The annual Shandur Polo Festival 2026 has officially begun at Shandur, widely recognized as the world’s highest polo ground, attracting players, tourists, and sports enthusiasts from across Pakistan.
The three-day festival is being organized jointly by the governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, with support from the Pakistan Army. The event is regarded as one of the country’s most prominent cultural and sporting festivals, promoting tourism and regional heritage.
Governor KP Inaugurates Festival
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi inaugurated the festival as chief guest during the opening ceremony.
Speaking at the event, the governor described the Shandur Polo Festival as an important platform for promoting national unity, cultural harmony, and tourism in Pakistan’s northern regions.
Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan Renew Traditional Rivalry
The opening day featured a much-anticipated polo match between traditional rivals Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Spectators gathered in large numbers to watch the contest and applauded the performances of both teams, continuing a rivalry that has become a hallmark of the annual festival.
Cultural Activities and Tourism Attractions
Alongside polo matches, visitors witnessed a paragliding demonstration that added to the festival’s attractions and drew significant attention from attendees.
The event is expected to continue for three days, welcoming tourists, local communities, and sports fans to one of Pakistan’s most scenic and culturally significant destinations.
Held at an altitude of more than 12,000 feet, the Shandur Polo Festival remains a major showcase of traditional freestyle polo and mountain tourism.
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