Jashn-e-Baharan Polo Tournament

Freestyle Polo is a thrilling traditional sport deeply rooted in the culture of Gilgit-Baltistan, often described as the world’s most rugged form of polo. Played on natural grounds with minimal rules and no protective gear, it showcases the bravery, skill, and endurance of local players.

Many pre-historic and indigenous cultural sports in Gilgit-Baltistan are gradually disappearing due to limited attention and awareness. To ensure their rehabilitation and preservation, the Gilgit-Baltistan Sports Department organizes tournaments and events to revive these traditional games, helping transfer this rich sporting heritage to the new generation.

In this context, the Jashn-e-Baharan Polo Tournament is an integral part of the annual sports calendar. Held every year during the first or second week of April to celebrate the spring season (“Jashn-e-Baharan”), the tournament attracts polo players and spectators from across Pakistan and abroad.

The event also serves as a platform to identify hidden talent among polo players and select the best teams from Gilgit-Baltistan to represent the region in the Annual Shandur Polo Festival as well as other national-level polo tournaments.