PESHAWAR: The threeday annual Shandur Polo Festival will kick off at the world`s highest polo ground in Chitral tomorrow (Saturday).

Chief Minister Pervez Khattakwillinaugurate the event. Advisor to chief minister on Tourism Abdul Munim Khan, Secretary Sports, Tourism, Archaeology, Museums, Culture and Youth Affairs Mohammad Tariq, Tourism Corporation Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (TCKP) Managing Director Mushtaq Ahmed Khan and other of ficials will accompany the chief minister, says a press release issued here on Thursday.

The polo teams of Chitral, Gilgit-Baltistan, Laspur, Mastuj and Ghizer will participate in the tournament.

The provincial government has taken solid steps for organising the Shandur Polo Festival in a manner to attract domestic and foreign tourists in large numbers this year to the scenic region to watch the traditional game.

The Chitral district government, police, army and other institutions would provide security to hold the gala peacefully, said the press release.The relevant departments have already renovated the polo ground at Shandur and taken measures for water supply, transport and provision of other facilities to the participating teams, fans and tourists.

In addition to music and cultural or traditional dances, local artisans and skilled entrepreneurs will showcase their products and traditional foods.

A camping village and stalls has already been established to highlight and promote the artworks of the Chitral and Gilgit artists and skilled people.

Rafting in the Shandur lake, paragliding, archery and kite flying would be other features of the event to attract domestic and foreign tourists in great numbers.

Besides providing an opportunity of great thrill and enjoyment to the tourists, spectators and fans of the polo game, the event would also send a positive message to the outer world that peace and tranquility had been restored in the region.

As Chitral is a peaceful region, it attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists annually, especially during the Shandur and Kalash festivals.