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Shandur Polo: The Heights of Heritage

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Price
From$5,680
Price
From$5,680
December 12, 2026
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Arrival: Islamabad
Departure: Islamabad
Duration: 14 Days 13 Nights
Activity : Culture, Heritage & Discovery
Activity Level : Moderate Walking Explore cultural sites, local traditions, and heritage landmarks.
Comfort Level : Premium Explore cultural sites, local traditions, and heritage landmarks.
Max People : 15
Min Age : 12+
Departure : Guaranteed with a min. of 2 guests
Overview
Itinerary
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Your Journey, Your Way
Trip Notes
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Shandur Polo: The Heights of Heritage

Sustainability &
Climate Action

Empowering Women

Women’s Empowerment
& Girls Education

Community Engagement

Community Engagement &
Development

Cultural Heritage

Cultural Heritage
Protection

We believe travel can do more than open your eyes to new landscapes and cultures. It can create meaningful change, support communities, and leave a positive imprint on the world. Every journey we craft carries a deeper purpose — one that connects travelers with the people, places, and causes that truly matter. Learn More

🌍

Selected journeys are guided by women or contribute profits to girls’ education and organizations helping women rebuild their lives.

✈

Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests.

💵

Prices are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy.

🛌

Single Supplement Optional.

Shandur Polo: The Heights of Heritage

Every summer, the remote northern reaches of Pakistan host a spectacle unlike any other: the Shandur Polo Festival. Played at 3,700 meters on the world’s highest polo ground, this event is a celebration of courage, tradition, and mountain life.

From the vibrant Kalash Valleys to the turquoise waters of Phander Lake, and onward to Hunza’s legendary peaks, this 14-day journey blends thrilling sport, cultural immersion, and unforgettable scenery. Camp beneath stars, meet artisans, explore ancient forts, and witness landscapes that defy imagination.

  Highlights

Polo Among the Peaks
Witness freestyle polo at Shandur Pass, where Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan teams clash in an exhilarating, no-rules spectacle.
Northern Valleys Expedition
Explore Swat, Chitral, Phander, and Hunza, tracing ancient trade routes and hidden villages.
Kalash Cultural Immersion
Engage with the Kalash people, learning about their vibrant customs and pagan heritage.
Scenic Marvels
Turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and snow-capped summits frame every day.
Starlit Festival Nights
Camp on Shandur Plateau under skies ablaze with stars, celebrating with drums, dance, and laughter.
Women-Guided Journeys
Travel with VOYATICA’s female guides dedicated to responsible tourism and community connection.

  Why You Will Love This Trip?

  • Witness the highest polo tournament on Earth — adrenaline and tradition at 3,700 meters
  • Explore scenic valleys of northern Pakistan, from Swat to Hunza
  • Engage with diverse communities, from Kalash to Hunza
  • Enjoy authentic mountain experiences including camping, local meals, and fort visits
  • Women-led guidance ensures safe, responsible, and culturally respectful travel
  • Perfect for explorers who crave adventure, storytelling, and immersion in remote landscapes

  Price Includes

Accommodation in handpicked 5-star boutique hotels, heritage palaces, or luxury lodges
Domestic flights (where mentioned in the itinerary)
Daily gourmet breakfast, lunches and selected fine dining experiences as mentioned in the itinerary
Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for all transfers and excursions
Services of expert local guides, historians, and cultural specialists
Exclusive or private access at select sites (where available)
Entrance fees to all listed monuments, museums, and attractions
Airport meet-and-greet and VIP transfers on arrival and departure
All government taxes, service charges, and porterage
Daily bottled water and refreshing towels during sightseeing
24/7 VOYATICA on-ground assistance and concierge support

  Price Excludes

International flights (unless specified)
Visa fees, travel insurance, and vaccinations
Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and spa treatments
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Optional activities or experiences not listed in the program
Early check-in or late check-out (unless pre-arranged)
Additional costs from flight delays, cancellations, or unforeseen events
Photography or filming permits at certain sites
 

Day To Day Itinerary


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Day 1 — Arrival in Islamabad: The Capital’s Charm

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Visit Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, and Lok Virsa Museum, followed by panoramic city views from Daman-e-Koh.

Accommodation: Boutique hotel in Islamabad

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 — Swat Valley: Paths of the Ancients

Travel north to Swat Valley. Explore Takht-i-Bahi Monastery, a UNESCO site reflecting Gandhara’s Buddhist heritage. Arrive in Swat surrounded by alpine serenity.

Accommodation: Hotel in Swat

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 — Kalash Arrival: Valleys of Color

Journey into Bumburet Valley, home to the Kalash people. Stroll through terraced villages, breathing in cedar-scented air, and experience the warmth of mountain community life.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kalash Valley

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 — Mastuj Highlands: Riverbanks and Meadows

Depart Bumburet for Mastuj. Travel along winding roads flanked by dramatic peaks and river valleys. Evening relaxation by riversides and under starry skies.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Mastuj

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 — Shandur Festival Kickoff: The First Matches

Ascend to Shandur Pass, “Roof of the World.” Witness the opening polo matches between Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. Immerse in music, folk dances, and the festive energy of thousands gathered on the plateau.

Accommodation: Tented camp at Shandur Pass

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 — Shandur Celebration: Finals and Festivities

Enjoy the final polo matches, cultural performances, and alpine explorations. Campfires, local food, and starlit nights complete the magical high-altitude festival experience.

Accommodation: Tented camp at Shandur Pass

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 — Phander Valley: Lakeside Serenity

Drive to Phander Valley, a hidden jewel of turquoise waters and rolling meadows. Check into a lakeside guesthouse and enjoy quiet walks along the Ghizer River.

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Phander

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 — Gilgit: The Heart of the North

Travel through Ghizer Valley to Gilgit. Visit the 7th-century Kargah Buddha and explore bustling bazaars offering gemstones and local crafts.

Accommodation: Hotel in Gilgit

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 — Hunza: Legends Among Peaks

Drive along the Karakoram Highway, marvel at Rakaposhi, and arrive in Hunza. Visit Baltit Fort perched over Karimabad, offering a window into royal heritage.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hunza (Karimabad)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 — Altit Fort & Village Life: Traditions Preserved

Explore Altit Fort and wander through cobblestone streets lined with apricot trees. Afternoon at leisure to explore or enjoy tea with locals.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hunza (Karimabad)

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11 — Eagle’s Nest: Peaks and Panorama

Drive or hike to Eagle Nest viewpoint. Gaze upon Ultar, Ladyfinger, and Diran peaks, absorbing Hunza’s dramatic alpine scenery. Afternoon free for personal exploration.

Accommodation: Hotel in Hunza (Karimabad)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 — Chilas: Through the Karakoram

Drive south along the Karakoram Highway. Stop at Nanga Parbat viewpoint, then explore Chilas’ ancient petroglyphs, silent witnesses to millennia of travelers.

Accommodation: Hotel in Chilas

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 — Return to Islamabad: From Mountains to Plains

Descend from the mountains through Kohistan’s sheer cliffs and rivers. Evening arrival in Islamabad for a farewell dinner celebrating the journey’s stories and friendships.

Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 — Departure: Farewell to the North

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport, departing with memories of polo hooves, mountain laughter, and northern Pakistan’s majestic peaks.

Meals: Breakfast

At VOYATICA, every journey is designed to fit your preferences, travel style, and pace. Whether you’re seeking connection, privacy, independence, or shared memories, we offer flexible ways to experience each destination.

Fixed Departure

Join a Fixed Departure

Perfect for travelers who enjoy a structured itinerary and meeting like-minded explorers. Fixed departures follow a thoughtfully curated schedule, highlighting scenic, cultural, and local experiences. Travel with a small group guided by experts for a smooth, immersive journey.

Private Trip

Book a Private Trip

For those who prefer full control, private trips let you design your adventure around your interests. Choose your pace, stays, and activities while our team handles all logistics for a seamless experience.

Solo Travel

Travel Solo

Solo travelers are welcome with flexible options for independence and connection. Enjoy safety, comfort, and authentic cultural access while exploring at your own pace with local support.

Friends and Family

Bring Friends & Family

Shared adventures create lasting memories. VOYATICA designs flexible itineraries for families and groups, balancing meaningful group moments with personal space for everyone.

  Packing List

Clothing

  • Base layers, mid-layers, insulated jacket
  • Quick-dry long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Waterproof and windproof outerwear
  • Warm hat, gloves, scarf
  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Sunglasses, cap, sunscreen
  • Modest attire for villages

Travel Essentials

  • Reusable water bottle, water purification tablets
  • Daypack for excursions
  • Power bank, universal adapter
  • Personal toiletries, moisturizer, lip balm
  • First-aid kit

Optional Items

  • Camera, binoculars
  • Lightweight sleeping bag for camping
  • Travel journal

  Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Shandur Polo Festival and why is it unique?
The Shandur Polo Festival is an annual high-altitude polo tournament held at 3,700 meters on the world’s highest polo ground. Teams from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan compete in freestyle polo, a fast-paced, fearless version of the game with no referees or formal rules. The festival is as much a cultural celebration as a sporting event, with music, dance, local food, and community gatherings.
What level of fitness is required for this tour?
This journey is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness. While there is no technical trekking involved, participants should be comfortable with walking on uneven terrain, high-altitude travel, and light physical activity during village and cultural explorations.
What type of accommodations will I stay in during the tour?
Accommodation varies throughout the journey, ranging from charming guesthouses and local lodges to tented camping at Shandur Pass. Each stay is chosen for comfort, warmth, and proximity to the landscapes and cultural sites you will explore.
Are meals included during the tour, and what type of food will be served?
Yes, most meals are included. You will enjoy traditional northern Pakistani cuisine, featuring fresh local ingredients, regional specialties, and warm, hearty dishes suitable for mountain climates. Vegetarian and other dietary options can be arranged in advance.
Can special dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes. Please inform VOYATICA of any dietary requirements ahead of your trip, and our team will ensure that your needs are met wherever possible.
What should I expect regarding high-altitude conditions?
Shandur Pass sits at 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). To help you acclimatize, the itinerary ascends gradually. Staying hydrated, pacing yourself, and resting when needed will minimize altitude effects. Our guides are trained to monitor health and provide support at all stages.
Is this tour safe for women traveling alone or in small groups?
Yes. VOYATICA’s tours are led by experienced women guides who ensure a safe, supportive, and culturally respectful environment throughout the journey. Accommodation, transportation, and activities are carefully chosen with traveler safety in mind.
What kind of weather should I prepare for during the tour?
Northern Pakistan’s summer offers sunny days and cool nights. At high altitudes, daytime temperatures can reach around 25°C, while nights may drop to 5°C or lower. Layered clothing and warm outerwear are essential, along with sun protection for daytime excursions.
Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of?
Yes. Respect for local traditions is essential. Dress modestly, particularly in villages and religious sites. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, and participate in cultural activities with curiosity and respect. Your engagement with communities should be thoughtful and considerate.
How does this trip support sustainable and responsible tourism?
VOYATICA integrates sustainability into every journey. We plant trees for each traveler, minimize single-use plastics, and work directly with local communities to ensure tourism benefits both people and the environment. Cultural preservation and environmental stewardship are core to every activity and interaction on this tour.

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