In December 2024, the renowned high-altitude pastures of Shandur Top and the frozen waters of Shandur Lake witnessed a historic first — the debut of the Shandur Ice Sports Challenge, bringing ice-hockey, curling and speed-skating to what is traditionally the world’s highest polo ground.

Held from 24 to 28 December 2024, the Shandur Ice Sports Challenge was organised by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA), in collaboration with Winter Sports Federation of Pakistan (WSFP), the Upper Chitral district administration, and local scouts. The event featured multiple disciplines: ice hockey, curling and speed skating, marking the first time these winter sports were officially conducted at Shandur — turning the frozen lake and landscape into a natural, high-altitude ice arena.

Over 119 participants took part, including 46 female athletes, hailing from various areas of Upper and Lower Chitral — highlighting inclusive representation and local enthusiasm for winter sports.

By launching ice hockey, curling, and skating at Shandur, organizers are broadening the scope of mountain tourism in northern Pakistan — offering adventure-sport opportunities beyond traditional summer seasons. The participation of women and youth reflects growing grassroots interest in winter sports, potentially paving the way for future development of ice-sport infrastructure and talent in regions like Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan. This initiative may help boost local economies by attracting tourists — both domestic and international — during winter months, when Shandur was previously less visited. It also showcases Pakistan’s potential for high-altitude winter sports.