Shandur polo - net photo

Chitral -- The annual Shandur polo festival beginning from  today has attracted large number of tourists  after many years of tourism slump due to security concerns in the whole region.

Large number of local tourists mostly from down country (Punjab and Sindh), besides local polo fans are heading for the hot spot on the cool plateau at 12000 ft above sea level where traditional rivals Gilgit and Chitral will match their horse and man skill in a three day trial of Istor Ghal (polo) competitition.  Other side shows like para gliding, tug of war, cultural shows  etc have also been added to keep the visitors entertained.

For the first time Gilgit has been given rights over sharing arrangements of the festival and CM GB is scheduled to inaugurate the festival today. Though no official announcement has been made on the who will be the chief guest on the final day,  but it is speculated that either the President or the PM would attend the closing day ceremony on Saturday.  -- CN report 07 July 2011.

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