Shandur Polo Festival
Shandur Polo Festival: The Highest Polo Ground on Earth
The Shandur Polo Festival is one of the most exciting and unique cultural events in Pakistan, attracting thousands of locals and international tourists every year. Held at the Shandur Pass, which sits at an altitude of 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) above sea level, the event combines thrilling polo matches with breathtaking natural beauty, cultural festivities, and a festive atmosphere.
Location
- Shandur Pass: Located between Chitral in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, Shandur Pass connects the two regions.
- It is often referred to as the “Roof of the World” due to its high altitude and panoramic views.
Historical Background
- Polo has been played in the region for centuries and is deeply rooted in the culture of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.
- The festival was first organized in 1936 under the direction of Major Evelyn Cobb, the then British political agent, who encouraged the locals to compete and celebrate the sport.
- The game has retained its traditional rules, and Shandur Pass has since become an iconic venue for this annual celebration of polo and culture.
When Does It Happen?
- The Shandur Polo Festival is held every year in the first week of July (usually from July 7th to July 9th).
- This time of year offers pleasant weather, clear skies, and lush green surroundings, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
The Polo Matches
- Polo at Shandur is unlike modern polo games. It is a traditional freestyle polo, played with passion, energy, and no strict rules.
- Teams: The festival features teams primarily from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, representing a historic rivalry.
- Match Details:
- Matches are played on a vast, rugged natural polo ground, surrounded by stunning mountains.
- Each match is fast-paced, full of excitement, and highly physical, with players displaying incredible horse-riding skills.
Cultural and Festive Activities
In addition to polo matches, the festival offers a wide range of cultural and recreational activities:
- Traditional Music and Dance
- Local artists perform traditional Chitrali, Balti, and Gilgit folk music.
- Traditional dances like Attan and Sword Dances entertain the crowd.
- Camping and Bonfires
- Visitors set up camps near the polo ground, and nights are filled with bonfires, storytelling, and music.
- Local Handicrafts and Food
- Stalls feature handmade crafts, shawls, rugs, and jewelry from Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.
- Tourists can enjoy local dishes like Chapshuro, Kabuli Pulao, Trout Fish, and apricot-based desserts.
- Paragliding and Trekking
- Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy paragliding with breathtaking views of the valley.
- Trekking trails around Shandur offer scenic beauty and exploration opportunities.
Why is the Shandur Polo Festival Unique?
- Highest Polo Ground: Shandur Pass is recognized as the highest polo ground in the world.
- Freestyle Polo: The matches are thrilling and fast-paced, played without formal rules, making it a unique spectacle.
- Natural Beauty: The event takes place amidst snow-capped peaks, green meadows, and crystal-clear streams, creating an unforgettable experience.
- Cultural Heritage: It celebrates centuries-old traditions of polo and fosters unity between the people of Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.
How to Get There
- From Islamabad:
- Take a flight to Chitral or Gilgit.
- From there, travel by road to Shandur Pass via Mastuj (from Chitral) or Gupis (from Gilgit).
- By Road:
- A road trip from Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway offers stunning views but can take 12-15 hours to reach Gilgit or Chitral.
- Jeeps are essential for the rugged terrain leading up to Shandur.
Tips for Visitors
- Dress Warmly: Temperatures drop at night, so pack warm clothes.
- Prepare for Altitude: The high altitude can cause shortness of breath, so acclimatize slowly.
- Bring Essentials: Food, water, tents, and sleeping bags are necessary if you plan to camp.
- Respect Local Traditions: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
Significance
The Shandur Polo Festival is more than a sporting event; it is a celebration of heritage, culture, and unity. It draws attention to the region’s potential for tourism while showcasing the hospitality and resilience of its people. The festival has become a symbol of pride for Pakistan, highlighting the country’s rich traditions and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Conclusion
The Shandur Polo Festival offers a unique blend of adventure, tradition, and natural beauty, making it an experience of a lifetime. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, a culture lover, or a nature admirer, this festival promises to leave you with unforgettable memories. Mark your calendar and prepare to witness the magic of Shandur, the Roof of the World!