Ondra Poygah Gulmit Trek
Ondra Poygah is a famous historic community built wooden stair trek in Gulmit Gojal offering panoramic views of Attabad Lake Passu Cones and Gulmit Village.
ExploreShandur Pass and Polo Ground
Ghizer Shandur, Gilgit-Baltistan
Overview
Situated at a soaring elevation of 3734 meters above sea level Shandur Pass forms the historic high altitude mountain plateau boundary connecting Ghizer District in Gilgit Baltistan with Upper Chitral in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Globally celebrated as the Roof of the World Shandur is famous for hosting the annual Shandur Polo Festival where traditional rivalry matches are played without rules on the highest polo ground on Earth. The pass features vast rolling alpine grasslands cold glacial melt streams and the high altitude Shandur Lake reflecting surrounding snow capped Hindu Kush and Pamir mountain ranges. Serving as a crucial high mountain corridor between Gilgit and Chitral Shandur Pass offers visitors a magnificent blend of high wilderness landscapes vibrant cultural pageantry folk music dancing and thrilling equestrian sport under clear mountain skies.
Highlights
- Home to the world famous highest polo ground on Earth located at 3734 meters elevation
- Venue of the iconic annual Shandur Polo Festival between traditional Gilgit and Chitral teams
- High altitude alpine plateau featuring vast rolling grasslands and pristine Shandur Lake
- Geographic pass bridging Ghizer District Gilgit Baltistan with Upper Chitral KPK
- Breathtaking 360 degree panoramic views of surrounding snow capped Hindu Kush ridges
Things To Do
- Witness thrilling traditional freestyle polo matches during the annual July Shandur Polo Festival
- Photograph the clear turquoise reflections of snow peaks across the waters of Shandur Lake
- Camp under brilliant starry night skies on the open alpine pastures of Shandur plateau
- Experience traditional local folk music dancing and cultural celebrations during festival season
- Take in sweeping high altitude mountain landscapes along the scenic Gilgit Chitral road route
Local Transportation
Accessible via a scenic 4x4 jeep or vehicle drive heading west 147 km from Gilgit city via Phander, or heading east 148 km from Chitral town.
Accommodation
Seasonal high altitude tented cities, eco camping sites, and wildlife huts during festival season, or hotel stays in nearby Phander Valley or Mastuj.
Food & Cuisine
Seasonal festival food stalls and local dhabas serve hot green tea, mutton karahi, chapshuro, dal lentils, fresh flatbreads, and travel snacks.
Safety Information
High altitude plateau over 3700 meters. Wear warm windproof thermal coats, stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness, and hire experienced 4x4 drivers.
Travel Tips
Book 4x4 vehicles and camping gear well in advance if visiting during the July Polo Festival, bring heavy warm clothing for freezing nights, and carry adequate cash.