The Shandur Polo Festival is one of Pakistan’s most unique cultural and sporting events — a thrilling combination of rugged mountain landscapes, ancient traditions, and adrenaline-filled polo matches held at 12,200 feet above sea level. Known as “The Roof of the World,” Shandur Pass in northern Pakistan transforms into a vibrant festival ground every July, attracting locals, tourists, and adventure seekers from across the globe.
If you’re planning to experience this unforgettable event, combine your visit with Pakistan’s most Best trekking trip in Pakistan adventures such as the K2 Base Camp Trek, the K2 and Gondogoro La Trek Pakistan 2026, the Snow Lake trek, or the Rakaposhi Base Camp Hunza Valley trek. These journeys offer a complete experience of Pakistan’s majestic mountains and cultural heritage.
🌄 What Makes the Shandur Polo Festival So Special?
The Shandur Polo Festival is not your ordinary sporting event — it’s a celebration of history, pride, and community. Polo, known as “The Game of Kings,” has been played in these mountains for centuries. What makes Shandur unique is its high-altitude polo ground, which is considered the highest in the world.
Every July, teams from Chitral and Gilgit face off in a friendly yet fiercely competitive series of matches. Locals set up colorful camps, traditional music fills the air, and food stalls serve local delicacies. The three-day event reflects the cultural richness of the northern regions and the spirit of mountain life.
🏔️ The Location: Shandur Pass – “The Roof of the World”
The Shandur Pass connects the valleys of Chitral and Gilgit in Pakistan’s north. At 12,200 feet, this vast plateau is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and turquoise lakes. During summer, the area becomes accessible by jeep or 4×4 from either side.
Visitors often combine their journey to the festival with nearby trekking expeditions such as:
K2 Base Camp Trek in Pakistan – A legendary trek for mountaineers and adventure lovers.
Snow Lake trek in Pakistan – One of the most spectacular glacial treks in the world.
Fairy Meadows Trek in Pakistan – Perfect for those seeking breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat.
Rakaposhi Base Camp Hunza Valley trek – Ideal for trekkers who love alpine scenery and the culture of Hunza.
🎉 The Festival Experience: Polo, Music & Mountains
The Shandur Polo Festival lasts for three days, usually from July 7–9, and includes:
Opening Ceremony: Welcoming speeches, flag hoisting, and cultural dances.
Polo Matches: Intense games between Chitral and Gilgit teams. The matches are fast-paced and played without modern rules — pure, traditional polo!
Cultural Programs: Folk music, traditional dances, and local handicraft exhibitions.
Camping & Bonfires: Visitors camp on the vast plateau under star-filled skies.
Photography Opportunities: Every corner is a picture-perfect moment — from horses in action to the panoramic Shandur Lake.
🧭 How to Reach the Shandur Polo Festival
Reaching Shandur Polo Festival requires some planning and adventure spirit.
From Islamabad:
Route 1: Islamabad → Gilgit → Gupis → Phander → Shandur (Approx. 18–20 hours)
Route 2: Islamabad → Chitral → Mastuj → Laspur → Shandur (Approx. 15–18 hours)
Most travelers join an organized tour with a Shandur Polo Festival tour company that includes transport, accommodation, and local guides.
You can also combine your trip with other adventure routes such as the K2 Base Camp Tour or Snow Lake Trek Tour for a complete mountain experience.
🏕️ Accommodation Options
Since Shandur is remote, visitors stay in tents or temporary camps set up by tour organizers. Some visitors bring their own gear, while others opt for organized tours that provide equipment.
Nearby valleys like Phander and Mastuj have limited guesthouses, but most travelers prefer to stay close to the festival site for the full experience.
A Shandur Polo Festival tour package typically includes:
Transport from Gilgit or Chitral
Meals and camp facilities
Polo match passes
Guided excursions to nearby lakes or villages
🏇 The History of Shandur Polo Festival
The tradition of playing polo at Shandur goes back to the early 20th century when British administrators encouraged friendly matches between local tribes. Over time, it evolved into a major cultural festival, symbolizing unity between Gilgit and Chitral.
Unlike modern polo, the matches here are played without umpires or boundaries, embodying raw skill, bravery, and teamwork. The crowd cheers wildly for every goal, and the final match is one of the most anticipated sports events in northern Pakistan.
🌺 Culture & Hospitality
Visiting Shandur isn’t just about polo — it’s a deep dive into the rich traditions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. Locals wear colorful embroidered dresses, perform folk songs, and share stories around bonfires. Tourists often describe the hospitality of the locals as heartwarming and unforgettable.
🌍 Combine with Other Pakistan Adventures
Adventure seekers often combine the Shandur Polo Festival with famous trekking and cultural tours:
K2 Base Camp Tour
K2 and Gondogoro La Trek Pakistan 2026
Snow Lake Trek Tour
Rakaposhi Base Camp Tour
Fairy Meadows Trek Tour
Indus Valley Civilization Tour
Kalash Festival Tour
All these experiences can be booked with Adventure Pakistan, offering professional guides and complete adventure packages.
💰 Shandur Polo Festival Cost & Tour Packages
The Shandur Polo Festival tour cost varies depending on the package:
Budget Tour: Starts around USD 500 per person (4–5 days)
Standard Tour: USD 700–900 (includes meals, guide, and transport)
Luxury Package: USD 1000+ (includes private vehicle, camping equipment, and premium tents)
Most Shandur Polo Festival tour companies offer customizable itineraries that include other destinations like Hunza or Gilgit.
🧳 What to Pack
Warm clothing (temperatures drop at night)
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Trekking shoes or boots
Power bank and camera
Personal first-aid kit
If combining with treks like K2 Base Camp Trek or Snow Lake Trek, ensure you pack proper trekking gear.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
The Shandur Polo Festival is held annually in early July, but you can explore surrounding areas from June to September, when the weather is mild and mountain passes are open.
🌐 Responsible Travel Tips
Respect local customs and traditions.
Avoid littering — carry waste bags.
Support local artisans by buying handmade crafts.
Use eco-friendly products.
Responsible tourism helps preserve the pristine beauty of Shandur and supports local communities.
⭐ Reviews from Travelers
“The Shandur Polo Festival was the highlight of my Pakistan trip! The energy, the people, and the setting were unforgettable.” – Sarah, UK
“Camping at 12,000 feet and watching polo matches surrounded by mountains — this is something you don’t see anywhere else!” – Ali, USA
“Adventure Pakistan arranged everything perfectly — from transport to camping gear. Highly recommended!” – Thomas, Germany
❓FAQs About the Shandur Polo Festival
1. When is the Shandur Polo Festival 2026?
It is usually held from July 7–9 each year, depending on weather conditions.
2. How do I book a Shandur Polo Festival tour package?
You can book directly with Adventure Pakistan or other Shandur Polo Festival tour companies offering guided trips.
3. Can foreigners attend the festival?
Yes, international visitors are welcome. Adventure companies assist with permits and logistics.
4. What else can I do in the area?
Combine it with treks like the K2 Base Camp Tour, Fairy Meadows Trek, or Snow Lake Trek for a complete adventure.
5. What is the altitude of the Shandur Pass?
Approximately 12,200 feet (3,700 meters) above sea level.
🏁 Conclusion
The Shandur Polo Festival 2026 is more than a sporting event — it’s a celebration of Pakistan’s culture, nature, and adventure. From exhilarating polo matches to breathtaking landscapes, this event embodies the true spirit of the northern mountains.
Whether you’re here for the festival or combining it with treks like K2 and Gondogoro La Trek Pakistan 2026, Snow Lake Trek, or Rakaposhi Base Camp Hunza Valley Trek — you’ll witness Pakistan at its most authentic and awe-inspiring.