Shyok Winter Festival 2025, Most Magical Celebration of Gilgit-Baltistan

Pakistan is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking mountains, pristine valleys, and ancient cultures—but among its many hidden treasures, the Shyok Winter Festival stands out as a magical celebration that blends adventure, culture, heritage, and the raw beauty of winter. Held every year from January 7–9 in Khaplu, a charming town nestled in the Ghanche District of Gilgit-Baltistan, this festival brings the frozen landscapes of the Karakoram alive with laughter, music, sports, flavors, and unforgettable cultural energy.

This guide to the Shyok Winter Festival—perfect for tourists, travel bloggers, adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and photographers looking for a winter experience unlike any other.

It will cover everything you need to know:

• What the Shyok Winter Festival is?
• Why it is unique?
• Festival history & cultural significance
• Highlights of the event
• Winter sports & activities
• Detailed day-by-day itinerary
• How to reach Khaplu?
• Best time to visit
• Weather conditions & packing list
• Tour packages & costs
• Safety tips
• Where to stay?
• Food, culture & local hospitality
• Complete travel planning guide

Let’s begin our journey into the icy heart of the Karakoram.

Introduction to the Shyok Winter Festival

The Shyok Winter Festival—also called the Khaplu Winter Festival—is an annual three-day celebration that transforms Khaplu City Park into a bustling hub of winter sports, cultural performances, food stalls, folk music, and traditional Balti festivities.

Located at 2,600–3,400 meters above sea level, the Shyok Valley becomes a wonderland of snow-covered peaks, icy rivers, frozen lakes, and crisp mountain air during the winter. While the extreme cold may deter many travelers, the festival is designed precisely to embrace and celebrate the winter season in all its glory.

The festival is organized by local communities, district authorities, and cultural groups who aim to promote eco-tourism, preserve regional heritage, and showcase the adventurous spirit of the Baltistan region.

Unlike other winter events such as the Hunza Winter Festival, the Shyok Winter Festival is deeply rooted in Balti traditions and includes a special mix of:

• Tiaku Polo (snow polo played with skill and agility)
• Ice Hockey Championship
• Rock climbing & volleyball on snow
• Balti folk dances such as Ltanmo & Mayfang
• Local craft exhibitions
• Traditional music performances
• Bonfires & storytelling traditions
• Stalls offering authentic Balti cuisine

This festival is more than just entertainment—it is an immersive cultural experience that allows visitors to connect with the lifestyle, warmth, and hospitality of one of the world’s most fascinating mountain communities.

The History & Cultural Significance of the Festival

Gilgit-Baltistan has a centuries-long tradition of winter celebrations. Historically, communities came together during harsh winter months to celebrate survival, unity, and cultural identity. Festivals like Mayfang, Ginani, Nowruz, and Jashn-e-Chilas share roots in ancient rituals.

The Shyok Winter Festival draws inspiration from:

Balti Winter Traditions

Baltistan’s culture emphasizes:

• warmth & community gathering
• celebration through music & dance
• testing strength in snow sports
• sharing food & stories

Preservation of Indigenous Sports

Games like Tiaku Polo, Mayfang Dance, and Ice Hockey have existed in the region long before western influence. These sports symbolize:

• bravery
• teamwork
• mountain resilience
• cultural pride

Promoting Tourism in Off-Season

The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan recognizes winter tourism as a major opportunity, especially with increased accessibility through flights. The festival aims to:

• attract domestic & international tourists
• create job opportunities
• promote sustainability
• highlight the winter beauty of Khaplu & Skardu

Revival of Local Art & Crafts

Balti embroidery, woodwork, pottery, and handmade textiles are showcased at the festival, giving local artisans a platform to sustain their craft.

Where the Festival Happens: Shyok Valley & Khaplu

Shyok Valley

The Shyok Valley stretches along the icy Shyok River, with towering mountains guarding it like ancient giants. In winter, the valley is covered with snow, and the river banks freeze into glassy layers. The landscape looks straight out of a fantasy film—raw, powerful, and breathtaking.

Khaplu – The Heart of Baltistan’s Winter

Khaplu, located 103 kilometers from Skardu, is known for:

• historic Khaplu Palace (Yabgo Khar)
• the famous Shyok River
• charming stone houses
• serene winter villages
• ancient mosques
• Balti hospitality

With its unique mix of adventure and culture, Khaplu is the perfect host for the winter festival.

Major Highlights of the Shyok Winter Festival

This is what makes the festival truly unforgettable:

1. Tiaku Polo – Polo on Snow

One of the top attractions is the thrilling Tiaku Polo matches. Unlike traditional polo, this version is played on snow fields, requiring incredible skill. Local teams compete fiercely, drawing huge crowds.

2. Ice Hockey Championship

Khaplu is emerging as one of the top hubs for ice hockey in Pakistan. Teams compete on naturally frozen surfaces, offering an exciting display of speed, strategy, and skill.

3. Rock Climbing on Frozen Cliffs

Adventure lovers enjoy rock climbing competitions on snow-covered cliffs. It is both a sport and a spectacle.

4. Volleyball in Snow

A fun, high-energy tournament where local players compete on snow courts.

5. Cultural Performances

The festival features:

• Ltanmo dance
• Jashn-e-Mayfang
• Balti folk music
• Drum circles
• Performances by the Khadim of Rondu and Hushe Group

These performances showcase the deep-rooted traditions and rich cultural heritage of the Balti people.

6. Bonfire Nights

As temperatures drop to -10°C or lower, bonfires warm up the evenings with:

• folk songs
• stories
• dancing
• community bonding

7. Balti Cuisine Stalls

Visitors can enjoy:

• balti roti
• mutton yakhni
• tsampa
• apricot soup
• mamtu
• butter tea
• skardu organic dishes

8. Local Crafts Bazaar

Handmade Balti crafts such as:

• embroidered shawls
• carved wooden items
• stone jewelry
• traditional hats
• winter wear

are available for purchase.

The Complete 6-Day Festival Itinerary (Detailed)

This is the most accurate and popular itinerary for travelers.

DAY 1: Islamabad → Skardu (By Air)

• Early morning flight from Islamabad to Skardu
• Airport pickup & hotel transfer
• Visit:
  • Katpana Cold Desert
  • Skardu Bazaar
  • Local viewpoints
• Dinner: Authentic Balti food
• Overnight stay in Skardu

DAY 2: Skardu → Khaplu (4–5 Hours)

• Scenic drive from Skardu to Khaplu
• Stop at Shigar Valley
• Stop at Shyok River Viewpoint
• Arrival at Khaplu
• Visit Khaplu Palace (Yabgo Khar)
• Check-in to guesthouse
• Relax & prepare for festival
• Overnight stay in Khaplu

DAY 3: Khaplu – Festival Day 1

• Opening ceremony at Khaplu City Park
• Watch:
  • Tiaku Polo Matches
  • Ice Hockey Championship
• Explore food stalls
• Rock climbing competition
• Snow volleyball tournaments
• Evening:
  • Bonfire
  • Ltanmo dance
• Overnight stay in Khaplu

DAY 4: Festival Day 2

• Morning cultural performances
• Mayfang Dances
• Khadim of Rondu group performance
• Hushe Musical Group
• Jashn-e-Mafang
• Festival closing ceremony
• Drive back to Skardu
• Overnight stay in Skardu

DAY 5: Explore Skardu + Leisure Day

• Visit:
  • Sarfaranga Cold Desert
  • Shangrila Lake (if accessible)
  • Local bazaars
  • Organic shops
• Traditional Balti dinner
• Overnight in Skardu

DAY 6: Skardu → Islamabad (By Air)

• Early morning flight
• End of tour

Weather Conditions & Best Time to Visit

When does the festival take place?

January 7–9

Temperatures:

• Day: -2°C to -6°C
• Night: -10°C to -18°C

What to Expect?

• Snowfall
• Frozen rivers
• Clear night skies
• Crisp mountain breeze

What to Pack for the Festival

• Thermal layers
• Windproof jacket
• Woolen gloves
• Insulated boots
• Warm cap & scarf
• Moisturizer & lip balm
• Sunglasses (snow glare)
• Camera / drone
• Backpack

Tour Costs & Packages

Typical packages range from PKR 55,000 – 95,000 per person (for 5–7 days), depending on:

• group size
• hotel category
• activities included
• transport choices

Inclusions usually cover:

• transportation
• accommodation
• breakfast
• guide
• tolls & fuel
• festival access

Where to Stay in Skardu & Khaplu

Skardu Hotels

• Shangrila Resort
• Serena Shigar Fort
• Tibet Motel
• Mountain Lodge Skardu

Khaplu Hotels

• Khaplu Palace & Residence (Serena)
• Local guesthouses
• Homestays with Balti families

The Culture of Baltistan

The Balti community is known for:

• warmth
• hospitality
• storytelling
• unique winter traditions
• delicious cuisine
• an ancient Tibetan-influenced heritage

Their generosity makes the festival even more enjoyable.

Why You Should Attend the Shyok Winter Festival

• Experience a unique winter adventure
• Witness rare snow sports like Tiaku Polo
• Enjoy indigenous Balti culture
• Explore majestic landscapes
• Interact with local communities
• Capture once-in-a-lifetime photos
• Celebrate winter in a warm, welcoming atmosphere

Conclusion: A Winter Experience Beyond Imagination

The Shyok Winter Festival is not just an event—it is a journey into the soul of the Karakoram. It is a celebration of resilience, joy, culture, and the majestic beauty of winter. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a cultural enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this festival promises memories that will last a lifetime.

From snow polo and ice hockey to dances, music, and bonfires in freezing temperatures—this is one of the most authentic winter cultural experiences in the world.

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable winter escape, pack your bags and head to Khaplu this January. The Shyok Winter Festival is waiting for you.