Shandur Polo Festival: On the Roof of the World

Depart Islamabad and journey through the lush plains of Mardan toward Swat Valley, often called the “Switzerland of the East.” En route, visit the Takht-i-Bahi Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved remnants of the Gandhara civilization. Its ancient stupas and monastic courtyards whisper stories of devotion and peace. Continue through rolling green hills to reach Swat by evening, where you’ll rest amid alpine serenity.

Travel Distance: 230 km
Travel Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Main Attraction: Takht-i-Bahi Buddhist Monastery, scenic drive to Swat
Accommodation: Hotel in Swat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drive toward the legendary Kalash Valleys, home to one of the most ancient and fascinating cultures on Earth. The journey unfolds through winding mountain roads and dramatic gorges, revealing landscapes that shift from forested valleys to stark cliffs. By afternoon, arrive in Bumburet Valley, where wooden homes line terraced slopes and women in colorful robes tend to fields. As dusk falls, stroll through the village, the air alive with the scent of cedar and sound of distant laughter.

Travel Distance: 260 km
Travel Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Scenic drive through the Hindu Kush, arrival in Kalash Valley
Accommodation: Guesthouse or hotel in Kalash Valley
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart the Kalash Valley after breakfast and journey deeper into the mountains toward Mastuj, a peaceful highland village at the confluence of the Yarkhun and Laspur rivers. The route traverses unpaved, winding roads, with panoramic views of untouched landscapes. By evening, arrive at your guesthouse surrounded by meadows and peaks. Spend a quiet evening walking along the riverbanks or sipping tea as stars appear over the Hindu Kush.

Travel Distance: 120–130 km
Travel Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Mountain drive through Yarkhun and Laspur Valleys, arrival in Mastuj
Accommodation: Guesthouse or hotel in Mastuj
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascend to Shandur Pass, the “Roof of the World,” where polo is played at 3,700 meters above sea level. The Shandur Polo Festival begins with exhilarating matches between the teams of Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan, a contest of courage, speed and passion. Watch as riders thunder across the grassy plain, surrounded by mountains that touch the sky. Music, folk dances and the laughter of thousands echo through the plateau.

Travel Distance: 55–60 km
Travel Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
Main Attraction: Shandur Polo Festival – first day of matches and festivities
Accommodation: Tented camp at Shandur Pass
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake to a crisp mountain morning and another thrilling day at the festival. Today’s final matches bring the competition to its climax as rival teams battle for honor. Between games, explore the Shandur Plateau where wildflowers bloom beneath the snowline and alpine lakes reflect endless skies. As night falls, enjoy cultural performances and local food around campfires beneath a canopy of stars.

Travel Distance: Minimal local movement
Travel Time: Short walks or local transfers
Main Attraction: Shandur Polo final matches, Cultural activities, Mountain scenery
Accommodation: Tented camp at Shandur Pass
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Bid farewell to Shandur and drive toward the tranquil Phander Valley, a hidden gem of turquoise lakes and sweeping meadows. The road winds past remote villages and shimmering streams. Arrive by afternoon and check into your lakeside guesthouse, where reflections of mountains dance upon still waters. Spend the evening walking along the Ghizer River, a moment of quiet after days of celebration.

Travel Distance: 70–80 km
Travel Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Main Attraction: Phander Lake, Ghizer River, Alpine scenery
Accommodation: Guesthouse or hotel in Phander
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Journey from Phander through the emerald Ghizer Valley to reach Gilgit, the lively capital of Gilgit-Baltistan. Follow winding roads where rivers flash silver beneath towering cliffs. On arrival, explore the Kargah Buddha, a 7th-century rock carving, and wander through Gilgit’s bustling bazaars filled with gemstones and local crafts.

Travel Distance: 170–190 km
Travel Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Ghizer Valley, Kargah Buddha, Gilgit exploration
Accommodation: Hotel in Gilgit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Set out along the fabled Karakoram Highway, where every turn reveals peaks that pierce the heavens. Marvel at Rakaposhi (7,788 m) and the meeting point of the world’s three greatest mountain ranges, the Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush. Arrive in Hunza, the valley of legends and visit Baltit Fort, standing proudly over Karimabad.

Travel Distance: 100 km
Travel Time: Approx. 2–3 hours
Main Attraction: Karakoram Highway, Rakaposhi Viewpoint, Baltit Fort
Accommodation: Hotel in Hunza (Karimabad)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Explore Altit Fort, Hunza’s oldest stronghold, beautifully restored to tell stories of royal life and valley traditions. Walk through Altit village, where cobblestone alleys lead past apricot trees and traditional homes. The afternoon is free for exploration, shopping for handicrafts, or sipping apricot tea with locals.

Travel Distance: Minimal local movement
Travel Time: Short walks and village visits
Main Attraction: Altit Fort, village exploration, local culture
Accommodation: Hotel in Hunza (Karimabad)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, drive or hike to Eagle Nest, Hunza’s most iconic viewpoint. From here, gaze upon the mighty peaks of Ultar, Ladyfinger and Diran, their jagged silhouettes glowing in morning light. The rest of the day invites quiet reflection or exploration at your own pace, surrounded by some of Earth’s most awe-inspiring scenery.

Travel Distance: 15 km round trip
Travel Time: Approx. 30–40 minutes
Main Attraction: Panoramic views from Eagle’s Nest
Accommodation: Hotel in Hunza (Karimabad)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart Hunza and drive south along the Karakoram Highway, retracing your path through mountain gorges and past the mighty Indus River. Pause at the Nanga Parbat viewpoint (8,126 m) for photographs of the ninth-highest peak in the world. Arrive in Chilas by evening and explore nearby ancient petroglyphs, silent witnesses to millennia of travelers.

Travel Distance: 270–290 km
Travel Time: Approx. 7–8 hours
Main Attraction: Karakoram Highway, Nanga Parbat viewpoint
Accommodation: Hotel in Chilas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin your return journey along the Indus, where the mountains slowly give way to fertile plains. Reflect on the adventure as you pass through the Kohistan region, where the road carves between sheer cliffs and roaring rivers. By evening, arrive in Islamabad for a farewell dinner celebrating the stories and friendships forged on this unforgettable journey.

Travel Distance: 460–470 km
Travel Time: Approx. 10–12 hours
Main Attraction: Scenic descent from the Karakoram to the plains
Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your transfer to Islamabad International Airport. As you depart, carry with you the rhythm of polo hooves on Shandur’s grass, the laughter of mountain hosts and the quiet majesty of Pakistan’s northern frontiers.

Have a safe flight!

This trip requires a moderate fitness level, with some walking on uneven terrain and high-altitude travel. No trekking experience is necessary.

You’ll enjoy a mix of comfortable guesthouses, local lodges, and camping under the stars at Shandur Pass for an authentic mountain experience.

Yes, most meals are included. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Pakistani cuisine at local restaurants and accommodations.

Yes, please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

The Shandur Pass lies at 3,700 meters (12,139 ft). We gradually ascend to help you acclimatize comfortably. Staying hydrated and resting well will minimize altitude effects.

 Yes. Venus Trails’ all-women-led team ensures a safe, supportive, and empowering environment throughout the journey.

 Days are sunny and mild, while nights can be cold at higher altitudes. Temperatures range between 25°C during the day and 5°C at night.

 Respect local traditions by dressing modestly, seeking permission before photographing people, and engaging respectfully in conversations and cultural activities.

Venus Trails aims to plant 5 trees per traveler, minimizes plastic waste, and collaborates with local communities to ensure tourism directly benefits people and the environment.