Shandur Polo Festival — The Roof of the World Awaits

Shandur Polo Festival — The Roof of the World Awaits

• 4 DAYS / 3 Night
• Max People :
• Pakistan.

The Shandur Polo Festival is a legendary sporting event where skilled horsemen compete in fast-paced polo matches on the world’s highest polo ground. Held on the Shandur Pass at an altitude of about 12,000 feet, this thrilling festival combines the spirit of competition with the beauty of the Himalayas and Hindu Kush ranges.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking highlands of Gilgit-Baltistan, where nature’s grandeur meets vibrant tradition. This once-in-a-lifetime festival offers the perfect opportunity to witness some of the region’s most iconic and awe-inspiring sights, from snow-capped peaks to crystal-clear alpine lakes.

Start your adventure by stepping into the lively festival grounds, where colorful tents, fluttering flags, and the thunder of galloping horses fill the air. Surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and endless skies, the atmosphere feels almost otherworldly — a place where culture, courage, and nature unite at the roof of the world.

🏔️ Highlights of the Shandur Polo Festival

• 🐎 World’s Highest Polo Ground

  • Played at 12,000 feet above sea level on the majestic Shandur Pass.

• ⚔️ Fierce Polo Matches

  • Traditional freestyle polo between the teams of Gilgit and Chitral — fast, intense, and full of energy.

• 🎪 Colorful Cultural Festivities

  • Folk music, traditional dances, and local handicraft stalls showcasing rich regional heritage.

• 🏞️ Breathtaking Mountain Scenery

  • Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and sparkling lakes.

• 🏕️ Camping Under the Stars

  • Visitors camp in tents on the plateau, enjoying clear night skies and cool mountain air.

• 🥘 Taste of Local Cuisine

  • Enjoy traditional Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitrali dishes prepared fresh during the festival.

• 📸 Photography Paradise

  • Ideal for capturing dramatic landscapes, vibrant costumes, and action-packed polo moments.

    🗓️ Minimum Advance Reservations

    • Book at least 2–3 months in advance

      • Accommodation and transport options are very limited near Shandur Pass.

      • Tents and guesthouses fill up quickly due to the remote location and high tourist demand.

    • During peak season (Festival dates: early July)

      • It’s best to book 4–6 months in advance if you want good-quality camps, guided tours, or private transport.

    • Last-minute bookings

      • Rarely possible; most tour operators and local lodges get fully booked weeks before the festival.

        Visit cultural stalls displaying handicrafts, local art, and souvenirs

        Bonfire night with folk performances under the stars ✨

        Horse riding demonstrations and archery competitions

        Local food tasting — traditional Chitrali and Gilgit-Baltistan dishes

        Evening cultural show with music, dance, and storytelling

        Final shopping for local crafts and souvenirs

        💡 Optional Add-ons:

        Guided photography tours

        Trekking to nearby viewpoints

        Visit to Phandar Valley or Mastuj on your way back

Transport

• Bike
• Cars