Shandur Polo Festival & Northern Pakistan Adventure

17 Days 16 Nights

Travel Style: Sight Seeing & Adventure

Preffered Time: July

Travel: By Road & 4x4

Description

The Shandur Polo Festival is one of Pakistan’s most exhilarating cultural spectacles—played on the world’s highest polo ground at 12,200 feet. Each July, teams from Chitral and Gilgit face off in a thrilling, traditional match surrounded by snow-capped peaks and endless alpine meadows.

This 17-day expedition immerses travelers in the vibrant landscapes and diverse cultures of northern Pakistan—from the mystical Kalash Valleys to the tranquil Phander Lakes and the legendary valleys of Hunza. Along the way, witness architectural relics, ancient forts, and breathtaking mountain vistas including Nanga Parbat, Babusar Top, and Lulusar Lake. The journey blends festival energy, cultural encounters, and serene beauty into one unforgettable adventure.

  • Experience the world’s highest polo festival at Shandur Pass
  • Explore the cultural heart of Chitral and Kalash Valleys
  • Discover Phander, Yasin & Hunza Valleys’ lakes and forts
  • Cross the majestic Babusar Pass and see Nanga Parbat viewpoint
  • Visit UNESCO-listed archaeological wonders at Taxila
  • Enjoy local traditions, crafts, and cuisines of Northern Pakistan

Arrive in Islamabad and begin your journey with a relaxed exploration of the capital. Visit the Faisal Mosque, one of Asia’s largest, and wander through the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum to get a sense of Pakistan’s cultural mosaic. End the day with a visit to Saidpur Village, a restored Mughal-era hamlet with a timeless mountain backdrop, before returning to your hotel for rest.

Begin the scenic drive north toward the Chitral region, traversing mountain passes and valleys through the Lowari Tunnel, one of Pakistan’s great engineering feats. Reach Ayun Village, beautifully located along the Chitral River, surrounded by walnut and apricot trees. Evening at leisure in this peaceful valley, known as the gateway to Kalash.

Take a 4x4 excursion to Bamburet Valley, one of the three famous Kalasha valleys. Experience the unique polytheistic traditions, colorful attire, and wooden architecture of the Kalash people, descendants of an ancient culture. Visit the Kalash Museum to better understand their mythology and rituals before returning to Ayun by evening.

Depart Ayun and explore Chitral Gol National Park, home to the markhor and golden eagle. Continue to BirMughlasht, a vantage point offering panoramic views of the Hindukush peaks and the Chitral Valley. Arrive at Booni, a charming town known for its orchards and expansive views, and settle in for the night.

After breakfast, head deeper into the upper Chitral region towards Mastuj, a historical settlement where ancient trade routes once converged. Visit the Mastuj Fort remains, which whisper stories of frontier battles and royal lineages. Enjoy the calm of the mountain valleys and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Travel to Shandur Pass, where the famous Shandur Polo Festival takes place each summer. Surrounded by snowy peaks and alpine meadows, watch local teams from Gilgit and Chitral compete in traditional freestyle polo—known as the "Game of Kings." The air fills with music, laughter, and the vibrant energy of the mountains. Camp overnight under a sky filled with stars.

Depart Shandur and descend into the lush Phander Valley, a paradise of turquoise rivers and mirror-like lakes. Visit Phander Lake and Barsat village, where the river winds gracefully through green meadows. The valley’s tranquility makes it an ideal place for an evening walk and photography before settling in for the night.

Continue your journey towards Yasin Valley, an ancient settlement steeped in history. Explore the Yasin Fort, remnants of local kingdoms and battles fought for control of the highlands. The landscapes here are dramatic, with jagged peaks and calm streams shaping the valley. Overnight in Yasin.

Spend a relaxing day exploring the Yasin region—interacting with locals, walking along terraced fields, and visiting small village shrines. The Yasin people are known for their warm hospitality and storytelling traditions, making this a peaceful cultural interlude before heading east.

Depart Yasin for Hunza, passing through Khalti Lake, Gahkuch, and Gilgit. Each stop offers breathtaking views and glimpses of life along the Gilgit River. Arrive in Hunza Valley, where the majestic Rakaposhi and Ultar peaks rise over ancient fortresses and apricot orchards.

Spend the day exploring Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, and Ganish Village, which together showcase centuries of Hunza’s architectural and cultural legacy. Stroll through the Karimabad Bazaar, known for gemstones, crafts, and local dried fruits. Sunset views from Baltit Fort make for a memorable evening.

Head north towards Passu Glacier and Borith Lake, walking along the scenic Hussaini Suspension Bridge, known as one of the most thrilling crossings in the world. The drive continues to Attabad Lake, where deep-blue waters fill a dramatic mountain gorge. Overnight stay beside the lake.

Embark on a short trek to Baskochi Meadows, offering panoramic views of the Hunza Valley and surrounding glaciers. Spend the afternoon relaxing by Attabad Lake, enjoying the calm mountain breeze and reflecting on your journey.

Journey south through the Babusar Pass, one of Pakistan’s most scenic mountain routes. Stop at the Thalechi Nanga Parbat viewpoint and Lulusar Lake, where turquoise waters glisten amid snow-capped peaks. Arrive at Batakundi by evening for a tranquil night’s rest.

Descend along the Kaghan Valley, tracing the Kunhar River through alpine forests and riverside villages. Stop for breaks in Naran and Balakot before reaching Khanpur Lake, a peaceful destination perfect for a celebratory dinner and reflection.

Visit the ancient archaeological treasures of Taxila, including the Taxila Museum, Dharmarajika Stupa, and Sirkap Ruins. Explore Mohdu Moraru, another fascinating Buddhist site that illustrates the region’s connection to the Silk Road. Return to Islamabad by evening.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning in Islamabad before your transfer to the airport. The Shandur Polo Festival adventure concludes with unforgettable memories of culture, landscapes, and high-mountain spirit.

Looking for a trip that’s tailored to your needs?

Have us create a private trip that’s just for you - with your preferred date, activities, accommodations & destinations.

More from Adventures

Shandur Polo Festival & Northern Pakistan Adventure