Our Correspondent
CHITRAL:The vibrant three-day Shandur Polo Festival 2025 has officially commenced at the world’s highest polo ground, located at an altitude of approximately 12,000 feet in the scenic region of Shandur. The event is a joint initiative of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Authority, Pakistan Army, and Chitral Scouts, aiming to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, traditional sports, and breathtaking landscapes of northern Pakistan.
The opening ceremony was graced by Special Guest Syed Fakhar Jehan, Minister for Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Barrister Dr. Saif, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information. They inaugurated the festival in traditional style, accompanied by Secretary Tourism Bakhtiar Khan, Commissioner Malakand Abid Wazir, and Director General Tourism Authority Habibullah Arif.
Speaking to the media, Barrister Dr. Saif said that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a peaceful and tourism-rich province. We extend a warm welcome to all national and international tourists who have come to enjoy the beauty of Shandur, the thrill of polo, and the vibrancy of our local culture.
He added that the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was taking robust steps to promote tourism and revive cultural activities across the province, and the Shandur Polo Festival is a living example of this vision.
“A large number of local and international tourists have already arrived in Shandur to witness the action and soak in the natural beauty and culture of the region” he added
Dr. Saif emphasized the strategic importance of Shandur as the world’s highest polo ground, calling the festival an event that showcases not just traditional sports but also the cultural diversity, unmatched hospitality, and natural beauty of the region.“This festival offers tourists an unforgettable experience ,a unique blend of tradition, sportsmanship, and scenic splendor,” he said.
The presence of cabinet members at the event reflects the KP Government’s strong commitment to promoting tourism, culture, and sports. He also acknowledged the vital role played by the district administrations of Upper and Lower Chitral, local police, and partner institutions in organizing the festival.
The first day featured an exciting and fiercely contested polo match between Sarlaspor (Chitral) and Ghizer (Gilgit-Baltistan). Team Sarlaspor clinched victory with a score of 6-3, igniting excitement for the upcoming matches. Over the next two days, traditional rivals Chitral and Gilgit will face off in adrenaline-fueled encounters expected to draw thousands of spectators.
