One of the seven Buddhist Shanti Stupas across the world, the Shanti Stupa in Leh, Ladakh is an abode of peace and serenity. The purely white, dome shaped structure towers two storeys high above the surrounding landscape.
Set against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains of Ladakh, the Stupa commands excellent views of the scenic locale. Although the beautifully pristine architecture of the structure makes it a marvel during the daytime, the beauty of the Stupa is further compounded during the evening hours when it is lit up from the inside.
The Shanti Stupa reflects a unique architectural style, far different from the other Ladakhi Stupas. The first level of the Stupa houses a life-sized figure of Gautam Buddha, while the second level contains murals depicting three incidents in the Lord’s life- his birth, his death and attainment of ‘mahanirvana’, and his defeat of evil powers through meditation.
The Shanti Stupa also houses a meditation hall in its premises.The best time to visit the Shanti Stupa is during the hours of dusk and dawn. During this time, the fantastic play of natural light on the white Stupa walls and the surrounding snow-capped mountains offers a majestic view.
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Shanti Stupa Ladakh Highlights
• Experience serenity and tranquillity at the Shanti Stupa in Leh, located atop a hill at an elevation of over 11,800 feet above the sea level
• Marvel at the stunning white, dome-shaped structure of the Stupa, with two distinguished storeys that offer unmatched panoramic views of Leh and the Changspa Village
• Enjoy viewing the life-sized figure of Buddha and the Dharmachakra in the first storey of the Stupa, and head to the second storey to witness murals that depict his birth, death and enlightenment
• Spend some time meditating and praying inside the Stupa, and get a chance to soak in the peaceful ambience
• Don’t forget to witness the beauty of the Stupa after sundown, when it gets illuminated by many twinkling lamps
How To Reach Shanti Stupa Ladakh
1. By Car: The best and easiest way to reach Shanti Stupa from Leh is to drive there. Shanti Stupa is located around 5 kilometers outside the city of Leh. The drive between the two places takes around 13 minutes.
2. On Foot: The alternate way to reach Shanti Stupa from Leh is to scale the road on foot. Although this method is more tiresome, you will be met with a number of scenic spots on the way. It would take around 45 minutes to trek to Shanti Stupa from Leh via Changsha Road.
3. By Bus: Regular bus services are easily available from the Leh city centre to the Stupa. The bus journey takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the number of stops and overall pace.
Best Time To Visit Shanti Stupa Ladakh
The best time to visit Shanti Stupa would be during the months of summer, between April and June. During this time, the weather remains pleasant, and the snow from the winter months gets thawed. The chances of facing landslides during summer months is very little. The best time of the day to visit the Stupa, however, would be during the time of sunset or sunrise.
Recommended Read: A detailed Travel Guide of Manali to Leh Ladakh
Climb the Steps to Serenity
Set out on a visit to the Shanti Stupa, and climb the 500 stairs, which offer you breathtaking views and inner peace. This physical ascent tests your strength and rewards you with spectacular views of Leh and the snow-capped Himalayas. The path is lined with prayer flags, adding a spiritual dimension to your climb. Upon reaching the top, you can feel a sense of achievement. Here, you can also spend some time reflecting and meditating amidst the serene atmosphere. Each step you take is an opportunity to observe the rich culture and spirituality of the region.
Experience the Golden Hour
During your visit to the Stupa, take some time out to witness the golden hour, when the sun is low in the sky. With the sun casting golden hues over the white dome and the surrounding mountains, the views are spectacular. This magical moment, when day and night meet, is great for meditation or simply soaking in the beauty of Ladakh. It is also the perfect time for photography enthusiasts to capture the stupa in its most divine form, illuminated by the natural light of dawn or dusk. The interplay of light and shadows on the landscapes and the stupa itself is a sight to behold, offering a unique experience each day.
Discover the Artistic Marvels
Explore the two levels of Shanti Stupa, each narrating tales from Buddha's life through intricate murals and carvings. The first level houses a life-sized figure of Gautam Buddha, inviting you to pause and pay respects. As you get to the second level, you are greeted by murals depicting significant events in Buddha’s life. These murals offer insights into Buddhist philosophy and art. This visual journey also offers in-depth insights into the artistic heritage preserved within the stupa. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in each mural and carving tell a rich story of spiritual enlightenment and the teachings of Buddha.
Embrace the Nighttime Illumination
As dusk falls, Shanti Stupa lights up, offering a mesmerising view against the night sky. The illumination enhances its architectural beauty and the surrounding landscape, creating a peaceful ambience perfect for evening contemplation. Walking around the illuminated stupa at night is a unique experience, with the calmness and the soft glow of lights providing a moment of solace. The illuminated stupa provides a beautiful contrast to the dark night sky. It highlights the stupa's significance as a symbol of peace in the Ladakh region.
Meditate in the Hall of Peace
Shanti Stupa houses a meditation hall, providing a tranquil space for introspection and spiritual practice. Surrounded by symbols of peace and enlightenment, you can sit in silence, meditate, or engage in prayer. The serene environment, coupled with the energy of the place, facilitates a great meditation experience. It allows you to find inner peace and clarity amidst the hustle of travel. The hall's ambience is filled with the scent of incense and the soft sound of prayer bells. It enhances the meditative experience, making it a sanctuary for those seeking solace.
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Shanti Stupa FAQs
What is the opening time of Shanti Stupa?
The Shanti Stupa opens for visitors at 05.00AM on all days of the week. It remains open till 09.00PM.
How many steps do we have to climb to reach Shanti Stop top?
There are five hundred steps leading to the top of the Stupa.
How far is Shanti Stupa from Leh?
Shanti Stupa is 5 kilometers away from Leh. It takes around 13 minutes to drive to the Stupa from Leh.
How many Shanti Stupas are there?
There are a total of seven Shanti Stupas, or Peace Pagodas in India. Apart from the Stupa in Leh, Ladakh, one can also find a Stupa in the cities of Rajgir, Delhi, Dauli Giri, Darjeeling, Vaishali, and Wardha.
Which are the Ladakh Tour packages you can book while your visit to Shanti Stupa?
Here are some of the packages to book while visiting Shanti Stupa with Thrillophilia:
2) Ladakh Honeymoon Package from Delhi
Shanti Stupa Reviews
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