Stok Palace - Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Ladakh’s former royal family were stripped of their power in 1846 and now live a comparatively modest life, dividing their time between a private mansion in Manali and the stately Stok Palace. Vaguely potala-like and with wobbly, colourful window frames, the palace is photogenic despite a giant telecommunication tower that looms directly behind. The stylish palace cafeteria has a great open terrace. Above, several rooms on two levels form the palace museum displaying family treasures, including the queen’s ancient turquoise-and-gold yub-jhur (crown) and a photo of the young king in sneakers.