Shandur Polo Festival gets underway today

By Shah Murad Baig
June 20, 2025
Players in action during the final match of Shandur Polo Festival between Chitral and Gilgit teams. — APP/File
Players in action during the final match of Shandur Polo Festival between Chitral and Gilgit teams. — APP/File

CHITRAL: The three-day Shandur Polo Festival is set to begin at the world’s highest polo ground in Shandur today(Friday).

Officials in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan said that all preparations for the festival have been completed. A tent village has been established at the venue to accommodate guests, and the polo ground has been beautifully decorated for the event.

Teams from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan - five from each side - will face off in thrilling matches over the course of the festival. On the final day, the A-teams of Chitral and Gilgit will compete in the main event. Though Chitral has been emerging victorious since 2012, a tough competition is expected this time keeping in view the preparations of GB polio team.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is expected to inaugurate the festival.Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports suggest that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif may attend the closing ceremony as the chief guest.

In addition to the polo matches, the festival will feature various cultural shows, paragliding, boating in Shandur Lake, and other recreational activities. Hundreds of domestic and international tourists have already arrived in Shandur, with more continuing to make their way from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Local markets in Lower Chitral are witnessing a significant increase in tourist activity. To ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors, comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place.