea level, rests along the Chitral river and serves as the capital of the Chitral district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In case of flight cancellation, an equally spectacular road journey to Chitral awaits, passing through Mardan, Malakand, Bathkhela, and Dir Lowari Tunnels.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-3  Chitral to Rumbur
Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Hindukush mountains. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and travel to Rumbur, one of the Kalash valleys in the Chitral district. This region is home to the Kalasha people, who have inhabited these valleys for centuries. The Kalasha people practice an ancient form of Hinduism, possess a unique culture and traditions, and speak a distinct language. Spend your day in Rumbur, exploring the historic village, getting to know the welcoming Kalasha people, and immersing yourself in their daily life.

Accommodation: Camping/Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-4 Rumbur to Shandur 
Today, you'll embark on a journey to Shandur to witness the exceptional festival and polo tournament at the world's highest polo ground. Pass through Chitral town and follow the Chitral Mastuj road along the Chitral river to the Ludkho river junction. Then, follow the Mastuj river to reach Mastuj, a small town situated at an elevation of 2,359 meters. Along the way, there will be a lunch stop in Mastuj. In the afternoon, take a picturesque drive along winding roads with stunning views of Tirich Mir, Boni Zong, Yarkun valley, and Shandur pass, eventually arriving at Shandur ground. This remarkable polo field stands on the border between Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral. You'll reach the Polo ground in the early afternoon, providing an opportunity to catch the final match of the day. You'll also find a tourist camping village with restaurant facilities during the event, where merchants from Peshawar, Chitral, and Gilgit offer souvenirs and folk crafts.

This unique festival offers a chance to mingle with locals and visitors from around the world. In the evening, you'll experience an unforgettable bonfire and enjoy folk music in the camping village. Your night will be spent in a tent beneath the stars.

Accommodation: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-5  Shandur Festival Day
Rise early to witness a magical sunrise over the Hindukush mountains. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the camp and prepare for a busy day at the Shandur polo ground, also known as the "roof of the world." The Shandur Polo Festival will be in full swing, attracting spectators from all corners of the globe who have gathered to enjoy the traditional polo tournament with local participants. You'll have ample time to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, interact with the locals, and even join in traditional local dances. Thousands of foreign visitors and locals congregate at this world's highest polo field to relish the freestyle polo tournament played by different teams from Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral.

Accommodation: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-6 Shandur Polo Festival Day
Today marks the final day of the tournament at the polo ground, promising an abundance of folk music, traditional dances, horse racing, paragliding, and the arrival of VIP guests. It's a tradition that the chief guest, often the President or Prime Minister of Pakistan, inaugurates the final match by tossing the ball and presenting the trophy to the winning team. The pinnacle of the polo tournament is the title match between the rival Gilgit and Chitral polo teams. The final polo match is a colorful spectacle, attracting supporters from remote areas who come to cheer for their teams and witness the traditional polo match that can last anywhere from half an hour to an hour. The polo tournament offers a captivating glimpse into the lifestyle, culture, and indigenous customs of the region, making it a delight for visitors.

Accommodation: Full-service Camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-7 Shandur to Gilgit
The Shandur festival has concluded, and today you'll embark on your journey to Gilgit after enjoying this extraordinary event. Leave behind the camp with unforgettable memories and follow the Gilgit road along the magnificent Gilgit river. On your route, you'll make a lunch stop in a small village in the Phandar Valley. Ghizer District in Gilgit Baltistan, where Phandar Valley is located, is renowned for trout fishing. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Gilgit river and the quaint village before arriving in Gilgit.

Gilgit, the capital city of the Gilgit Baltistan region of Pakistan, is nestled on both sides of the Gilgit river, surrounded by towering mountains. Often referred to as the "American Wild West of Asia," Gilgit serves as a gateway to China, K2 Base Camp Trek, Spantik Peak, Biafo Hispar, Hunza, and other mountain valleys.

Accommodation:  Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-8  Gilgit to Naran 
Awaken early to explore the markets and parks of Gilgit city. As the largest city in the Gilgit Baltistan region and the closest along the Karakoram Highway to the Pakistan-China border, Gilgit is a hub for Chinese products. It presents the perfect opportunity to purchase souvenirs and Chinese goods at favorable prices. After lunch in Gilgit, set out on a journey along the Indus river, following the Naran Kaghan road, offering spectacular views of lush green valleys, small villages, and towns. Your route will take you to Mansehra, where you'll rejoin the Karakoram

Highway and head back to Islamabad. Returning from the mountains, you'll notice the contrast between the traffic and the bustling city life. This is your last evening in Pakistan, so be sure to savor local and traditional Pakistani cuisine for dinner, making your Shandur Polo Festival Tour even more memorable.

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

D-9 Naran to Islamabad

Drive from Naran to Islamabaf

D-10  Departure Day - Fly Back Home:
Depending on your flight's departure time, we will transfer you to the airport for your journey back home. This concludes the "Shandur Polo Festival Tour."

Inclusions

☑ Licensed, professional, and English-speaking cultural guide (in compliance with government regulations)
☑ All domestic airport transfers
☑ All domestic road transfers in private vehicles
☑ All hotel accommodations (twin-sharing rooms)
☑ All camping accommodations (twin-sharing tents)
☑ All hotel meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
☑ All camping site fees
☑ Camping logistics, including tents, non-personal equipment, and tools
☑ Support staff, including cooks, assistants, and more

Exclusions

❌ International flights
❌ Travel Insurance
❌ Visa Fee
❌ Tips for local guides and support staff
❌ Miscellaneous expenses
❌ Bars, room service, and laundry
❌ Beverages and drinks
❌ Souvenirs, etc.
❌ Excess airport luggage charges