Shandur polo jeep safari

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 for the King’s guards or other elite troops. To the warlike tribesmen who played polo with as many as 100 players to aside, 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 be heading of all players! Passion for Polo will be the highest on the world’s highest Polo ground. Shandor invites visitors to experience a traditional polo tournament between the teams of Chitral and Gilgit during the 2nd week of July.

Shandoor Annual Polo Tournament

The first time a polo tournament took place at the Shandor Pass, was in 1936. A British Political Agent, Major Cobb, who was fond of playing polo under a full moon, had the polo ground near Shandor, named, “Moony Polo Ground”. The most exciting polo tournament of entire Northern Pakistan is played on top of Shandor Pass, around 3,700 meters above sea level. 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. The Polo tournament has some added attractions for the visitors; trout fishing at the nearby streams and lakes and a festival of folk dances and music of Northern Pakistan. The highlight of the festival is the final match between the Gilgit and Chitral teams. The final provides the most colorful spectacle. Supporters of both sides travel long distances from the remote parts of Chitral and Gilgit, to watch the thrilling game. The event, as such, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the people of this region. Their culture and indigenous customs are a delight to behold for the visitors.