Nestled high in the Himalayas, the Shandur Polo Field holds the distinction of being the highest polo playfield in the world. Located at an elevation of 3,700 meters above sea level in northern Pakistan, this unique venue hosts an annual polo tournament that draws spectators and players from around the globe. The breath-taking setting, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine mountain lakes, provides a dramatic backdrop for what is often called the “Game of Kings.”
The Shandur Polo Ground has a rich history dating back to 1936 when the first tournament was organized by Colonel Evelyn Hey Cobb, a British Political Agent. The aim was to bring together the people of Gilgit and Chitral, two regions separated by the imposing Shandur Pass. Today, the tradition continues with teams from these areas competing in a three-day festival held each July. Alongside polo skills, other events are designed to showcase the cultural richness of these two valleys.
What sets the Shandur tournament apart from other polo events is its adherence to the original, freestyle version of the game, with no umpires and no restriction rules. Each team consists of six players, and they are allowed to do whatever it takes to score. This leads to intense matches in which both players and horses often get injured. Unlike a regular polo field, which is 270x150m, the Shandur Polo Field is 200x50m, which adds to the probability of players clashing against one another.
For the remaining 362 days of the year when the festival is not taking place, the Shandur Polo Field becomes grazing ground for yaks and donkeys.
