Monument – Shanti Stupa, Leh
Built by – Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Gyomo Nakamura
Built in – 1983 – 1991

The original idea of constructing Shanti Stupa was started by Nichidatsu Fujii in 1914. His mission was to build Peace Pagodas and temples worldwide and try to resurrect Buddhism back in India.

The construction of the Shanti Stupa in Ladakh began in 1983 under the guidance and voluntary help of Ladakhi Buddhists and Japanese Buddhists. The Shanti Stupa was built to promote world peace and prosperity and to commemorate the 2500 years of Buddhism. It is considered a symbol of the ties between the people of Japan and Ladakh.

Shanti Stupa is a Buddhist white-domed stupa on a hilltop in Chanspa, Ladakh. Built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu Gyomo Nakamura, it is a part of the Peace Pagoda Mission. Enshrined by the 14th Dalai Lama, the Shanti Stupa holds the relics of Buddha at its base.

The first level of Shanti Stupa features the central relief of Dharmachakra with deer on each side. The central golden Buddha image depicts the “turning wheel of Dharma”, Dharmachakra. The second level depicts the birth of Buddha, the death of Buddha and the Buddha defeating the devils while meditating. Both the levels also feature a series of smaller meditating Buddha reliefs.

The Shanti Stupa overlooks the city of Leh, providing panoramic views of the city, the village of Changspa, and the surrounding mountains.

Photo Courtesy – www.scrolldroll.com