Practice : Ladakh presents a hypnotic mixture of Buddhist and Muslim cultures. The streets are crowded with people dressed in gold and silver ornaments and turquoise headgear. Monks in their ritual regalia, wearing colourful masks dance to the entrancing rhythm of cymbals, flutes and trumpets. The Yak, Lion and Tashishpa dances depict the many legends and fables of Ladakh, the hermit kingdom. Brightly coloured flags flutter from ancient monasteries, displays of tankhas, archery competitions, a mock marriage, horse-polo, and an array of sumptuous Ladakh cuisine are the highlights of this festival.