Mountain weather can change quickly; conditions shown are planning guidance for the destination area.
Shandur Pass, at 3,700m, hosts the legendary Shandur Polo Festival every July, a fiercely contested freestyle polo tournament between the teams of Chitral and Gilgit, played on the world's highest polo ground. Expect thundering hooves, traditional music, folk dancing and a full camping festival atmosphere under the stars.
Quick Facts
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Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1, Gilgit to Phandar
Drive from Gilgit toward Shandur via the scenic Phandar Valley. Overnight at Phandar.
Day 2, Arrive Shandur Pass
Continue to Shandur Pass (3,700m). Set up festival camp. Evening opening ceremony and folk music.
Day 3, Polo Tournament Day
Full day watching the Chitral vs Gilgit freestyle polo final, plus traditional dance performances and local handicraft stalls.
Day 4, Return to Gilgit or Chitral
Break camp and descend either back to Gilgit or onward to Chitral, depending on your route.
Tour Highlights
Shandur Polo Tournament (Chitral vs Gilgit)Freestyle Polo at 3,700mFestival Camping & Folk MusicShandur LakePhandar Valley (en route)
What's Included
Private transport throughout
Camping or guesthouse accommodation
All meals during festival days
Licensed local guide
Not Included
International flights
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tour Information
Max Altitude
3,700m (Shandur Pass)
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Start
Gilgit or Chitral
Fitness
Easy, mostly spectating
Best Time
Early mid July (festival dates)
Group Size
2 to 12 people
Where You'll Stay
Festival camping
2 nights camping at Shandur Pass, all gear provided.
Phandar guesthouse
1 night at a valley guesthouse en route.
Questions About This Tour
Camping is the classic Shandur experience and included in this package. For travelers who prefer not to camp, we can arrange guesthouse accommodation in Phandar with a longer daily drive to the festival, ask us for this option.
Traditionally early to mid July each year, dates confirmed a few months ahead. We track the official schedule and plan around it.