Shandur Polo Festival World’s Highest Polo Event
Imagine watching one of the world’s most exciting polo matches high above the clouds, under open skies and surrounded by towering mountains. This is the Shandur Polo Festival. Held every year in the breathtaking grasslands of Shandur Pass, this event is not just a sports festival; it is a cultural celebration full of colour, energy and unforgettable memories.
What Makes the Shandur Polo Festival Special
The Shandur Polo Festival is known as the World’s Highest Polo Ground Festival; it takes place at over 12,500 feet above sea level in the stunning northern region of Pakistan. Every year, visitors from around the world come to see thrilling polo matches, feel the rhythm of traditional music, enjoy folk dance and experience the rich cultures of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.
This festival connects adventure culture, history and friendship:
Heart pounding polo matches played on grassy plains
Traditional dance shows and folk music performances
Beautiful mountain scenery with peaks like Tirich Mir and other Himalayan giants
Local food stalls serving rich Pakistani flavours
Fun activities like horse riding, paragliding and cultural storytelling
A Short History of Polo and Shandur Festival
Polo started in Central Asia long ago, around 600 BC; it was used as a training game for horse soldiers. The word “polo” comes from the Balti language, meaning ball. In ancient times there were no rules on the number of players or game time; the first side to score nine goals won.
Today the rules are more organised; each team has six players, and games go for one hour with a ten minutes break. At Shandur, it is not just a game; it is a showcase of skill, stamina and teamwork in a truly epic location.
When and Where the Festival Happens
The Shandur Polo Festival is held every year from June 28th to June 30th at Shandur Pass; this panoramic plateau sits on the border between Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral. It is where three great mountain ranges meet:
Pamir Range
Hindu Kush
Karakoram Range
The festival field is surrounded by snowcapped peaks, green grasslands and clear blue skies, making it one of the most scenic sports event grounds on the planet.
What You Can Do at the Festival
At Shandur, there is much more to enjoy than polo alone:
Watch freestyle polo matches with thrilling long shots and fast gallops
Enjoy traditional music and folk dance performed by local groups
Try horseback riding or paragliding over breathtaking views
Listen to ancient stories about local history, culture and bravery
Dine on delicious local dishes cooked by mountain families
Take photos of mighty rivers like the Indus and Kunar River flowing through the valleys
This festival is perfect for families, couples, photographers and adventure lovers alike.
How the Teams Prepare and Compete
Teams from Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral get ready long before the festival begins:
Training usually takes place in Gologmuli Phandar for about eighteen days
Teams play preparatory matches in Chitral and Gilgit to select the final teams
On June 28th, the festival begins with the opening matches
Each team has six players and matches last one hour with a ten minutes rest
The team with the most goals at the end wins
The festival ends on June 30th with the final match that draws the biggest crowd and celebration.
Why Tourists Love Shandur Polo Festival
The Shandur Polo Festival is a major travel highlight for visitors from all over the world:
It is a unique cultural event that cannot be seen anywhere else
The festival brings together people of all ages and nationalities
Local leaders and officials often attend, showing the importance of the festival
The weather is cool and pleasant, even in summer, making travel comfortable
This festival showcases the true spirit of unity, peace and friendship
Shandur itself is a peaceful green meadow that connects Upper Chitral to the Ghizer district; it feels like a natural gathering place where mountains welcome guests with open arms.
Conclusion
The Shandur Polo Festival is more than a sports event; it is a celebration of culture, nature and history. Whether you are a polo fan, a lover of traditions or an explorer looking for something rare and beautiful, this festival has something magical to offer you. From the first whistle of the match to the last beat of folk drums, this experience stays with you forever.
If you want to feel energy, meet warmhearted locals, enjoy stunning mountain views, and witness ancient culture in action, then the Shandur Polo Festival should be at the top of your travel list.