Shanti Stupa

4.7

Location: Shanti Stupa Rd, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir, 194101

Estimated Visiting Time: 1 hour

Three miles from Leh, Twilight is divine from this elevated spot. The changing light brings mystic beauty to the panorama of mountains surrounding the Stupa, whether sunrise or sunset. To both, its isolation and its design, the striking structure owes its remarkability. It is greatly different from the orthodox Ladakhi structures and was designed by a Japanese. In the year 1991, this relatively new Stupa was built.

Attraction

At the Shanti Stupa in Leh, experience serenity and tranquility, located atop a hill at an elevation of over 11,800 feet above the sea level. With two distinguished Storeys that offer unmatched panoramic views of Leh and the Changspa Village, Marvel at the stunning white, dome-shaped structure of the Stupa.

In the first Storey of the Stupa, and head to the second Storey to witness murals that depict his birth, death and enlightenment, enjoy viewing the life-sized figure of Buddha and the Dharmachakra. Get a chance to soak in the peaceful ambience and spend some time meditating and praying inside the Stupa. When it gets illuminated by many twinkling lamps, don’t forget to witness the beauty of the Stupa after sundown.

History

The current and 14th Dalai Lama, himself enshrined the relics of the Buddha that are now housed there, still visits often. Depicting the completion of 2500 years of Buddhism in the world, the Shanti Stupa is a symbolic memorial. Between climbing to the Stupa and photographing the surrounding mountains, visitors can enjoy a brief interlude at the meditation room.

Inside/Outside Views

The Shanti Stupa in Leh, Ladakh is an abode of peace and serenity, one of the seven Buddhist Shanti Stupas across the world. High above the surrounding landscape, the purely white, dome shaped structure towers two Storeys. The Stupa commands excellent views of the scenic locale, set against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains of Ladakh. The beauty of the Stupa is further compounded during the evening hours when it is lit up from the inside, although the beautifully pristine architecture of the structure makes it a marvel during the daytime. Far different from the other Ladakhi Stupas, the Shanti Stupa reflects a unique architectural style. While the second level contains murals depicting three incidents in the Lord’s life- his birth, his death and attainment of ‘mahanirvana’, and his defeat of evil powers through meditation, the first level of the Stupa houses a life-sized figure of Gautam Buddha. In its premises, the Shanti Stupa also houses a meditation hall. During the hours of dusk and dawn, is the best time to visit the Shanti Stupa.

Opening Hours

Monday To Saturday 7.00 am – 8.00 pm

Sunday Close

Entry & Others Fees

No entry fee needed.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By air: Very well connected with some major airports in India, including New Delhi, the closest airport is Leh Airport. To reach the destination from the airport, taxis can be hired and.

By Rail: At a distance of 812 km from Leh, the closest major railway station from Leh is Jammu Tawi. To reach Leh over Srinagar Leh Highway in a 3-day journey with overnight halts at Srinagar and Kargil, taxis can be hired from the railway station.

From Leh via Manali Leh Highway, Joginder Nagar railway station is just 635 KM but is not a major one.

By road: The most feasible option is to travel the distance between gurudwara and Leh by road. Between November and April, the road remains closed, so during that time, you should avoid going there.