Spring (May – June)
Snow begins to melt
- Blooming alpine meadows
- Scenic mountain views
Travel & Tours®
Rainbow Mountain
Your Gateway to Gilgit-Baltistan.
Travel & Tours®
Rainbow Mountain
Your Gateway to Gilgit-Baltistan.
Shandur Pass is the world's highest polo ground, renowned for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, annual Shandur Polo Festival, and stunning mountain scenery.
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About
Shandur Pass is the world's highest polo ground, renowned for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, annual Shandur Polo Festival, and stunning mountain scenery. The best time to visit is June – September.
Shandur Pass is one of Pakistan's most iconic high-altitude destinations, sitting at an elevation of approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) where Gupis-Yasin District meets Upper Chitral District. Surrounded by rolling alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and towering mountain ranges, it is best known as the home of the world's highest polo ground.
Every July, Shandur comes alive with the legendary Shandur Polo Festival, where teams from Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral compete in traditional freestyle polo. The festival also features cultural performances, folk music, camping, local cuisine, handicrafts, and outdoor activities, making it one of Pakistan's premier cultural events.
Beyond the festival, visitors can explore Shandur Lake, hike across flower-filled meadows, enjoy wildlife watching, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery of the Hindu Kush and Karakoram mountains. Whether you're visiting for adventure, photography, or cultural experiences, Shandur Pass offers an unforgettable journey into one of Pakistan's most spectacular alpine landscapes.
Location
District
Gupis Yasin
Region
Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Distance
215 km (5–6 hours) from Gilgit City
Elevation
~3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Climate
Cold alpine climate.
Seasonal information
Snow begins to melt
Best for polo festival
Crisp mountain air
Heavy snowfall
Best time to visit
June – September
June to September is the ideal time to visit Shandur Pass, when the roads are open, alpine meadows are lush, and the weather is perfect for sightseeing and camping. The highlight is the Shandur Polo Festival, held every July, attracting visitors from across Pakistan and beyond.
Cool summers, freezing winters.
Atmosphere & Altitude
Explore live weather conditions, oxygen levels, and safety guidance for Shandur Pass and compare elevation gradients across Gilgit-Baltistan.
Patchy rain nearby • Gupis Yasin District
Shandur Pass is the world's highest polo ground, renowned for its breathtaking alpine landscapes, annual Shandur Polo Festival, and stunning mountain scenery.
Fresh alpine air. Pace your steps gently and drink plenty of water.
Vis: 10 km
Low Protection Needed
High elevation oxygen level (64%). Hydrate frequently (3L/day), walk at a steady pace, and rest if feeling lightheaded.
Where to stay
Hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and camps you can book in the same district.
Abshaar Hotel is a peaceful mountain retreat in Darkut, Yasin Valley, surrounded by majestic peaks, waterfalls, lush meadows, and a nearby trout fishing river. It's the perfect destination for travelers seeking nature, adventure, and authentic local hospitality.
Rs 4,000
per night
Arcadian 3 Skies is a tranquil mountain retreat in Gupis, Gupis-Yasin, offering comfortable accommodations with stunning mountain views, warm hospitality, and easy access to the region's natural beauty.
FromRs 18,001
per night
Festivals
Festivals, polo tournaments, and cultural gatherings you can plan your trip around.
Nearby
Explore other destinations in the same district.
Phander Valley is a tranquil alpine paradise renowned for its emerald lakes, crystal-clear rivers, lush meadows, and breathtaking mountain scenery in Gupis-Yasin District.
1 package available
Gupis is a charming mountain town in Gupis-Yasin District, known for its serene lakes, historic fort, lush valleys, and breathtaking landscapes.
1 package available
Rainbow Mountain is a hidden geological wonder in Qurqulti Valley, Yasin, famous for its vibrant multicolored rock formations, alpine meadows, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Explore destination
FAQ
Common questions about visiting Shandur Pass.
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