12D 11N Shandur Polo Festival Tour
Experience raw mountain beauty, living heritage, and the thrill of polo above the clouds
Price Per Person
starting at
$2200
12
Islamabad
Min 2 Max 10 Pax
June
Islamabad
Journey Highlights
Set out on a beautifully crafted journey through Pakistan’s northern landscapes in a comfortable 4×4 Prado—where adventure, culture, and natural beauty come together effortlessly. Feel the thrill of the Shandur Polo Festival at Shandur Pass, connect with the unique traditions of the Kalash people in Bumburet Valley, and step into history at Chitral Fort.
Unwind in the peaceful charm of Phander Valley, travel along breathtaking routes via Babusar Pass and Lulusar Lake, and end your journey in the calm, elegant city of Islamabad. It’s a trip that blends raw mountain beauty with comfort in the most natural way.
Highlights of your trip
- Roof of Polo Spectacle — Witness the electrifying grand finale of the Shandur Polo Festival at Shandur Pass, where Gilgit and Chitral teams clash in a raw, no-rules contest at 3,700m.
- 4×4 Prado Overland Journey — Traverse Pakistan’s most dramatic terrains in a premium 4×4 Prado, ensuring comfort, safety, and access to remote mountain frontiers.
- Immersion in Kalash Culture — Explore the unique traditions of the Kalash people in Bumburet Valley, including vibrant attire, rituals, and centuries-old animistic beliefs.
- Kalasha Dur Museum Experience — Discover rare ethnographic treasures at the Kalasha Dur Museum, preserving one of the world’s most distinct indigenous cultures
- Ayun Fort & Valley Vistas — Enjoy a scenic lunch at Ayun Fort, offering panoramic views over lush valleys and river landscapes.
- Royal Legacy of Chitral — Step into history at Chitral Fort and the elegant Shahi Mosque of Chitral, once the seat of a princely state.
- High-Altitude Camping at Shandur — Experience exclusive camping under star-filled skies at one of the world’s highest plateaus, complete with bonfires and cultural performances.
- Serenity of Phander Valley — Unwind in the breathtaking Phander Valley, often called “Little Kashmir,” with its lush meadows, river walks, and tranquil ambiance.
- Iconic Northern Landscapes — Capture postcard-perfect views at Lulusar Lake and the majestic Babusar Pass along one of Pakistan’s most scenic routes.
- Capital City Contrast — Conclude with a refined city tour of Islamabad, visiting landmarks like Faisal Mosque and enjoying sunset views from Daman-e-Koh.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly received by our dedicated representative and escorted to your hotel in the serene capital city of Islamabad. Enjoy a smooth transfer through Islamabad’s wide, tree-lined avenues as you are introduced to one of South Asia’s most organized and scenic cities.
Upon reaching the hotel, proceed with a seamless check-in and take time to relax and unwind after your journey. The remainder of the evening is at leisure, allowing you to settle in comfortably.
A delightful dinner will be served at the hotel, offering a warm introduction to local hospitality. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Note: For late arrivals (after 9:00 PM), freshly prepared pizza will be served to ensure a convenient and satisfying dining experience.
Accommodation: Grand Islamabad Hotel, Islamabad
Begin your day with breakfast in Islamabad. After check-out, depart for Dir, embarking on a scenic drive through the northern plains and into the mountainous landscapes of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
En route, pass through the historic region of Malakand, a strategic gateway to the northern valleys. Stop here for lunch and a short break before continuing your journey.
Continue onward toward Dir, enjoying views of rolling hills, rivers, and rural settlements that define this region’s natural charm.
Upon arrival in Dir, proceed to check in at the hotel. The evening is at leisure to relax after the day’s journey.
Dinner and overnight stay in Dir.
Accommodation: Shelton Rezidor Hotel, Dir
Begin your day with an early breakfast at the hotel before checking out and departing for an extraordinary journey toward the remote Kalash Valley. Travel along scenic mountain roads as you head toward Bumburet Valley, the largest and most vibrant of the Kalash valleys.
En route, pause at the charming Ayun Village—a lush and peaceful settlement often regarded as the gateway to Kalash. Here, enjoy a relaxing lunch at the historic Ayun Fort, surrounded by beautifully maintained botanical gardens. From this vantage point, take in sweeping panoramic views of the valley and the meandering river below.
Continue your journey deeper into the mountains, an authentic and adventurous approach to Kalash territory. Upon arrival in Bumburet, check in at Benazir Hotel and take some time to refresh.
Later, visit the intriguing Kalash graveyard—an evocative site that offers insight into the unique spiritual worldview of the Kalash people. Traditionally, the Kalash practiced open-air funerals, placing their deceased in wooden coffins above ground as part of their animistic beliefs, symbolizing a return to nature and a celebration of life. While modern practices have gradually shifted toward ground burials, these historic graveyards remain as powerful cultural relics.
Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Bumburet, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the valley.
Accommodation: Benazir Hotel, Bumburet
Start your morning with an early breakfast before checking out of your hotel in Bumburet Valley. Your first stop is the renowned Kalasha Dur Museum—a cultural treasure that offers a deep and authentic insight into the Kalash way of life.
The museum houses an impressive collection of approximately 1,300 ethnological artifacts, including traditional attire, intricate beadwork jewelry, ancient tools, and symbolic wooden sculptures. These exhibits vividly reflect the Kalash people’s animistic beliefs, vibrant festivals, and daily life. Supported by the KITE Project, the museum plays a vital role in preserving this rare and endangered heritage.
By late morning, depart for Chitral, traveling through dramatic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before stepping into the region’s royal past with a visit to the historic Chitral Fort.
After breakfast at your hotel in Mastuj, check out and begin your ascent toward the legendary Shandur Pass—one of the highest polo grounds in the world, perched at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level.
The journey itself is a spectacle, winding through dramatic valleys, alpine meadows, and remote villages that reflect the untouched beauty of northern Pakistan. As you gradually gain altitude, the landscape opens into vast plains surrounded by towering peaks—an awe-inspiring introduction to Shandur.
Upon arrival, set up your camps near the iconic polo ground, immersing yourself in the raw wilderness of this high-altitude plateau. Soon after, experience the thrilling atmosphere of the world-famous Shandur Polo Festival, where traditional freestyle polo matches unfold between the historic rivals of Gilgit and Chitral. Played without strict rules, this intense sport embodies pride, heritage, and centuries-old rivalry.
As night falls, gather around a lively bonfire under a sky filled with stars. Enjoy traditional music and cultural performances that bring the spirit of the mountains to life—an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and celebration.
Overnight stay in camps at Shandur Pass, surrounded by pristine wilderness and the echoes of polo chants in the mountains.
Accommodation: Camping
Awaken to the crisp mountain air of Shandur Pass and enjoy breakfast at your camp, surrounded by sweeping alpine landscapes. Shortly after, make your way to the iconic polo ground to witness the most anticipated moment of the festival.
Experience the thrilling grand finale of the Shandur Polo Festival, where the elite teams of Gilgit and Chitral face off in a high-intensity, no-rules match. The atmosphere is electric—charged with roaring crowds, rhythmic chants, and a deep sense of regional pride. Set against a dramatic backdrop of rugged peaks and open skies, this is polo in its purest and most exhilarating form.
As the sun dips behind the mountains, return to camp and unwind. A specially curated dinner awaits, offering a warm, refined touch amid the wilderness.
Conclude the day with an exclusive overnight stay at camp beneath a sky illuminated with countless stars—an unforgettable high-altitude experience that perfectly blends adventure, culture, and serenity.
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast at your camp in Shandur Pass, pack up and begin your scenic descent toward the tranquil beauty of Phander Valley. The journey unfolds through dramatic mountain vistas, rolling pastures, and charming settlements—offering a refreshing contrast to the high-altitude wilderness of Shandur.
Upon arrival, check in at The Rover by Roomy and take time to unwind amidst the valley’s peaceful ambiance. Shortly after, head out to explore the stunning Phander Lake—renowned for its crystal-clear, deep blue waters and mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Stroll through the lush green meadows and cultivated fields that have earned Phander the nickname “Little Kashmir”. Walk along the gentle river that winds through the valley, soaking in the calm and unspoiled natural setting.
For those seeking a hands-on experience, an optional trout fishing activity can be arranged at the lake—an authentic highlight of the region. Engage with the warm local community to gain insight into their traditions, lifestyle, and renowned hospitality.
Return to your hotel for dinner, followed by a restful overnight stay in the heart of Phander Valley.
Accommodation: The Rover by Roomy, Phander
After a relaxed breakfast in Phander Valley, check out from your hotel and begin your journey toward Gilgit—the administrative and cultural heart of the region. The drive follows the picturesque Ghizer landscape, tracing the course of the Gilgit River through fertile valleys, small settlements, and rugged mountain backdrops.
As you approach Gilgit, the terrain transitions into a broader valley setting, offering glimpses of bustling bazaars and the town’s unique blend of mountain culture and urban life. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax after the journey.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel, followed by a comfortable overnight stay in Gilgit—preparing for the next chapter of your northern adventure.
Accommodation: Park Hotel, Gilgit
After an early breakfast in Gilgit, check out from your hotel and embark on a spectacular drive toward Naran via one of the most scenic mountain routes in Pakistan.
En route, enjoy a lunch break at New Moon Restaurant, offering a convenient stop amidst the mountains. Continue your journey with a photo stop at the breathtaking Babusar Pass—standing at an elevation of over 4,100 meters, this high-altitude pass presents panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast alpine landscapes.
Descend toward the mesmerizing Lulusar Lake, a pristine body of water known for its deep blue hues and mirror-like reflections. Take time to walk along its shores and capture the serene beauty of this iconic location.
Continue onward to Naran, arriving by evening. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after the long yet rewarding journey.
Dinner will be served at the hotel, followed by an overnight stay in Naran, surrounded by the cool alpine air and the soothing sounds of the valley.
Accommodation: Northern Retreat Hotel, Naran
Begin your day with breakfast in the cool alpine setting of Naran before checking out and departing for Islamabad.
Travel along the scenic Kaghan Valley, following the course of the Kunhar River as the landscape gradually transitions from high mountains to rolling green hills. En route, enjoy a short stop at Balakot for lunch, offering a pleasant break amid riverside surroundings.
Continue your journey toward Islamabad, arriving in the evening. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take time to relax after the drive.
Overnight stay in Islamabad, marking a comfortable return to the capital after an unforgettable northern expedition.
Accommodation: Grand Islamabad Hotel, Islamabad
Begin your morning with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel in Islamabad before setting out to explore the capital’s iconic landmarks and cultural highlights.
Start with a visit to the magnificent Faisal Mosque, an architectural masterpiece set against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills and one of the largest mosques in the world.
Continue to Lok Virsa Museum, a rich cultural repository showcasing Pakistan’s diverse heritage through traditional crafts, artifacts, and regional displays. Then proceed to the iconic Pakistan Monument, symbolizing national unity and offering panoramic views of the city.
Enjoy a vibrant local experience with shopping at G-9 Markaz, where you can browse for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
As the day winds down, head to Daman-e-Koh to witness a breathtaking sunset over Islamabad—an unforgettable view of the city framed by the Margalla Hills.
Return to the hotel for dinner, and overnight stay in the capital.
Accommodation: Grand Islamabad Hotel, Islamabad
Enjoy your final breakfast in Islamabad before checking out of the hotel. With some time at hand, head out for last-minute shopping at the iconic The Centaurus Mall—a premier lifestyle destination offering a wide selection of local and international brands, souvenirs, and gifts.
Enjoy lunch at the 4th-floor food court, where a variety of cuisines provide a perfect final taste of the city. Afterward, proceed to Islamabad International Airport for your departure.
Bid farewell to Pakistan, taking with you unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and remarkable experiences.
TOUR END
Photos & Videos
Details
What's Included
- Pakistan Visa Assistance
- 11 Nights' Accommodation in Twin Sharing
- AC Transport
- Meals (Breakfast and Dinner) as per Itinerary
- English Speaking Tour Guide
- Entry tickets as per the itinerary
- First Aid
- All road tolls and Parking tickets
- Mineral water in the vehicle
What’s excluded
- Any Sort of personal Expenses
- International Flight
- Any kind of beverages, Coffee, Tea
- Insurance
- Tips for guide and driver
- Extras due to Natural Cause or emergency
- Anything that is not mentioned.