Sanchi Stupa is located on a hilltop in Chanspa, Leh, in the Union Territory of Ladakh, India. The stupa offers panoramic views of the Leh town and the snow-capped peaks of the Ladakh Range. This peaceful, white-domed structure is a 5-kilometer drive from the main Leh Market and is also accessible by a steep flight of steps, perfect for those who love a short trek with a spiritual reward. Despite often being confused with the ancient Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh, the Shanti Stupa in Leh is a modern symbol of Buddhist spirituality in the Himalayas.
The Shanti Stupa was built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist monk Gyomyo Nakamura as part of a peace pagoda mission. It was constructed jointly by Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists to promote world peace and celebrate 2,500 years of Buddhism. This stupa is part of a larger global movement started by the Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist order, which aims to spread peace through similar stupas around the world.
The stupa is that it houses relics of the Buddha, enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama himself. Architecturally, the Shanti Stupa combines traditional Ladakhi and Japanese elements, and its white dome stands out vividly against the stark brown of the surrounding mountains.
One of the biggest draws of the Shanti Stupa is the breathtaking 360-degree views of the Leh Valley. Prayer wheels, chanting monks, and the fluttering of colorful Tibetan prayer flags create a deeply spiritual ambiance. It’s a great spot for meditation, introspection, or quiet journaling, especially during the early morning hours. At night, the stupa is illuminated with soft lights that give it a mystical appearance.
The best time to visit India, the Shanti Stupa is between May and September, when the weather is pleasantly cool, skies are crystal clear, and the natural beauty of Leh is at its peak. While you’re in Leh, don’t miss the chance to try some of the region’s most delicious local food, like thukpa (a hearty noodle soup), momos (steamed dumplings), skyu (a traditional pasta dish), and the famous butter tea known as gur gur chai.
Here the best places to visit in India the Shanti Stupa is also close to several fascinating attractions, such as the historic Leh Palace, the vibrant Main Bazaar for souvenirs and local crafts, the peaceful Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, and the beautiful Sankar Gompa. Since Leh is located at a high altitude, give yourself at least 24 hours to acclimatize before trekking up to the Shanti Stupa.
Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) jktdc.co.in/Leh-Palace.aspx?utm_
Shop for Tibetan handicrafts, woolens, Pashmina shawls, prayer flags, and handmade jewelry.
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