Shandur Polo Festival & Northern Pakistan Tour
Shandur Polo Festival & Northern Pakistan Tour
About this tour
Starts in Islamabad
Pickup included from anywhere in Islamabad
16 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
Trips Nomad Adventure
Details
Experience the extraordinary Shandur Polo Festival at the world's highest polo ground (3,700m), where teams from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan revive centuries-old rivalry. This cultural celebration fe...
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Places covered
Highlights
Watch Polo at the World's Highest Ground at 3,700 meters
Explore Shandur Pass with stunning mountain scenery
Immerse in Local Culture with traditional music and dances
Taste authentic northern Pakistani dishes
Embark on scenic journey through dramatic valleys
Camp Under Starry Skies with clear night views
Visit Kalash Valleys, Phandar Lake, and historic forts
Meet global travelers and culture enthusiasts
Celebrate tradition and team spirit at the festival
Experience warm hospitality of local communities
What's Included
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, transfer to hotel. Afternoon city tour including iconic Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa Museum showcasing Pakistan's cultural heritage, and breathtaking views from Daman-e-Koh viewpoint in Margalla Hills. Evening briefing about next day's itinerary.
Early departure to Swat with visit to Takht-e-Bai, an ancient Buddhist monastery and archaeological site in Mardan district. Explore remains including stupas, shrines, and courtyards with panoramic views of Mardan city. Journey showcases Pakistan's countryside, history, and cultural landmarks.
Breathtaking journey offering views of Kunar River Valley, majestic Hindu Kush Mountains, and enchanting Kalash Valley. Encounter picturesque waterfalls, serene rivers, charming villages, Nagar Fort, Ayun, and Chitral River showcasing local culture and lifestyle.
Early drive through Chitral City with stunning views of Tirich Mir, highest peak of Hindu Kush. Continue through Mastuj and scenic drive via Harchin and Sore Laspur to Shandur Pass. Pass lush valleys, rivers, charming villages like Boni and Meragam along Yarkhun River.
Experience the famous July Shandur Polo Festival at world's highest polo ground. Three days of thrilling activities, delicious camping meals, vibrant cultural displays, colorful folk songs, dances, and exciting freestyle polo matches between Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral teams.
Enjoy colorful festival activities celebrating different cultures and traditions. Every event has its own beauty and unique taste, immersing visitors in the rich heritage and festivities of the region.
The most interesting day featuring the final polo match between Chitral and Gilgit teams. This day is the top attraction and main interest for spectators, creating an unforgettable climax to the festival experience.
Memorable drive through breathtaking Phander Valley with lush greenery, blue lakes, and crystal-clear rivers. Stop for photos and fresh trout tasting from Phander River. Overnight in cozy Gupis hotel, a charming junction offering stunning views of two rivers confluence.
Visit breathtaking Yasin Valley with deep historical significance from Tibetan rule (747-752 BC). Explore Yasin Fort and Mudori Fort with panoramic valley views. Stroll through charming villages experiencing warm local hospitality. Gateway to remarkable trekking routes linking Ishkoman and Chitral.
Journey through picturesque Ghizer villages, the 'Land of Lakes,' along serene Ghizer River. Explore Ishkoman Valley's captivating landscapes including Enmit Valley, gateway to Wakhan Corridor and Korumbar Lake trekking route. Visit Dain Waterfall and experience traditional homes and local culture.
Helpful answers
Valid passport with 6 months remaining validity and Pakistan visa required for all nationalities. Apply online at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/ under MOUNTAINEERING & TREKKING category, sub-category CULTURE TOUR. Letter of invitation provided by our office.
Yes, mandatory insurance policy for accidents, medical and helicopter evacuation covering at least $30,000 due to strenuous nature of trip. We recommend SafetyWing Travel Insurance with online services without hassles.
Western dress acceptable in cities like Islamabad, but full dress covering body required in remote regions including Skardu and festival areas for cultural respect.
What to know
- Festival held annually in July during second week
- Flights to Chitral subject to weather conditions, two flights per week
- Surface transfer provided if flight cancelled
- Accommodation on twin/double sharing basis
- Single supplement charges apply for single rooms
- Trip starts and ends in Islamabad
- Licensed guide, cook, and porters included
- Pre and post night reservations available
- People with serious heart conditions
- Those with severe respiratory problems
- Travelers without proper travel insurance
- People unable to handle high altitude (3,700m)
- Those requiring special dietary restrictions
- Travelers with mobility limitations
- People uncomfortable with basic camping facilities
- Those expecting luxury accommodations throughout
- Travelers unable to walk on uneven terrain
- People with severe altitude sickness history
- Valid passport with 6 months validity
- Pakistan visa and travel insurance documents
- Sleeping bags and personal trekking gear
- Personal clothing suitable for mountain weather
- Camera for stunning landscape photography
- Personal medications and first aid kit
- Warm clothing for high altitude camping
- Comfortable hiking boots and walking shoes
- Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat)
- Personal toiletries and hygiene items
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