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Nestled in the heart of the Hindukush range, Shandur Pass is often hailed as the “Roof of the World.” This breathtaking pass is not just a geographical marvel but also a cultural and historical treasure, offering an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and rich traditions. Known for hosting the world-famous Shandur Polo Festival, this enchanting destination is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike.
Shandur Pass is strategically situated between Chitral District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Ghizer District of Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan. It connects the valleys of Chitral and Gilgit, making it a crucial link between these regions.
At an impressive altitude of approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) above sea level, Shandur Pass is one of the highest polo grounds in the world. This elevated location offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys.
Shandur Pass is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The region’s unique alpine ecosystem supports various species of wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot animals like the Himalayan ibex, snow leopard, and various species of birds, including the golden eagle and the Himalayan monal.
The culture around Shandur Pass is a vibrant tapestry of traditions from the Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan regions. The annual Shandur Polo Festival is a highlight, showcasing not only the thrilling game of polo but also traditional music, dance, and local crafts. This festival is a celebration of the area’s rich cultural heritage and draws visitors from around the globe.
The best time to visit Shandur Pass is from late June to early August, coinciding with the Shandur Polo Festival. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the pass is accessible. The festival itself, usually held in the first week of July, is the perfect opportunity to experience the region’s culture and natural beauty at its finest.
Here’s a glimpse of the average monthly temperatures at Shandur Pass:
| Month | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | -8 | -20 |
| February | -6 | -18 |
| March | -2 | -14 |
| April | 2 | -9 |
| May | 8 | -2 |
| June | 12 | 2 |
| July | 15 | 5 |
| August | 14 | 4 |
| September | 10 | 0 |
| October | 4 | -6 |
| November | -2 | -12 |
| December | -6 | -18 |
The average temperature at Shandur Pass varies greatly throughout the year, with summer months being mild and winter months extremely cold. The annual average temperature hovers around -2°C, making it a chilly yet exhilarating destination.
Shandur Pass offers a plethora of activities for visitors:
Shandur Pass is accessible by road from both Chitral and Gilgit. From Chitral, it is approximately 147 kilometers and can be reached via the Chitral-Mastuj road. From Gilgit, it is about 211 kilometers via the Gilgit-Ghizer road. During the summer months, public transport services operate between these points, making it easier for travelers to reach the pass.
For those seeking an adventure of a lifetime, Shandur Pass is the perfect destination. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a range of activities, it promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
The game of kings and king of games. The traditional polo tournament played between Chitral and Gilgit teams in July 5-8 as calendar event.
According to annals of history the first polo tournament played at Shandur was in 1936, since then every year a grand polo tournament takes place at Shandur pass Among the teams of Chitral and Northern Areas. In Northern Areas it is the most famous and traditional game being played by centuries.
Here Polo played in its primitive virgin that is without rules or empire, a game with only a few agreed convention played to the music band comprising drums. The music is provided by traditional musicians. Their instruments consist of a big drum, one or two kettle drums and a long pipe called surnai.
When a goal is scored a special tune which would be played only to that individual whenever he carried the Tambuq towards his opponents goal. When a team scores a goal, instead of the ball being thrown in the middle of the ground by an empire,a player from the team who made the last goal starts off at full gallop from one corner of the ground, with the spectators in full roar from the boundary walls along with a special tune to passion the player, In his right hand he holds both his stick and the polo ball, delicately gripped by only his thumb and fore finger, while his favorite tune is being played at full blast by the musicians. As he comes to the center of the field he throws the ball in to the air and strikes it a mighty blow with his polo stick before the ball falls to the ground. This is the skill of best player.
Shandur Polo Festival is held every year first week July.
Polo in Northern Areas is played with five players each side. Riders do not generally wear helmets. Every polo player is out there to demonstrate his tartar blood. There are no rules so there are no umpires.
The only common practice to international polo is the loud abuses that partners yell at one another. The polo stick is used as a scimitar, not a piece of sports equipment; you can whip or hook your opponent horse if it responds poorly to your whip. A bandaged head, a bruised elbow or an injured horse are sign of a good match.
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