Government unexpectedly postpones the Shandur Polo Festival 2024

The Shandur Polo Festival, originally slated to take place from June 28 to June 30 in upper Chitral, has been postponed due to adverse weather conditions, according to an announcement by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government on Monday.

This annual event is held at Shandur Top, renowned as the highest polo ground globally, situated at an altitude of 3,700 meters. The festival typically features thrilling polo matches where teams from Gilgit and Chitral districts compete under freestyle rules, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage and sporting prowess.

In addition to polo matches, the festival traditionally includes vibrant displays of folk music, dancing, and a bustling camping village, all of which are organized and supported financially by the KP government.

Read More: Shandur Polo Festival Set to Begin on July 8 at 12,000 Feet

Earlier preparations for the event were reported to be in full swing, with Muhammad Bakhtiar Khan, the provincial Secretary of Tourism and Culture, confirming that all necessary arrangements had been finalized. Moreover, plans were underway to introduce a heli safari service for attendees, enhancing accessibility to the remote location of the festival. The Culture and Tourism Authority had even signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Petronet Aviation to facilitate this service.

However, with weather conditions posing a challenge, the KP government opted to postpone the festival, ensuring the safety and comfort of participants and visitors alike. New dates for the Shandur Polo Festival are expected to be announced once weather conditions are conducive for the event to proceed smoothly.