Importance of Shanti Stupa Leh

Shanti Stupa is the face of Ladakh Tourism. Know more about Shanti Stupa Leh, the magnificent Tibetan structure enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama built-in 1991 in north India. 

Shanti Stupa Leh – The monument of world peace 

The Shanti Stupa Leh is a symbol of peace and prosperity connecting the people between Japan and Ladakh. Also known as the face of Ladakh tourism, this white-colored dome-shaped

structure is built in Chandspa opposite to the Leh Palace dominates the entire Leh region from a height of 4267 meters. Constructed in 1983, it was built-in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu, Gyomyo Nakamura. Inside the Stupa are found the relics of Buddha enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama in 1985. The His Holiness Dalai Lama inaugurated the Stupa in August 1991. This vast and magnificent monument looks absolutely beautiful with astonishing views during the sunrise

and sunset and is illuminated by lights during the night. This pillar of peace built by the peace sect of Japanese Buddhist organization embarks the promotion of world peace by celebrating the completion of 2500 years of Buddhism. 

It is constructed as a two-level structure and known for gilt panels, which depict the life stories of Lord Buddha. The first level consists of the main Idol of Lord Buddha in the form of "turning wheel of Dharma". It leads you to Dharmachakra, which is a white strip of our National flag with two deer on each side. The image of Lord Buddha features in the center where he is sitting on the platform and turning the wheel of Dharmachakra. The second level features the relics depicting the life cycle of Lord Buddha. It shows the different phases like the birth of Lord Buddha, defeating the devils while doing meditation, and the death of Lord Buddha.  

Located at a distance of 5 km from Leh, this place is a symbol of peace and prosperity in the Pagoda mission. You need to climb 500 steep steps to reach this majestic structure, which resembles the relationships between the people of Ladakh and Japan. The Stupa offers beautiful panoramic views of Leh and the surrounding mountainous landscapes. The white-domed structure gives a magnificent view during the golden hours and also during the night hours as the entire dome is illuminated with white light. The purpose of building this giant structure was to bring around world peace, promote spiritualism and prosperity. The Stupa is a popular tourist attraction of Leh for its aura and vibrancy. The presence of this Stupa is seen and felt all over the city of Leh.  

Most Leh Ladakh packages would cover this destination on the day designated for acclimatization upon reaching Leh before you start your Ladakh tour. 

History of The Shanti Stupa Leh : 

The Shanti Stupa was built by both Ladakh and Japanese Buddhists. The idea originated in 1914 as part of Nichidatsu Fujii's mission to resurrect Buddhism back in India by building Peace Pagodas and temples all over the world. It is one of the famous and oldest structures

of India and also considered an important monument of Indian Architecture. Originally commissioned by emperor Ashoka in the third century BCE, it's a simple brick structure built over the relics of Lord Buddha. 

It was in 1983 when the Ladakhi and Japanese Buddhists offered voluntary helped to construct the Shanti Stupa Leh under the supervision of Kushok Bakula, a lama of Ladakh from New

Delhi and Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura, a Japanese Buddhist. In 1984,the Prime minister of India, Smt Indira Gandhi, sanctioned the construction of a road to the Stupa. And In 1991, It was inaugurated by the 14th and current Dalai Lama - Tenzin Gyatso Stupa has turned to be the most popular tourist attraction around Leh with its architectural and Ladakhi style. Constructed as a two-level structure featuring smaller relief from Lord Buddha in meditation. 

Where is it located, and how do you get there?

Located just at a distance of 5 km from Leh and situated at the height of 4267 meters, this place is constructed on a steep hill and surrounded by traditionally built houses of the locals and snow-covered mountains. It is one of the popular tourist attractions of Leh. It is surreal to watch the breathtaking and beautiful sunrise and sunset from this place, which makes the journey to this place unforgettable and memorable.  

As this place is located at an altitude of 11,841 ft, you need to climb 500 steep steps to reach the hilltop. The hill faces the Leh Palace which is also one of the closest landmarks to the Shanti Stupa Leh. 

You can hire private cabs or travel on local buses to reach this place. Below the few options to travel to Leh, which will help you pick a customized Leh Ladakh package of your preference. 

By Air: Leh Airport is well connected to different cities like New Delhi, Chandigarh, and Srinagar 

By Rail: The closest railway station is Leh is at Pathankot and Chandigarh. However, it takes a long time to travel to Leh from here and hence increases the travel time. This route is usually avoided unless you have more days in hand. 

By Road: Travelers who want to seek some adventure as well as enjoy the scenic beauty along the way choose this method of travel to Leh. They hire or come in their own bike or car. There are two ways to reach Leh through roadways – Manali Leh highway (473 km) and Srinagar Leh Highway (434 km). Local buses are available within the city, which is more cost-effective. You can also hire private cabs as per your budget. 

When to visit Shanti Stupa Leh: 

Choose a Leh Ladakh package that offers the best time to visit Shanti Stupa in order to witness its full glory and shine. The best months are from July to September as the roads are clear and the climate is more pleasing. The days here are so warm and sunny, and the temperatures fall towards the evening. 

The Stupa looks beautiful during the golden hour and can provide the best views illuminated by glittering lights during the night. Make your trip memorable by planning your vacation in this magical land of Ladakh.  

The Shanti Stupa is open for visitors from 5 am to 9 pm on all days of the week for travelers coming from all across the world. 

 Things to do and places to see around Shanti Stupa Leh 

You can also consider visiting Leh Palace, which is at a close distance to Shanti Stupa. On your journey towards this place, it's irresistible to click some amazing pictures against the backdrop of the Stupa. The view of the entire Leh region is breathtaking from here. A lot of people flock here to catch the magnificent view of the sunrise and the sunset here to take back home some brilliant and unrealistic pictures. Apart from the stunning snow-capped mountains, beautiful valleys, and architectural monasteries, you can explore the beauty of this paradise by mountain climbing, trekking, yak safaris, or just interact with the locals by taking part in their cultural festivals. Tourists can also visit the nearby markets to shop for local handicrafts. Besides that below is the list of places to include in your Leh Ladakh package to visit when you

are at Shanti Stupa Leh. 

Samkar Monastery

Teen Bhai Mandir

Stok Palace Museum

Basgo Gompa

Hanle

Yung Drung Gompa 

Tso Moriri Lake

Moravian Church

Markha Valley Trek

Guru Lhakhang

Lonpo House

Hall of Fame Museum

Jama Masjid 

Soma Gompa 

Do check out your Leh Ladakh package and make sure to include this historical monument