Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist monument located on a hilltop at Chanspa in Leh district, Ladakh, India. It was established in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist monk Gyomyo Nakamura as part of the Peace Pagoda mission. The stupa is significant for its religious importance as well as its role in promoting world peace.
Shanti Stupa is located approximately 5 kilometers from Leh town. Visitors can reach it by taxi or by a trekking route. There is a road that leads directly to the stupa for those who prefer to drive, and parking is available on-site. Alternatively, tourists can also enjoy a scenic trek up the hill which takes about 20 to 30 minutes from the base.
The best time to visit Shanti Stupa is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The stupa remains open throughout the year, but winters in Ladakh can be extremely harsh with snow blocking roads and freezing temperatures.
Visitors to Shanti Stupa can expect to see panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Leh Valley and the majestic Himalayan mountains. The stupa itself is adorned with depictions of the life of Lord Buddha, and one can find meditation spaces and a platform for observing the peace and beauty of the area.
No, there is no entrance fee for Shanti Stupa. It is open to all visitors free of cost.
Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully as Shanti Stupa is a religious site. It is advisable to remove shoes before entering the stupa premises, and hats should also be removed when inside the stupa as a sign of respect.
Shanti Stupa is open to visitors every day from dawn to dusk. The sunrise and sunset views from Shanti Stupa are particularly magnificent and are highly recommended times for photography and serene contemplation.
Basic facilities such as drinking water and restrooms are available at Shanti Stupa for tourists. Souvenir shops are also present nearby, offering local handicrafts and Buddhist artifacts.
Shanti Stupa is a place for peace and meditation. Tourists are welcome to meditate in the quiet and serene environment. Occasionally, there may be Buddhist ceremonies and prayer gatherings, and while respectful observation is often permitted, active participation may require local guidance or permission from the caretakers of the stupa.
Yes, besides Shanti Stupa, visitors can explore other attractions in Leh such as Leh Palace, the Leh Market, and various monasteries like Hemis, Thiksey, and Spituk. Adventure enthusiasts may also enjoy trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting in the surrounding areas.
