Join us for the famous Shandur Polo Festival, held every July on the highest polo ground in the world (3,700m). This exciting event is not only about polo, it is also about music, dance, local food, and friendly people from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Our 8-Day Tour starts from Islamabad and takes you through Swat, Chitral, and the Kalash Valley before reaching Shandur Pass. 

You will watch the festival, meet local people, and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. It is a perfect trip for anyone who loves culture, sports, and nature.

Tour Highlights

• Watch the Shandur Polo Festival with local teams from Chitral and Gilgit.
• Enjoy folk music, traditional dances, and local food.
• Visit the Kalash Valley and see the unique lifestyle of the Kalash people.
• Travel through beautiful valleys of Swat, Chitral, and Mastuj.
• Stay in tents near Shandur Lake during the festival.
• See rivers, green fields, and high mountains on the way.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 – Islamabad Arrival
Pickup from airport. Short city tour of Islamabad (Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh). Overnight stay in Islamabad.

Day 2 – Islamabad to Swat
Drive to Swat Valley. Walk around Mingora bazaar. Overnight in Swat.

Day 3 – Swat to Chitral
Scenic drive to Chitral. Free time in Chitral town. Overnight stay.

Day 4 – Kalash Valley Visit
Day trip to Kalash villages (Bumburet or Rumbur). Meet the Kalash community. Return to Chitral for overnight.

Day 5 – Chitral to Mastuj
Drive along the Chitral River to Mastuj. Stay in a local guesthouse or camp.

Day 6 – Festival Opening at Shandur
Arrive at Shandur Pass. Watch the first polo matches and cultural shows. Overnight camping at Shandur.

Day 7 – Polo Finals & Celebrations
Enjoy the final polo match, folk music, and night bonfire. Overnight camping at Shandur.

Day 8 – Return Trip
Drive back toward Gilgit or Islamabad. Drop-off at hotel or airport. End of tour.

Things To Do

• Watch polo at the world’s highest polo ground.
• Listen to local music and see traditional dance.
• Camp under the stars near Shandur Lake.
• Visit Kalash villages and learn about their way of life.
• Take photos of rivers, valleys, and snowy peaks.
• Enjoy local food and meet friendly people.

Trip Includes

• Private transport (AC vehicle).
• Hotels, guesthouses, and festival camping.
• Daily breakfast and some dinners.
• Festival entry passes.
• English-speaking guide.
• Bottled water.
• Airport transfers.

Trip Excludes

• Flights to/from Pakistan.
• Travel insurance.
• Extra meals, snacks, or shopping.
• Tips for driver or guide (optional).
• Any costs caused by weather or road issues.

FAQs

1. How many days is the tour?
   It is an 8-day trip starting and ending in Islamabad.
2. When is the Shandur Polo Festival?
   It takes place every year in July.
3. Where will I stay during the festival?
   You will stay in tents near Shandur Lake.
4. Is the tour good for foreign travelers?
   Yes, it is safe and guided in English.
5. How high is Shandur Pass?
   It is about 3,700m (12,100 ft) above sea level.
6. What clothes should I bring?
   Bring warm clothes, a jacket, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen.
7. Can I also visit Kalash Valley?
   Yes, one day is included for Kalash Valley.
8. Is the road journey long?
   Yes, but it is very scenic with many rest stops.
9. Are meals at the festival included?
   Breakfast and some meals are included. You can buy more food at the festival.
10. Is it a group or private tour?
    Both options are available, you can join a group or book privately.