Exploring the Thrilling Shandur Polo Festival: A Unique Experience at 3734m Altitude
The exhilarating Shandur Polo Festival unfolds at the awe-inspiring Shandur polo ground, nestled at a breathtaking altitude of 3734 meters. This remarkable event occurs on the border shared by the Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and the Ghizer district of Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan. The festival takes place annually from the 7th to the 9th of July. This festival captivates thousands of enthusiastic spectators, drawing them into the world of the kings’ game – traditional freestyle Polo.
A Unique Polo Experience
The version of the Polo showcased during the Shandur Polo Festival is distinctive to this region. It offers an experience unparalleled anywhere else in the world. For three exhilarating days, domestic and international tourists, ardent supporters from Gilgit and Chitral, organizers, vendors, performers, Polo players, and their magnificent horses come together to create a vibrant makeshift village. The verdant Shandur Pass serves as a spectacular battleground during this festival.
The World’s Highest Polo Ground
The Shandur Polo Ground is renowned as the world’s highest Polo ground. It is encircled by majestic mountain peaks and graced with a serene lake in the backdrop. This breathtaking setting not only enhances the festival’s allure but also provides exciting activities for tourists. The Polo ground, situated in the heart of the pass, measures 200 meters by 56 meters, enclosed by a 60-centimeter-high stone wall. The size of the ground is in contrast to the conventional Polo field’s dimensions of 270 meters by 150 meters. This smaller size adds to the intensity of the game, making it seem crowded for the 12 players who compete at any given time. However, this limitation prevents the horses from extended gallops at such high altitudes.
A Glimpse into History
Polo’s roots trace back to the 6th century BC when it served as a training game for cavalry units of the king’s guards and elite troops in Persia. Originally, Polo boasted up to 100 players on each side, resembling a mini-battle. In the 6th century AD, it became Persia’s national sport and gradually spread to Arabia, Tibet, and China. Tragically, in 910, a game in China led to the death of a cherished relative of Emperor Apao Chi, prompting the gruesome beheading of all players.
In South Asia, Polo arrived in the 13th century, introduced by Muslim conquerors. Over time, it evolved into a more regulated version from its wild beginnings. The contemporary Polo we witness today typically features six players on each side with a distinct lack of rigid rules. The free-style polo is epitomized by the famous saying, “The rule is that there is no rule.” However, the polo festival at Shandur makes one exception, with six players on each side engaging in an intense one-hour match, punctuated by a mere 10-minute break due to the high altitude. This breather comes alive with a traditional dance performance, and the team securing the most goals within the allotted time emerges victorious.
Historical Beginnings
Shandur’s first Polo match occurred in 1936. It was initiated dramatically by Major Evelyn Hey Cobb, the British political agent of the region. Cobb, a Polo enthusiast, ordered Niat Qabool Hayat Kakakhel, a prominent figure, and assistant to the governor from Ghizer district, to construct a Polo Ground in Shandur. This Polo Ground earned the name “Mas Junali,” derived from two Khuwar languages, meaning “Moony Polo Ground.” Impressed by Kakakhel’s efforts, Cobb sought to reward him However, Kakakhel declined and instead asked for trout to be stocked in local streams. Cobb agreed, importing live trout from England, which were released into the River of Ghizer. This visionary move paved the way for the Directorate of Fisheries and job opportunities in the region. Today, Gilgit-Baltistan is also renowned for Trout fishing.
Preparing for Battle
Players and horses from both sides arrive at Shandur weeks before the grand showdown to acclimatize to the high altitude. Preliminary matches in both Chitral and Gilgit determine the best horses and players for the final games, with local judges making their selections during test matches on home grounds.
A Wild Game
Safety measures take a back seat during this wild game. Players rarely wear helmets, donning colorful attire and wielding strapless mallets as they chase the ball vigorously on their horses, often without bandages to protect the steeds from harm. Winning the highly anticipated trophy is a source of immense pride for both teams, making national headlines. Supporters and tourists flock to the venue as soon as the rival teams and their horses make their grand entrance.
Access
Both Gilgit and Chitral districts are accessible by air and road from the capital city of Islamabad. Shandur is approximately 211 kilometers west of Gilgit via the Gilgit-Chitral road. Conversely, it is about 168 kilometers northeast of Chitral along the Shandur-Gilgit road. The journey from Gilgit treats travelers to breathtaking vistas of valleys, lakes, fruit orchards, traditional houses, terraced fields, flowing rivers, and serene springs. Similarly, the drive from Chitral offers glimpses of the Mastuj and Surlasp valleys’ lush natural beauty, the warm hospitality of the residents, and traditional houses nestled amidst stunning landscapes. Both routes are suitable for 4WD vehicles but are closed during the winter months.
Activities
The heart-pounding Polo matches at Shandur are complemented by an array of activities. These warm-up activities help visitors to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural beauty of the region. Adventure enthusiasts can explore the surroundings of Shandur, try their hand at stream and lake fishing, or embark on exhilarating hikes. The event also provides a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle and cultural traditions of the people of Gilgit and Chitral. Nights come alive with musical performances and fireworks, while daytime showcases paragliding and traditional dances from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. The indigenous customs and natural beauty are a visual delight for visitors.
Plan Your Visit
For all visitors, it is highly recommended to:
- Arrive at the venue at least a day before the final contest to fully savor the festival.
- Make accommodation, food, and transportation arrangements through a local tour operator if you are new to the destination.
- Carry comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing layers, a cap, sunglasses, and sunburn cream as basic items.
- You may also want to carry an umbrella/raincoat, a water bottle, and a cell phone & charger to ensure an enjoyable visit.
The Shandur Polo Festival is a unique and exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of Polo with the natural beauty and rich culture of the region. Make sure to plan your visit in advance to make the most of this extraordinary event.
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