The sport of free style polo had its beginnings in Baltistan Northern Area of Pakistan. Baltistan's princely kingdoms adopted the sport and made it their own, with their natural proclivity for riding. Kingdoms kept special stables for polo ponies, and their teams included among the very best in the world. Very often, the players were the rulers and members of their families, though their armies also encouraged the sport. In fact, if the sport has a presence in the country today, it is because the former royal families have continued to provide encouragement for it, and the Pakistani Army has been able to contribute its mite to it.
The Rajas were formidable polo playing families. With the glamour of the game, they drew international publicity for Pakistan, and the sport has remained one of the most prominent in the elite social circuit. Along with Shanur, there are also formidable polo teams in Shigar Baltistan, Kharmang, Rondu, Khapulo, Skardu, Astor, Nagar, Chitral and Gilgit.
It is not possible to simply arrive and start playing polo, since the sport needs especially bred horses in large numbers. These are largely maintained by the players themselves, or with the help of their sponsors. You will therefore have to seek out an invitation to play, something you are best advised to do in advance. However, it is possible to send in a special request while planning your trip to Baltistan or anywhere else in Northern Areas especially if you are a group with polo-playing members. This is important because, in season, when the game is played (April - October ), the polo teams are often out on the circuit. Off course, there is also the chance of having visiting teams in Shandur, Skardu coinciding with the time of your visit. Even if you do not get the chance to play, there is every chance of being able to watch the sport as an observer which is almost as good as playing. There is something extremely satisfying about watching men on their horses as they pursue the ball with their sticks with skill and adroitness.
At various tourist festivals in the North, polo has been introduced as a friendly, competitive sport. Perhaps the only place in the world where it is played, the game provides a great deal of amusement and mirth, but is not yet a serious pursuit. If you would like to have a game especially organized, let us know we will come up to your expectations!

Polo Tours

1. Thrilling Free Style Polo Experience   (12 Days)