The Shandur Polo Festival is one of Pakistan’s most celebrated cultural, historical, and sports events, drawing thousands of visitors from across the country and the world. Held every year in July at the world’s highest polo ground, this festival combines traditional freestyle polo, folk music, cultural performances, camping, stargazing, and breathtaking natural scenery. For anyone who wants to witness a thrilling blend of culture, adventure, and hospitality in the mountains of Pakistan, the Shandur Polo Festival is an experience that must be added to the travel bucket list.
To ensure a smooth, comfortable, and memorable experience, Adventure Travel Pakistan offers exclusive and fully managed tour packages to the Shandur Polo Festival. These packages include transport, meals, camping accommodation, sightseeing, and complete tour guidance, allowing visitors to focus solely on enjoying the festival.
This in-depth 1500-word blog covers everything you need to know before planning your trip to the Shandur Polo Festival, including its history, attractions, routes, cultural significance, and the best tour packages offered by Adventure Travel Pakistan.
The Historical Significance of the Shandur Polo Festival
Polo has been known as the “King of Games and Game of Kings” for centuries, but in the northern regions of Pakistan, polo is much more than a sport—it is a cultural legacy. The origins of polo in this region date back nearly 700 years when local rulers, warriors, and tribes used the game not only as entertainment but also to showcase bravery, strength, and strategy.
The Shandur Polo Ground was developed in the early 1930s by British administrator Major Cobb, fondly known by locals as “Cobb Sahib.” He encouraged friendly competitions between the kingdoms of Gilgit and Chitral. These matches soon evolved into an annual tradition, gradually transforming into an internationally recognized festival that attracts thousands of spectators every year.
Over the decades, the festival has become a symbol of unity and friendly rivalry between Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. It preserves the traditional style of polo that has been played for centuries—without modern rules, umpiring, or breaks—resulting in fast-paced, adrenaline-charged matches that thrill audiences.
Why the Shandur Polo Festival is a Must-Experience Event
There are many festivals around the world, but none can match the uniqueness of Shandur. Here’s why:
• Highest Polo Ground on Earth located at 3,700 meters (12,139 ft) above sea level
• Raw, Rule-Free Traditional Polo that showcases pure passion, speed, and skill
• Unmatched Scenery with snow-dusted peaks, meadows, lakes, and blue skies
• Camping Festival Experience under a star-filled sky beside Shandur Lake
• Cultural Fusion of Chitrali, Balti, and Gilgiti customs, music, food, and hospitality
• Adventure and Exploration including trekking, fishing, hiking, and scenic road travel
Attending the Shandur Polo Festival allows travelers to experience culture, adventure, nature, and tradition in one extraordinary journey. Adventure Travel Pakistan enhances this experience through professional trip planning and complete logistic management.
Festival Highlights: What to Expect at Shandur
The Shandur Polo Festival typically spans over three days, with each day offering different attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.
Here are the festival highlights:
• Colorful Opening Ceremony with the national anthem, flag hoisting, and regional parades
• Qualifying Polo Matches between various teams from Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral
• Grand Final Match on the last day to crown the annual champions
• Cultural Dance and Music Shows including traditional instruments like Rabab and Surnai
• Bonfire Nights with folk singing, storytelling, and tourist interactions
• Adventure Activities including horse riding, boating, trekking, and photo walks
• Local Food Stalls serving authentic Northern delicacies
• Crafts and Souvenir Bazaars selling handmade caps, shawls, jewelry, rugs, and wood crafts
The entire valley becomes a carnival of colors, culture, and celebration, offering memories that last a lifetime.
Best Shandur Polo Festival Tour Packages by Adventure Travel Pakistan
To make the journey enjoyable, comfortable, and stress-free, Adventure Travel Pakistan offers a variety of Shandur Polo Festival tour packages tailored for families, couples, solo travelers, student groups, and international tourists. Each package includes transportation, meals, tour management, festival passes, and guided sightseeing.
5-Day Shandur Polo Festival Economy Tour Package
Perfect for backpackers, students, and adventure lovers who want an affordable yet fulfilling experience.
Package Features:
• Road travel from Islamabad
• Standard camp accommodation with sleeping bags
• Breakfast + dinners + festival entry pass
• Tour coordinator and group activities
This package is ideal for budget travelers seeking adventure and excitement.
7-Day Shandur Polo Festival Standard Tour Package
Designed for families and tourists seeking comfort and balanced sightseeing along with festival participation.
Inclusions:
• Hotel + camp accommodation
• Meals and refreshments
• Festival access + sightseeing tours
• Visits to Gilgit, Phander, Gupis, Mastuj, and Shandur Lake
This is one of the most requested Shandur Festival tour packages by Adventure Travel Pakistan.
7-Day Shandur Polo Festival Luxury Tour Package
For those who prefer premium comfort, privacy, and personalized service throughout the journey.
Luxury Add-Ons:
• Domestic flights (subject to weather)
• VIP tents or premium hotel options
• Private transport and dedicated tour manager
• Special cultural experiences and fine-dining arrangements
This package is ideal for foreign guests, families with children, and corporate travelers.
Customized Group, Corporate & Educational Shandur Tour Packages
Adventure Travel Pakistan also creates custom itineraries for:
• Corporate retreats
• University and school groups
• Travel clubs and organizations
• Content creators and travel vloggers
• Photography and documentary expeditions
Group discounts and tailored arrangements ensure convenience and enjoyment for all.
Routes to Reach Shandur – How to Get There
Traveling to Shandur is an adventure of its own, filled with scenic landscapes and thrilling road journeys. There are two primary access routes:
Route 1: Via Gilgit
Islamabad → Naran → Babusar Top → Chilas → Gilgit → Gupis → Phander → Shandur
Route 2: Via Chitral
Islamabad → Swat → Dir → Lowari Tunnel → Chitral → Mastuj → Shandur
Both routes offer mesmerizing views of mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and villages. Based on weather and road conditions, Adventure Travel Pakistan selects the most suitable route for each tour group.
Accommodation and Camping at Shandur
Since Shandur is a remote mountain pass, there are no hotels at the festival ground. Camping is the main accommodation option—an essential part of the Shandur experience.
Accommodation options include:
• Standard Camps with essential facilities
• Upgraded Camps with better bedding and dining options
• Luxury Camps with comfortable bedding and private tents
• Hotels in Phander or Mastuj for those who prefer staying away from festival crowds
Adventure Travel Pakistan provides secure, hygienic, and comfortable camping arrangements, including tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, meals, and separate washroom facilities.
Cultural Food, Music, and Shopping at the Festival
The Shandur Polo Festival is also a cultural feast. Visitors enjoy traditional foods of the North, cultural performances, and local crafts.
Must-try local dishes include:
• Chapshuro
• Trout BBQ and Trout Karahi
• Yak Karahi
• Chitrali Lamb dishes
• Balti soups and herbal teas
Local music featuring Rabab, Chitrali drums, and folk songs sets the ambiance. Handicraft stalls offer embroidered caps, wool shawls, wooden carvings, gemstones, and handmade jewelry—perfect souvenirs for travelers.
Travel Tips for Shandur Polo Festival Visitors
• Carry warm clothing—nights are cold even in July
• Bring power banks and extra batteries for cameras
• Keep essential medicines and sunscreen
• Physical fitness helps due to high altitude
• Book early due to limited space and high demand
With Adventure Travel Pakistan, most logistical concerns including travel, food, camping, and guidance are fully taken care of.
Final Words – Join the Shandur Polo Festival with Adventure Travel Pakistan
The Shandur Polo Festival is not just an event; it is a celebration of heritage, unity, courage, and nature. Nestled among mountains and clouds, it offers a surreal atmosphere where sports meets culture, adventure meets serenity, and tradition meets celebration.
If you want a smooth, memorable, and enriching experience at the Shandur Polo Festival, Adventure Travel Pakistan provides the most reliable and professionally managed tour packages. From travel planning and accommodation to festival access and sightseeing, everything is arranged to ensure you enjoy every moment.