Play Polo at High Altitude

Play Polo at High Altitude: 3700 Meter Above Sea Level

Polo - The Game of Kings
Passion for Polo will be the highest on the world’s highest Polo ground. Every year Shandur 3,700 meters above sea level invites visitors to experience a traditional polo tournament between the teams of Chitral and Gilgit from 7th to 9th July. The festival also includes folk music, folk dance, traditional sports and camping village is be set up on the pass.

It is a place unique and exotic in itself, surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. The event marks the annual rivalry between the polo teams of Gilgit and Chitral. Supporters of both sides travel long distances from the remote parts, to watch the thrilling game. The event offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the people of this region. Their culture and indigenous customs are a delight to observe for the visitors.

Some added attractions for the visitors at the Shandur Polo Festival for the year will be: horse racing without saddles, tampooq bazi, selection of the best horse of Chitral and the Northern Areas, paragliding and motorized gliding. Visitors will also witness a beautiful display of fireworks by an international company, known for their recent work at the Olympic Torch ceremony held in Islamabad .

History
Polo is an equestrian sport with its origin embedded in Central Asia dating back to 6th century BC. At first it was a training game for cavalry units of the King’s guards or other elite troops. To the warlike tribesmen who played polo with an many as 100 players to a side, it was a miniature battle. It became a Persian national game in the 6th Century AD. From Persia, the game spread to Arabia, then to Tibet, China and Japan. In China in the year 910, death of a favorite relative in a game prompted Emperor Apao-Chi to order beheading of all players.

Adorning their best and most brightly colored costumes the local tribesmen celebrate the polo festival with folk dance and music. Ancient Persian artist depicted polo as an equestrian ballet and even today the local polo players are also the best dancers.

The scenery here is in keeping with the breathtaking fury of the game. The famous Shandur Top overlooks the scenic Shandur Lake , encompassed by towering snowcapped mountains. So amidst music, festivities and awe-inspiring natural beauty, the glory of polo lives on.