Shanti Stupa refers to a peace pillar, which was established by a Peace Sect of Japanese Buddhists. This pillar is located in the Leh District just above Changspa, which is famous for its gilt panels that depict the life stories of Buddha. In 1983, the construction of this stupa was begun by His Holiness Dalai Lama for spreading the ideologies and preaching of Buddha.After its completion in 1991, the pillar was inaugurated by the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and some of the traditional Ladakhi houses. This stupa is about 5 km away from the city of Leh and faces the famous Leh Palace.