Stok Palace Heritage Hotel – Revel in the past
In 2008, a part of the palace was converted to a heritage hotel which now caters to travelers from across the globe in one of their six rooms on different levels. Each of the 6 rooms is unique, well lit and spacious, yet cozy. Of the 6 rooms, 4 are basic suites, one a royal suite and one the queen suite. Where the 4 basic suites are quite plain, yet very traditional, the queen suite and royal suite are special. With beautiful murals in tones of deep maroons, soothing greens and rich ink-blues adorning the walls, it is truly enriching to stay in a room with art all around you. These two rooms give a feeling of having turned back time to the glorious days of royalty. It is important to note here that the mattresses are not very thick but offer basic comfort. The bathrooms are also just as traditional in décor yet with the modern amenities that meet the requirement of a discerning traveler.
While the traditional rooms are definitely an attractive point, the fact that there is no Wi-Fi or TV, makes this a perfect place to make the most of being cut off from the hustle of the busy lives we lead. To keep one occupied, the palace has a museum on one of the floors which houses the artifacts and memorabilia of the royal family. On the top most floor is the Palace temple, which houses an amazing collection of thangkas, where the resident monks perform daily prayers and rituals (at 6 30 in the morning and 6 in the evening) which is enchanting. If requested, you can even ask to meet the King of Ladakh, who will be happy to interact with you and explain how he regularly shares his lunch with the Dalai Lama in the shrine.
Apart from the indoor activities, the staff will be happy to organize experiences outdoors, like a walk in the village, a cooking demo on Ladakhi cuisine or a walk to the Statue of The Future Buddha where you get a magnificent 360-degree view of the valley and the mountains, which is also the start of a wonderful hiking trail towards Stok Kangri.
Last but not the least which I consider to be a highlight of the stay is the food. The restaurant is on the ground floor which is the old Royal Kitchen. Completely refurnished now, it is spacious and traditionally decorated with old utensils and serves a delightful mix of Continental, Ladakhi, Tibetan and Indian cuisines. Sometimes when the weather is conducive the meals are served on the Palace ramparts which offer a breathtaking view of the Ladakh valley and ranges. The staff in general is very helpful and makes sure that every guest’s need is well taken care of. It would be right to say that if there is one place that provides a wholesome experience of the Ladakhi traditions and way of life, it is here at the Stok Palace, replete with the royal touch.
