10 Days Shandur Polo Festival Cultural Tour
10 Days Shandur Polo Festival Cultural Tour
About this tour
Starts in Islamabad
Pickup included from anywhere in Islamabad
10 days
For ages 18 to 60
Best suited for the specified ages
Guided in English
Led by experienced local guides
Cancellation options
Refund amount depends on when you cancel before the departure.
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Operated by
Rock Valley Tours
Details
Experience the extraordinary Shandur Polo Festival, played on the world's highest polo ground at 3,700 meters. This 10-day journey takes you through vibrant Kalash Valleys, historic Chitral, and the i...
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Adjust group size, starting point, itinerary, or inclusions. to tailor it to your needs.
Places covered
Highlights
World's highest polo ground at 3,700 meters- Freestyle polo match between Gilgit and Chitral
- Cultural exploration of indigenous Kalasha people
- UNESCO World Heritage Site Takht-e-Bahi Monastery
- Traditional camping under stars at Shandur Pass
- Visit historic Chitral Fort and Shahi Mosque
- Experience authentic mountain community traditions
- Folk music and cultural performances at festival
What's Included
3-Star Hotel accommodation with breakfast includedTransportation by car with guideLicensed English-speaking guideEntry tickets to forts and museumsTourist visa invitation letter
Food (except breakfast)Tips for guide and driverPersonal equipmentItinerary
Scenic drive from Islamabad toward lush green Swat Valley. Stop at ancient Takht-e-Bahi Buddhist Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering insight into the region's Gandhara past. Drive time: 8–10 hours. Overnight: Hotel in Swat
Continue north through winding mountain roads to reach Kalash Valley, home to indigenous Kalasha people known for their distinct culture, traditions, and beliefs surviving for centuries. Drive time: ~6 hours. Overnight: Guesthouse in Bumburet
Full day exploring Bumburet, largest of three Kalash valleys. Visit traditional Kalasha homes, learn about mythology, customs, and daily life. Possible participation in local celebrations. Activities include guided village walk and cultural interaction. Overnight: Guesthouse in Bumburet
Drive to historic Chitral town surrounded by Hindu Kush mountains. Visit Shahi Mosque, Chitral Fort, and explore local bazaar. Short visit to Chitral Museum provides overview of region's ethnic diversity and history. Drive time: 4–5 hours. Overnight: Hotel in Chitral
Drive deeper into remote north toward Mastuj, passing small villages, rivers, and high mountain scenery. This largely untouched region offers true sense of northern Pakistan's rural life. Drive time: 6–7 hours. Overnight: Guesthouse in Mastuj
Drive to legendary Shandur Pass (3,700 meters), world's highest polo ground. Settle into campsite as Shandur Polo Festival begins with folk music, cultural performances, and lively atmosphere. Drive time: 4–5 hours. Overnight: Camping at Shandur Polo Ground
Tour highlight: witness famous freestyle polo match between Gilgit and Chitral—played without umpires and minimal rules, showcasing raw skill and tradition. Enjoy cultural festivities and local interaction. Highlights include polo matches, cultural shows, community interaction. Overnight: Camping at Shandur
After breakfast, descend from Shandur Pass and travel back toward Chitral. Evening free to relax after festival experience. Drive time: 7–8 hours. Overnight: Hotel in Chitral
Drive back to Swat Valley, stopping along the way for meals, rest, and photography in scenic locations. Drive time: 8–10 hours. Overnight: Hotel in Swat
Return journey to Islamabad with lasting memories of the mountains, cultures, and unique Shandur Polo Festival. Drive time: 8–9 hours. Tour ends
Helpful answers
The festival takes place every year from July 7 to July 9, but we plan the tour around it (July 1–10) to ensure you experience the festival and explore the surrounding areas like Kalash and Chitral.
Shandur Pass is situated at 3,700 meters (12,139 ft). Most people are fine, but mild symptoms like headache or shortness of breath can occur. We ascend gradually to help you acclimatize. Staying hydrated and avoiding overexertion helps.
We provide a mix of comfortable hotels and guesthouses in Swat, Kalash, Chitral, and Mastuj. During the Shandur Festival, we camp in tents with basic facilities provided (sleeping bags, mats, and shared toilets).
Yes, we can help you customize the itinerary, add days, or organize private trips before or after the festival. Whether you want to go hiking, explore Hunza, or visit Lahore, we're happy to arrange it.
What to know
- Festival takes place at 3,700 meters altitude
- Gradual ascent helps with acclimatization
- Cultural sensitivity required in Kalash Valley
- Weather can be unpredictable in mountains
- Basic camping facilities at Shandur Pass
- July is monsoon season with possible rains
- Conservative dress code recommended
- People with severe altitude sickness history
- Those requiring luxury accommodation throughout
- Travelers uncomfortable with basic camping facilities
- People with serious heart conditions
- Those unable to handle long driving hours
- Warm clothing for Shandur nights
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunblock, sunglasses, hat
- Personal medication
- Small backpack for day use
- Camera/phone for photos
- Layers for varying temperatures
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