From the towering majesty of the Karakoram to the frozen expanse of its mountain lakes, Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) transforms every winter into Pakistan’s most exhilarating sports destination. Between December and March, this stunning region, the homeland of K-2, hosts a unique blend of traditional games and high-adrenaline modern sports.
If you are seeking an unforgettable winter adventure in Pakistan, this guide highlights the thrilling competitions, where to find them, and what makes these GB winter sports truly unique.
🏒 Ice Hockey & Ice Skating: Speed on the Frozen Lakes
The centerpiece of the Gilgit-Baltistan winter season is the thriving ice sports scene, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks like Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar.
Ice Hockey in Hunza: The Winter Festival Climax
Ice Hockey in Hunza, GB, provides a one-of-a-kind and thrilling experience. This fast-paced team sport has become a local tradition, where frozen lakes become natural rinks. The major tournaments and spectacular matches often occur on the glassy surface of Attabad Lake and in the designated rinks of Ghulkin valley of Gojal, Hunza, which is famous for hosting the National Ice Hockey Championship. Local teams from Murtazabad, Gojal, and Ali Abad actively participate in these championships.
Ice Skating: Grace Across the Glaze
Ice skating is equally popular, encompassing both graceful routines and competitive races. The region boasts several prime locations:
- The iconic Khalti Lake in the Ghizer region is famed for its smooth natural ice, attracting visitors globally.
- The frozen water reservoir of Altit in Hunza hosts major ice skating events during the annual Karakoram Winterlude.
- The remote village of Hussainabad in Skardu also provides a picturesque, natural platform for this winter activity.
- Furthermore, Naltar Valley in Gilgit is recognized as a key winter sports hub where locals construct rinks for skating.
Safety Guidelines: Whether you are watching or participating, safety is paramount. Always wear a helmet and gloves, skate in the suggested anti-clockwise direction, and keep sufficient distance from others.
🐎 Polo: The Ancient Sport of Kings
Polo holds a prestigious place in the culture of Gilgit-Baltistan. Originating in this region, the local style is a rugged, free-style version, far more chaotic and exciting than the sedate variety known elsewhere.
The Gilgit Polo Ground Experience
The sheer spectacle of polo in the Karakoram is best captured at the Aga Khan Polo Ground in central Gilgit. This spot, near the junction of the Himalaya, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, is where adrenaline meets tradition. While the grand Shandur Polo Festival (between Chitral and Gilgit) takes place in July, the November tournament in Gilgit offers viewers a traditional, thrilling polo experience later in the year.
🤝 Community Sports: Tug of War & Ice Football
Beyond the major tournaments, two popular activities showcase the local community spirit and resourcefulness in adapting to the icy environment.
Tug of War: The Test of Wills
Tug of War is a beloved centerpiece of GB winter festival competitions. This simple, yet powerful, team challenge is played across the region, serving as a vital showcase of community pride and collective strength.
The sport often culminates in massive district-level events. For instance, the Ali Abad Ground in Hunza hosts a highly anticipated annual competition that draws different teams from all over Gilgit-Baltistan together to compete. The challenge is significantly amplified by the snowy or icy ground, demanding superior teamwork, synchronization, and precise footing to prevent slipping. This makes the competition a true test of collective will and strategy, enjoyed by huge crowds in places ranging from Ghulkin to Yasin/Gupis in Ghizer, and Skardu.
Futsal: Soccer on the Slopes
The high-energy, small-sided game of Futsal is brilliantly adapted for the Gilgit-Baltistan winter. Local youth spontaneously organize matches on any cleared, outdoor ground or snow-covered field, especially in the Ali Abad / Gojal areas of Hunza and the Yasin/Gupis valleys of Ghizer.
This winter version of Futsal, played on the cold, often slippery natural ground, requires phenomenal balance and careful footing. It transforms the familiar game into a high-octane challenge, resulting in a non-stop, fun display of rapid adjustments and spontaneous comedy, perfectly reflecting the ingenuity of local sports culture.
🏔️ Plan Your 2025-2026 Winter Adventure
Ice Hockey in Hunza, GB, and the accompanying winter sports are more than just games,they are a deep dive into the resilient and hospitable culture of the Karakoram.
Official Tourism Guidance:
👉 https://www.gilgitbaltistantourism.gov.pk
👉 https://visitgilgitbaltistan.gov.pk
- Best Time to Visit: The winter sports season runs from late December to early March.
- Ready to go? Whether you are an adventure tourist looking to participate or a traveler hoping to capture the stunning scenery, the dry and cold environment of Gilgit-Baltistan makes it the perfect place for an unforgettable winter trip.
