| Archery
is a popular form of relaxation and contests are held at every festival
and at social gatherings. These are gala affairs with much music, dancing,
drinking and gaeity. But polo is the most exciting sport. Ladakhi polo
is a fast and furious game of two rounds of 20 minutes each with few restraints
and rough riding reminiscent of the Mongol horsemen. During winter, frozen
water surfaces provide the ideal rink for ice skating. Discarded tins are
flattened and attached to the soles of the shoes, serving a substitute
for skates. Ice hockey, too, has become a popular winter sport. |