Shanti Stupa / Shanti Stup

Address: Shanti Stupa Road, Leh

Open Hour : 05:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Entry Fee : Free for All

About:

The Shanti Stupa was built by both Japanese Buddhists and Ladakh Buddhists. Shanti Stupa is situated at a height of 4267 meters overlooking the Leh city, it gives a panaoromic view of surrounding snow capped mountains . Situated at a distance of about 5 km drive able road from the Leh city or one can reach here by climbing 500 steps. The location of Shanti Stupa is such that it is visible from all over Leh city.

Shanti Stupa was constructed in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist, Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura. The construction was jointly done by the Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists to mark the completion of 2500 years of Buddhism and to promote world peace. It is a part of peace pagoda mission, which aims to spread peace through the preaching of Buddha. The entrancing Shanti Stupa has various relics of old Buddhism culture including the huge idol of Buddha placed at this base; the idol was enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama.

It is built as a two level structure, a flight of stairs leads to the first level where a Dharmchakra (as in white strip of Indian national flag) with two deer on each side, features a central image of Lord Buddha in golden colour sitting on a platform turning the Dharmchakra wheel, the second level depicting the birth of Buddha, defeating of devils in meditation and death of Buddha along with many small images of meditating Buddha, all embossed in vibrant colors.

Mighty ranges of snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop to Shanti Stupa. The view of the milk-white snow carpeting the magnanimous Himalayas and sparkling under the soft shine of the shying sun is sure to enthrall you like never before. Shanti Stupa is a perfect getaway for both- those looking to obtain peace from offering prayers to God and those waiting to be mesmerized by nature's wondrous beauty.