All About The Ladakh Polo Festival 2023

The high-altitude terrain of Ladakh is hosting its 2nd CEC Cup Polo Tournament with local clubs and players in participation. Starting July 11, the week-long festival will continue till July 17, with several activities and traditional events on display. The opening ceremony was held at the Shagaran Polo Ground in Chushot and was attended by dignitaries from the Army and other officials from the Union Territory.

Also known as Ladakh Polo Festival, the event is significant to the region. It is believed to have been introduced around the 15th century by the princess of Baltistan. Its popularity has made it a must-add sport in almost every Ladakh festival, including Losar (Buddhist New Year) and Nowruz (Muslim New Year). 

What Makes It Different

Given its century-old roots, polo in Ladakh is a celebration of traditions. At the inaugural event, you will find the use of folk instruments like daman (drums) and surna (a type of clarinet) to declare the commencement of the festival. According to the organisers, the game rules also vary. Each team consists of six players, and for every goal they score, celebratory music is played using traditional instruments. The tweaking of rules is done in line with the region's rough terrain.

Things To Do

In addition to the polo matches, the week-long festival is no less than a cultural fusion. You can relish local delicacies like Thukpa (noodle soup), Mok Mok (dimsums), Chutai-Sku (local pasta) and Kholak (barley). Traditional drama forms like Abi-Apo (grandmother-grandfather) and captivating folk music, folklore, and costume dances are also highlights of the festival. Visitors can also explore the exhibition of local handicrafts, including Pattu (woollen cloth), baskets, Thangka paintings (silk or cotton appliques depicting Buddhist deities or sceneries), pashmina shawls, and hand prayer wheels. Archery is another popular activity during the festivities.

Places To Visit Nearby

The 7-day festival is being held at Chushot village in Leh, which has several places to explore. One of the must-see attractions is the Leh Palace, an ancient royal residence that offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes. The Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist white-domed structure, is another notable landmark that stands as a symbol of peace. Visiting the Leh Old Town allows visitors to witness the region's rich cultural heritage, with its narrow lanes, traditional Ladakhi architecture, and bustling bazaars. Nature enthusiasts can indulge in the picturesque beauty of Pangong Tso Lake, renowned for its ever-changing hues of blue and mountain backdrops.

How To Reach

To reach Chushot village in Leh, you can either fly to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh and then hire a taxi or private vehicle for the remaining journey, or you can travel by road from Srinagar or Manali, reaching Leh and then proceeding to Chushot village. The road connectivity to Leh is through NH1, but it's essential to check the current road conditions and plan accordingly. Once in Leh, hiring a local taxi or private vehicle is recommended for reaching Chushot village. Remember to carry ample supplies and be prepared for Ladakh's remote and challenging terrain.

Cover photo credit Deposit Photos

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