Summary
- The Shandur Polo Festival 2026 has officially begun at the world’s highest polo ground, Shandur marking a vibrant start filled with traditional sports and cultural celebrations.
- In his address, the governor described the Shandur Polo Festival as an important milestone for national unity, cultural harmony and the promotion of tourism.
- The Shandur Polo Festival will continue for three days, featuring more traditional matches, cultural activities and tourism programs.
The Shandur Polo Festival 2026 has officially begun at the world’s highest polo ground, Shandur marking a vibrant start filled with traditional sports and cultural celebrations. Thousands of domestic and international tourists, sports enthusiasts and local visitors are enjoying this unique event.
The festival is being organized jointly by the governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan with the support of the Pakistan Army. The opening ceremony was graced by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi who formally inaugurated the event.
In his address, the governor described the Shandur Polo Festival as an important milestone for national unity, cultural harmony and the promotion of tourism. He said such events not only present a positive image of Pakistan to the world but also highlight the country’s diverse local cultures.
On the first day of the festival, an exciting polo match was played between the traditional rival teams of Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan where both sides delivered an impressive performance. Spectators highly appreciated the players skill, speed and teamwork.
To further enhance the scenic beauty of Shandur, a captivating paragliding display was also held during the match which attracted the attention of the audience. Paragliders soaring through the sky created a memorable visual experience for those present.
Strict security arrangements have been made throughout the festival, along with special facilities for tourists. According to local administration, medical camps, transportation services and accommodation arrangements have also been improved to ensure a comfortable experience for visitors.
The Shandur Polo Festival will continue for three days, featuring more traditional matches, cultural activities and tourism programs. Visitors from across the country are enjoying the unique sport and breathtaking natural beauty of Shandur while the event is also expected to have a positive impact on the local economy.
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