Shanti Stupa Leh Ladakh
Overview
Situated on the Chanspa hill overlooking the Capital city of Leh, the Shanti Stupa is visited by numerous tourists and devotees, drawn by its religious significance and the panoramic views it offers. It is situated at a height of 4267 meters above sea level.
The white domed structure is one of the most visited local attractions of Leh city. It is an epitome of world peace and aims to spread peace and prosperity all over the globe.
Reaching this spot requires climbing around 500 steps, but once at the top, you are greeted with impressive views of Leh’s town and the surrounding Himalayan mountains. Shanti Stupa is positioned in a way that it can be seen from almost every part of Leh city.
Here’s a complete guide to exploring Shanti Stupa Ladakh including the best time to visit, nearby attractions, etc.
Architecture Of Shanti Stupa
The Shanti Stupa in Ladakh is designed as a two-level structure, each level holding deep symbolic and artistic significance.
Visitors reach the first level by climbing a set of stairs, where they are welcomed by a beautifully crafted Dharmachakra, the Wheel of Dharma, which closely resembles the one featured on the white band of the Indian national flag. On either side of the Dharmachakra, two deer are placed, which are common symbols in Buddhist art, representing the first teachings of Lord Buddha at Deer Park. At the center of this level, there is a golden statue of Lord Buddha seated on an elevated platform, depicted in the posture of turning the Dharmachakra, symbolizing the spreading of Buddhist teachings.
Moving up to the second level, the walls and structures illustrate key moments from the life of Buddha. These include his birth, his triumph over worldly temptations and demons during deep meditation, and finally, his passing into Nirvana. Along with these scenes, the level is adorned with numerous smaller images of Buddha in a meditative posture, all designed with bright and vibrant colors.
Together, these details make the stupa not only a religious site but also an important artistic and cultural landmark in Leh.
Best Time to Visit Shanti Stupa
The best time to visit Shanti Stupa Ladakh is from May to October. Throughout the summer, autumn and spring season, the place remains open and accessible. Temperature around the region remains mild, ranging between 20°C to 25°C. It may fluctuate based on the season and particular time of the day.
You can also visit Shanti Stupa in winter as well. However, in months like December and January, it might be closed due to heavy snowfall experienced in Leh City. Make sure to check weather updates and its opening status via different online websites before visiting.
The stupa welcomes visitors from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with sunrise and sunset being the most recommended times to enjoy its views
History of Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa was built to commemorate the 2500 years of Buddhism and its teachings to the world.
The concept for the Shanti Stupa was first introduced by Nichidatsu Fujii, a Buddhist monk from Japan who is more widely recognized as Fuji Guruji. He envisioned this stupa in 1914 as part of a broader mission to promote peace and non-violence through Buddhist teachings and symbols.
The stupa, often referred to as the Sanchi Stupa of Leh, was eventually constructed many years later with the combined efforts of Japanese and Tibetan monks.
The project was carried out under the leadership of Bhikshu Gyomyo Nakamura, a Japanese Buddhist monk, along with guidance from Kushok Bakula, who was the Llama of Ladakh at that time.
The Shanti Stupa was built as a part of the international “peace pagoda mission,” which aimed to construct similar monuments around the world to spread the message of global harmony and unity.
The construction began in 1983, supported financially by the Government of India during Indira Gandhi’s leadership.
The project reached completion in 1984, although the stupa was officially inaugurated a few years later, in 1991, by the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso.
Today, the Shanti Stupa stands as both a spiritual landmark and a symbol of peace, drawing visitors and pilgrims from around the world.
Places to Visit Around Shanti Stupa
Shey Monastery & Palace: Among different places to visit Shanti Stupa, the first attraction is Shey Monastery & Palace. Both are separated by a distance of just 17 kilometres taking around half an hour.
The monastery features a Buddha statue that stands 39 feet tall, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Surrounding the statue are several smaller stupas and traditional prayer wheels, which are often spun by visitors and monks as part of their daily rituals.
The site also offers scenic views of the Indus Valley and the nearby Thiksey Monastery, making it a place of both cultural and natural interest. The ideal time to visit the monastery is in the morning, as this is when the monks gather to perform their daily prayers, allowing visitors to witness the serene and spiritual start to the day.
Nubra Valley: Nubra Valley is about 158 kilometres from the Shanti Stupa Ladakh.
The valley is one of the most visited attractions of Ladakh. A road trip of around 4-5 hours through taxis or cabs takes you to the beautiful regions.
The list includes villages, lakes and even monasteries. Hunder village must be part of your itinerary. Do enjoy double humped camel safari.
Nubra valley is best explored from May to September. However, you can surely come here in winter. Make sure to check the weather forecasts and road conditions as well for a safer journey.
Do obtain Inner Line Permit( ILP) since it is mandatory for entry in the Nubra Valley.
Spituk Monastery: Spituk Monastery is about 7 kilometres from Shanti Stupa Ladakh.
Spituk Monastery is built along the slope of a rocky hill, following a design that reflects both practicality and tradition.
The whitewashed walls and flat roofs are typical of Ladakhi architecture, allowing the monastery to blend naturally with the surrounding landscape.
Inside, the prayer halls are supported by wooden beams, painted in shades of red and blue, adding warmth and character to the space. Small Chortens are scattered across the courtyards, standing quietly as part of the monastery’s peaceful environment.
Stakna Monastery: Stakna Monastery is located around 27 kilometres away from Shanti Stupa. A cab journey of about 40 minutes takes you there.
The name Stakna translates to “tiger’s nose” in English, a reference to the shape of the hill on which the monastery stands.
Positioned on this hill, the monastery offers impressive views of the Indus Valley. Stakna is well known for its traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture, which includes colorful murals, detailed thangkas, and a distinct stupa that adds to its spiritual charm.
The monastery is also located near other prominent sites like Thiksey and Hemis monasteries, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring the region.
How to Reach
By Air:
The easiest and fastest way to reach Leh is by air. The city is served by Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which operates as both a civilian and military airport. Due to its military association, security checks here are more frequent and thorough. Travelers with e-tickets are advised to carry a printed copy, as entry without proper documentation may be restricted. The airport is well connected to major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Chandigarh, and Srinagar through regular flights. From the Airport, reach the main city in under 15 minutes and then continue your journey to Shanti Stupa Leh Ladakh, covering around 12 kilometres.
By Train:
Leh does not have a direct railway connection. The nearest railway stations are located in Pathankot and Chandigarh, both approximately 800 kilometers away. From these stations, travelers usually continue the journey by road, which can take up to three days. Because of the distance and travel time, this option is less common among visitors heading to Leh.
By Road:
For adventure enthusiasts, reaching Leh by road offers a scenic and memorable experience. Travelers often choose to drive or bike from Manali, which is about 473 kilometers away, or from Srinagar, roughly 434 kilometers distant. Public buses also operate on this route at affordable prices, and taxis are available for those seeking a more comfortable option. You can further drive to Shanti Stupa in under 15 minutes. Shanti Stupa is located around 12 kilometres away from Leh city.
FAQ's
Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist monument. The monument is a symbol of peace and prosperity. The monument is a stunning white-domed monument located at a height of 11, 841 feet. It is one of the important religious places for Buddhists. The monument looks quite stunning during the full moon night when it is illuminated by the moonlight. The monument is the best place for those who are looking to obtain peace and offer prayer.
This Buddhist monument was founded by Gyomyo Nakamura in 1991. Nakamura was a Japanese Buddhist who built this monument for peace and non-violence. This monument is one of the popular religious places in Ladakh.
Shanti Stupa is one of the perfect religious places in Ladakh. This monument is surrounded by the Himalayan ranges, lakes, and Pokhara City. The hills of Ladakh provide breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset. This is one of the magnificent monuments located at the top of the hills.
The best time to visit Shanti Stupa is from June to September. During this time the road remains clear and the weather is also pleasant at that time. The ideal times in the day are sunset and sunrise. In the winter season, the region remains covered with thick snowfall and all the places are not accessible during this time.
Shanti stupa also known as the World Peace Pagoda is situated at the top of Ananda Hill. The monument is accessible through the motorable road that will take you to its gate. If you are planning for a Ladakh tour do not forget to visit this place.
Shanti Stupa is one of the most famous temples of Ladakh. The Stupa represents world peace. Located at a distance of around 12 kilometres from Leh city, the peaceful temple attracts tourists from all over the world.
There are 500 stairs in Shanti Stupa Leh. You have to climb them to reach the main complex of the temple.
The famous Buddha Statue of Maitreya Buddha in Ladakh is found in the Diskit Monastery. It is located in the Nubra Valley. The 32 feet tall status has gained worldwide recognition. The brilliant craftsmanship of the statue makes it visually appealing.
Shanti Stupa is famous for its aim to spread peace and prosperity to the world. It was constructed to celebrate Buddhism’s 2500 years. Its magnificent construction, peaceful environment makes it one of the most famous local attractions of Ladakh.
Most of Ladakhi people worship Buddha as their main deity. The most popular and followed religion here is Buddhism. You can find a number of Monasteries and Buddhist temples here, managed by monks.
