Activities

Things to Do
in Ghizer

From the world's highest polo festival to a glacial lake boat trip — what to actually do in Ghizer Valley.

📍 Ghizer District
🏔 Shandur Pass 3,734m
🌿 Best: Jun–Oct
🎯 8 activities listed
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Highlight Event

Shandur
Polo Festival

The Shandur-Phander Polo Festival is held annually in mid-July over 3 days on the world's highest polo ground at 3,734m. Teams from Chitral and Gilgit compete in a tradition that dates back centuries. The event draws thousands of spectators who camp on the plateau.

WhenMid-July (exact dates vary — check PTDC Pakistan or GB Tourism website)
Duration3 days
EntryFree
AccommodationTent city on plateau, Rs.500–1,500/tent. Book early — fills completely.
Getting thereSpecial transport from Gilgit and Chitral. Shared vans Rs.700–900.
Plan early: The festival is a genuine cultural event, not a tourist show. Arrive a day before to find a camping spot. All guesthouses in Phander and Teru book out weeks in advance.
Phander Lake

Boat Trips
on the Lake

Phander Lake is a 5km glacial lake at 2,800m with deep blue-green water and poplar-lined shores. Boat trips are operated by local fishermen from the western shore. Negotiate the price before boarding.

CostRs.300–500 per boat (up to 4 people, 30 minutes)
Best timeMorning for calm water and reflections. October for golden poplar colours.
Getting there2km east of Phander bazaar on foot or Rs.200 by rickshaw

The lake is accessible May–October. October is particularly beautiful when the poplar trees lining the shore turn gold against the blue water. This is one of the most photogenic scenes in all of GB but receives far fewer visitors than comparable spots in Hunza.

Photography: Best light is early morning (6–9am) and late afternoon (4–6pm). The mountains reflect in the lake on calm days.
More Activities

Other Things
to Do

Shandur Pass sunsetDrive up from Teru (45 min) for sunset views across the plateau. Two glacial lakes shimmer in evening light at 3,734m. Free. Bring warm clothes — cold at altitude.
Phander Village walkTraditional wooden houses, apple orchards, and a relaxed village pace. 1–2 hour self-guided walk from the bazaar. Free.
Handrap Lake trekAbove Gupis. A 1-day hike to a high mountain lake. No guide needed. Good trail. Start early morning from Gupis bazaar.
Fishing — Ghizer RiverBrown trout fishing in the Ghizer River. Local licence Rs.500/day from Forest Department in Gahkuch. Best May–September. Bring your own gear or ask locally.
Gupis FortA ruined Dogra-era fort above Gupis bazaar. Free entry. 15-minute walk. Good views over the valley. Small but historically interesting.
Chillinji Pass trekAdvanced multi-day trek connecting Ghizer to Ishkoman Valley. Technical sections. Guide required (Rs.2,500–3,000/day). Arrange in Gahkuch or through a Gilgit agency.