Broghil Valley National Park and Shandur Polo Festival
This may sound boring to some people; however, I encourage you to read this THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE before going on your next travel or expedition!
AS IN BEAUTY AND BEYOND this being the case then a think-as-you-go list which comprises of treasures in Broghil Valley National Park and the Shandur Polo Festival among other attractions in Pakistan are some of the sources of beauty in this world. These are beautiful places located in the northern most part of Pakistan nestled between the majestic mountains and hills for instance these: If you agree to travel to this area let me suggest that you plan to go to Broghil Valley National Park and watch the Shandur Polo Festival.
Why You Should Visit Broghil Valley National Park
The second small scale national park the Broghil Valley National Park is situated on the extreme end of Chitral touching Afghanistan. This unseen valley is located above 4051 meters and everything that one can desire – natural growth like the fresh green laissez, crystal water lakes, massive glaciers and the beast like Markhor. This particular national park is one of the dormant national parks and this is the type of experience one will require to reconnect with nature.
Broghil Valley National Park other than geographical features has a unique fauna of this area. As for the photographers who are focused on the nature and wildlife they will obtain here the desired snow leopard, ibex, and other birds that are migrating in this zone. Furthermore, it is one of the most preferred regions for trekking in Northern Pakistan because the major track leads one to less explored valleys and fresh watered new discovered lakes for the trekkers.
Read this Blog in Urdu چترال کی وادی بروغل
Getting to Broghil Valley National Park
Even getting to the Broghil Valley National Park is not for the faint hearted. It goes through Chitral and the Mastuj valley and the journey and especially the road gets very tough as one gets closer to the park. Although, it is well worthwhile in the end. When you get to Broghil, the scenery only leaves you in the valley and the serenity of the place dazes everyone. Although most of Pakistani tourists intend to visit the stunning valleys of Gilgit Baltistan and Skardu but I would love to prefer you to must visit chitral valley,
kalash valley and shandur polo ground as these places also have some breathtaking views and some old culture that can leave stun for hours. Chitral valley and Kalash valley are opened in every season to visit but it’s difficult to visit in winter but if we talk about shandur polo ground, it’s only opened in July when the shandur polo festival has to be held. In other days, this place is closed for tourists as it shares border with Afghanistan and military check posts don’t allow tourists to wander freely in these areas. Broghil valley shares border with Wakhan and is also check posted.
Ideally, it is best to visit this area during the months of July, August and September since the weather is slightly better and more preferably, the Broghil Festival is held at this time. The region becomes completely inaccessible during winter because of accumulation of snow.
Witnessing the Shandur Polo Festival
In Northern Pakistan the Shandur Polo Festival is a quintessential example of cultural tourism. The history of the festival can be traced back to the use of polo ground which originated in the early part of twentieth century with the local kings. This event has however evolved and become famous attracting people from across the globe. In addition to the polo games, such cultural activities as dances, traditional costumes and music are other items exhibited during the event. The whole environment leaves the view of festive since the locals are setting camps and stalls within the polo ground.
In case you are attending, do not let a chance elude you to go round the neighboring areas. Shandur Lake is another excellent place of picnic, but you get the bonus of camping by the lake’s edge, especially for the lovers of nature. The festival is also an opportunity to taste something local, so do not miss the opportunity and taste Chitrali and Gilgit-Baltistan dishes.
The Cultural Significance of Shandur Polo Festival
Although the Shandur Polo Festival is a sport in every sense of the word, it is also a cultural event examining Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan cultures. These are teams from the regions of the country, and the skill and talent from each side are well harnessed in the festival; in addition there is unity and competition spirit. For the tourists it’s a chance to see a tradition which has been performed for generations and to enjoy the welcoming spirit of the people.
Best Time to Visit Broghil National Park
As for the time of the year the best time to visit both Broghil Valley National Park and the Shandur Polo Festival therefore is between July and September. It is warm during this period and you will be able to see the festivals, wildlife and natural beauty at its best. Furthermore this is the best time for trekking if you are planning to Trek to Karambar Lake or any other trekking expeditions then it is the best time.
Conclusion
In case one is an adventure lover, nature lover, or culture lovers Broghil Valley National Park and Shandur Polo Festival are a must visit attractions respectively. The KPK region captures something for all travelers; from the silent and majestic Broghil Valley to the energetic Shandur Polo Festival. Do not miss a unique chance of becoming a part of one of the most beautiful but unknown Pakistani tourist attractions to directly and impressively get acquainted with the country’s unique nature kind and enriched historical legacy.
All in all, if you are bored with routine travelling, explore the Broghil Valley National Park and Shandur Polo Festival Both are blessed with natural and cultural attractions and adventures, therefore, included among the best tourist attraction sites in Northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – Pakistan.
