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14 Days 13 Nights
Daily Tour
Unlimited
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Join PASSAGE TO PAKISTAN for the ultimate mountain adventure that blends culture, sport, and scenery like no other—the 14-Day Shandur Polo Festival Tour. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the world’s highest polo ground at Shandur Pass (3,700 meters), this once-a-year event is more than just a polo match—it’s a celebration of life in the highlands of Pakistan.
The tour begins in Islamabad and takes you on a thrilling route through the majestic Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges, weaving through vibrant cultures, pristine valleys, and ancient heritage. Along the way, you’ll explore the mystical Kalash Valleys, where the pagan Kalasha people celebrate life with unmatched color and spirit.
From Bumburet, travel into Chitral, where the old-world charm of the Shahi Mosque and Chitral Fort greet you. Continue to Mastuj and make your way to the grand arena of the Shandur Polo Festival—an epic two-day spectacle where traditional freestyle polo is played between the fierce teams of Chitral and Gilgit. There’s music, dance, food, camping under the stars, and unforgettable energy in the air.
After the festivities, journey deeper into Gilgit-Baltistan, reaching the surreal and lesser-known Phandar Valley, where turquoise rivers and thick forests offer perfect peace. Then head toward the jewel of the north—Hunza Valley. Discover the timeless villages of Karimabad, Altit, and Gulmit, marvel at the views of Rakaposhi and Passu Cones, and cruise across Attabad Lake with snow-dusted peaks watching over you.
Along the way, you’ll stay in cozy guesthouses, interact with local communities, taste regional cuisine, and be guided by passionate locals who know these valleys like the lines of their palms.
The Shandur Polo Festival Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure seekers, culture lovers, and explorers who want more than just a vacation. With PASSAGE TO PAKISTAN, you don’t just visit the north you live it.
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Meet and greet by your tour representative. Depending on arrival time, explore Faisal Mosque or Saidpur Village. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Depart early for Swat via Malakand Pass. Enjoy the scenic route along the Swat River. Arrive in Mingora/Fizagat and settle into your hotel. Overnight stay in Swat.
Continue north through Dir and cross the Lowari Tunnel into the Chitral Valley. Visit Shahi Mosque and Chitral Fort if time permits. Overnight stay in Chitral.
Drive to Bumburet, one of the famous Kalash valleys. Explore Kalasha villages, meet local families, and learn about their animist traditions. Overnight stay in Bumburet.
Spend the day exploring Rumbur Valley with short hikes and cultural interactions. Return to Bumburet in the evening. Overnight stay in Bumburet.
Depart Kalash and head toward upper Chitral. The road winds through rivers and small villages as you reach Mastuj. Overnight stay in a local lodge or guesthouse.
Drive over Shandur Pass (3,700m) to reach the festival site. Settle into your campsite and enjoy the opening day festivities. Overnight camping at Shandur.
Enjoy traditional polo matches, folk dances, and local food amid stunning mountain scenery. Explore the festival stalls and meet people from both Gilgit and Chitral regions. Overnight camping at Shandur.
Cross into Gilgit-Baltistan and descend to the green valley of Phandar, known for its tranquil lake and pine trees. Relax at a lakeside guesthouse. Overnight stay in Phandar.
Head toward the Karakoram Highway, traveling through Gupis and Gilgit before arriving in Karimabad, Hunza. Overnight stay in Karimabad.
Visit Altit and Baltit Forts, walk through old Hunza streets, and take in views of Ultar, Rakaposhi, and Lady Finger Peak. Enjoy traditional walnut cake. Overnight stay in Karimabad.
Take a scenic drive north to Attabad Lake, Passu Glacier, and Gulmit village. Optional stop at the Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Return to Karimabad. Overnight stay in Karimabad.
Start your journey south with a stop in Gilgit for a short city tour and shopping. Overnight stay in Gilgit.
Catch an early morning flight to Islamabad (weather dependent) or drive via Karakoram Highway. Transfer to hotel or airport.
Guests will be dropped at the airport. End of tour.
The Shandur Polo Festival is a world-renowned event held every July at Shandur Pass (12,000 ft)—the highest polo ground on Earth. It features traditional freestyle polo matches between Chitral and Gilgit teams, alongside folk music, dance, and camping under the stars. It’s one of the top cultural festivals in Pakistan.
This tour includes visits to Kalash Valleys (Bumburet), Chitral Town, Shandur Pass, Phandar Valley, and the iconic Hunza Valley. You’ll experience a mix of indigenous culture, scenic beauty, and adventure travel through the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Yes, this is a well-guided and safe tour suitable for international tourists, cultural explorers, families, and small groups. All transport, accommodation, festival access, and local guides are included for a smooth, worry-free experience in remote mountain regions.
You’ll need layered clothing, as temperatures at high altitudes can vary between 5°C and 20°C. Pack a warm jacket, hiking shoes, sunblock, power bank, sunglasses, camera, and personal medications. A sleeping bag may be useful for optional camping at the festival site.
The tour includes stays at hotels, boutique guesthouses, and campsites (during the Shandur Polo Festival). While basic in some remote areas, all accommodations are clean, secure, and carefully selected for comfort. All meals and festival logistics are arranged in advance.
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