Shandur Pass, Phander and the Ghizer Valley
The Shandur Pass connects Chitral with the Ghizer valley of Gilgit-Baltistan at about 3,700 m, the height given in our biking itinerary. It is known for its high polo ground.
About Shandur Pass & Ghizer
East of the pass, the Ghizer valley runs down past Phander Lake and Gupis towards Gilgit. Our programmes use this route for the polo festival, the Hindu Kush bike tour and trout fishing at Phander.
The biking itinerary plans a rest day at Shandur Lake before descending to Phander.
Trips that include Shandur Pass & Ghizer
Every published programme whose day-by-day itinerary mentions this destination, with its length and season:
| Programme | Days | Best time | Starts from |
|---|---|---|---|
| HinduKush Mountain Bike | 19 | Mid-May to End-August | Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad |
| Polo Festivals | 13 | — | International Airport, Islamabad |
| Trout Fishing in Pakistan | Gilgit Baltistan | 7 | — | — |
What the itineraries do in Shandur Pass & Ghizer
Itinerary days that mention this destination, quoted from the programmes:
Day 6: Kalash – Buni
Back on our main route, we pedal along the Mastuj River through dramatic gorges and rugged cliffs toward Buni. A long day with mixed tarmac and gravel roads. Overnight in hotel/camp.
Day 7: Buni – Mastuj
A demanding ride along dirt tracks and rocky terrain. The valley opens up to reveal glaciers and terraced fields. Our support vehicle provides warm lunch en route. Overnight in camp at Mastuj.
Day 8: Mastuj – Laspur
Ascending deeper towards Shandur. The track becomes steeper and rougher, winding through remote settlements. We camp near the riverbed in Laspur village. Overnight in camp.
Day 9: Laspur – Shandur Pass (3,700 m)
A strenuous climb of over 800 meters elevation gain to reach the famous "Roof of the World"—Shandur Pass. Superb views of the alpine plateau and the highest polo ground in the world. Overnight in camp near Shandur Lake.
Day 10: Rest Day at Shandur Lake
A well-deserved rest day at the high plateau. We relax our legs, soak in panoramic mountain views, and enjoy gentle walks around the pristine lake. Overnight in camp.
Day 11: Shandur Pass – Teru / Phander
An exhilarating, long downhill stretch from the pass down to the emerald Phander Valley. The road follows the turquoise Gilgit River lined with willows and trout pools. Overnight in camp.
Day 12: Phander – Gupis
We continue riding on an undulating, smooth gravel track through lush green villages and fruit orchards. In the afternoon, we reach the scenic Gupis settlement. Overnight in hotel/camp.
Day 13: Gupis – Singal (Punial Valley)
A thrilling cycling day following the fast-flowing river. The road winds through steep granite cliffs and ancient wooden suspension bridges. Overnight in camp at Singal.
Planning notes
- The polo festival tour spends several days at Shandur.
- The trout fishing trip fishes Phander Lake and the Ghizer River.
- The pass is a summer route; the biking programme runs from mid-May to the end of August.