Now converted into a heritage hotel, Stok Palace is the reflection of the glorious days of Namgyal rule in Ladakh. Dating back to 1820, this top place to see near Leh is almost 200 years old. Stok Palace marks the final phase of the evolution of fortified palace residences characteristic of Indus Valley or Singey Sangpo region.
Stok Palace also houses a must-see museum that has a collection of artefacts and relics related to Ladakh’s old monarchy. One can see ancient coins, royal seals & costumes, jewellery and photographs along with the royal family’s collection of thangkas, some of which are over 400 years old. Some of the major highlights of the Stok Palace museum are the Queen’s ancient yub-jhur or perak, which is a head piece encrusted with 401 lumps of uncut turquoise, coral, gold nuggets and other precious stones; a 1,000 years old crown, and an actual knotted sword. The palace also has a temple where the guests are welcomed to pay a visit.
