Every July, something extraordinary happens high up in the mountains of northern Pakistan: the Shandur Polo Festival. Played on the world’s highest polo ground at 3,700 meters, this event is more than just a sports match—it’s a cultural celebration where music, dance, and centuries-old traditions come together against the backdrop of stunning alpine scenery.
On this unforgettable 10-day journey, we’ll take you through the vibrant Kalash Valleys, the historic town of Chitral, and finally to the iconic Shandur Pass, where the festival takes place. You’ll witness fierce freestyle polo matches between arch-rivals Gilgit and Chitral, camp under a blanket of stars, and experience the warmth of mountain communities whose traditions are as rich as the landscapes they call home.
This is not just a trip—it’s a deep dive into the heart of Pakistan’s cultural and natural treasures.
Our journey begins with a scenic drive from Islamabad toward the lush green Swat Valley. En route, we stop at the ancient Takht-e-Bahi Buddhist Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers deep insight into the region’s Gandhara past.
Drive time: 8–10 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Swat
We continue north through winding mountain roads and breathtaking valleys to reach the Kalash Valley. This region is home to the indigenous Kalasha people, known for their distinct culture, traditions, and beliefs that have survived for centuries.
Drive time: ~6 hours
Overnight: Guesthouse in Bumburet (Kalash Valley)
A full day to explore Bumburet, the largest of the three Kalash valleys. Visit traditional Kalasha homes, learn about their mythology, customs, and daily life. If there is a local celebration or gathering, guests may observe or participate respectfully.
Activities: Guided village walk, cultural interaction
Overnight: Guesthouse in Bumburet
Drive to Chitral, a historic town surrounded by the Hindu Kush mountains. Visit the Shahi Mosque, Chitral Fort, and explore the local bazaar. A short visit to the Chitral Museum provides an overview of the region’s ethnic diversity and history.
Drive time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Chitral
Today’s drive takes us deeper into the remote north toward Mastuj, passing small villages, rivers, and high mountain scenery. This region remains largely untouched and offers a true sense of northern Pakistan’s rural life.
Drive time: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Guesthouse in Mastuj
We drive to the legendary Shandur Pass (3,700 meters), known as the world’s highest polo ground. Upon arrival, we settle into our campsite as the Shandur Polo Festival begins, with folk music, cultural performances, and a lively atmosphere.
Drive time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Camping at Shandur Polo Ground
The highlight of the tour. Witness the famous freestyle polo match between Gilgit and Chitral—played without umpires and with minimal rules, showcasing raw skill and tradition. Enjoy cultural festivities and interaction with locals from both regions.
Highlights: Polo matches, cultural shows, community interaction
Overnight: Camping at Shandur
After breakfast, we descend from Shandur Pass and travel back toward Chitral. The evening is free to relax after the 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 the unique Shandur Polo Festival.
Drive time: 8–9 hours
Tour Ends
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
+92 347 4598096
info@rockvalleytours.com
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.
If you’re traveling to Pakistan, you’ll need a visa. Depending on your nationality, you can get it on arrival or apply online before your trip. You can also go to your local Pakistani embassy for a tourist visa. The length of stay varies: e-visas can be up to 3 months (extendable to 6 months), while visas on arrival are valid for 30 days. Make sure to check visa requirements with the authorities, as they might change.
In Pakistan, what you wear depends on when and where you’re going. In hot areas, wear light, loose clothes like a shirt and trousers. For cold places, bring warm clothes like a jacket and layers. When visiting mosques, cover your head, arms, legs, and shoulders. Dress modestly and avoid shorts. If you’re unsure, it’s best to dress conservatively.
June–September: Monsoon season with unpredictable rains, reaching over 45°C (113°F) in June. Floods can occur.
October/November: Post-monsoon season with decreasing temperatures and rainfall. Days are warm, nights cool.
December–February: Winter months with pleasant daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and colder nights, especially in the northern mountains where it snows.
March–May: Hot and dry season with temperatures in the mid-30s°C (95°F) in low-lying areas, getting hotter towards the north.
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).
Here’s a quick checklist:
Warm clothing (especially for Shandur nights)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunblock, sunglasses, hat
Personal medication
Small backpack for day use
Camera/phone for photos
A detailed packing list will be shared before departure.
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.
