The game of Polo was introduced to Ladakh from neighboring Baltistan from its country of origin Persia. Every village in Ladakh has a polo ground and this game is an integral part of the Ladakhi culture. It is an important part of the fortnight-long Ladakh Festival held in September. While the British rules of Polo have become refined, the game in Leh Ladakh continues to be rough and tough and one of the most popular games.
During the seventeenth century, Sengge Namgyal, the King of Ladakh laid the first royal polo ground in the Murtse garden below Leh. The present polo ground in the center of Leh adjoining the Deputy Commissioner’s office is the venue for Exhibition and tournament matches.