White and pristine, majestically perched atop Chamspa hilltop overlooking the mystical town of Leh in the Laddakh district of Jammu and Kashmir is the Shanti Stupa. Built in 1991 to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism it was built by Japanese Buddhist Gyomyo Nakamura and was inaugurated by his Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The two level stupa has the relics of Buddha and is decorated with colourful statues depicting the four stages of life. It’s a good idea to walk up to the base of the stupa as this helps in acclimatization though a motorable road also can take you up there. As you climb up the 600 steps leading to the top of the stupa you experience true ‘shanti’. A panoramic view of snow clad Zanskar mountains on one side and sprawling Leh town on the other makes the climb worthwhile and is a shutterbugs delight.
The stupa is open from 5am to 9 pm and it is recommended that sunrise and sunset are best viewed from here. My personal take would be to catch the sunset and then see Leh from the heights as the lights of the town are turned on. The stupa too is beautifully illuminated and looks breathtaking against a clear star studded night sky.
I must say this picture of shanti stupa is breath takingly beautiful. I have very fond memories of Leh – I visited about 22 years back. The intoxicating view from Shanti stupa is still fresh in my mind. Time to visit again
Happy to know about your love for Leh. In case you need any more information or assistance regarding your travel we will be happy to pitch in.You can also contact us info@offroadersblog.com
Though haven’t visited the place, it sounds very interesting to experience a true “shanti” as we climb the 600 steps and the views described especially the Sunset and view the Leh from heights when the lights of the town are turned on .When time permits wish to visit this town on top priority .Thanks to the admin for posting such information to commemorate 2500 yrs of Buddhism .
Gouthami we look forward to planning your visit to Leh
Interesting! I like to visit places like these. Hopefully someday!
Thank You Venkat,
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Thank You,
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Thanks for sharing this amazing article.
Thank You Shweta,
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Happy to know this
Thank You Jagat,
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Reliving some of the best days of my life. Was at stupa almost 20 year back. Definitely worth a visit again. Om mani padmeham.
Excellent article. Thanks for sharing
Thank You Anjaneya,
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Thanks for sharing…
Feel like visiting the exotic place..
Thank You Sunitha,
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I visited Leh in 1985 missed stupa as it was built in 1991.l must visit Leh again to witness sun rise and sun set and achieve peace of mind.
Wow, Leh looks very beautiful; would love to go there someday!
Leh is beautiful. You must visit Leh. Any support needed do let us know