About Shuka Vana
Opening Hours:
Thursday to Tuesday: Morning: 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM; Evening: 03:30 PM to 05:30 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Prime Day & Hours: Sunday; 11:00 AM
Suggested Duration: 2 hours
Tickets: Available Offline
Nearest Railway Station: Mysuru Junction, about 5.6 km away
Nearest Airport: Mysuru Airport, about 8.6 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Mysuru Bus Stand, about 4.7 km away
Shuka Vana is one of India’s finest aviaries, located within the Avadhoota Dutta Peetham in Mysuru, Karnataka. This space is dedicated to the care and conservation of exotic and endangered bird species, making it one of the best places to visit in Mysuru. Shuka Vana Mysore was founded by a revered spiritual leader, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, and doubles as both a scientific and spiritual endeavour. In Shuka Vana, each bird is thoughtfully associated with astrological elements like zodiac signs and planetary energies, enhancing the park’s appeal for spiritually inclined visitors.
Shuka Vana is home to over 2,100 birds representing more than 470 species and has even earned a place in the Guinness World Records for housing the most bird species in an aviary. This place also houses lush greenery, well-maintained aviary enclosures, and a symphony of chirping birds. The whole setting provides a wonderful and fascinating environment for families, bird sanctuaries, and meditators.
The Shuka Vana is more than just a tourist spot, but is a sanctuary where biodiversity beautifully meets with spirituality. This is what makes it one of the most distinctive places to visit in Mysuru.
Shuka Vana Highlights
• Visit Shuka Vana, Mysuru’s Guinness World record holder aviary, which is home to 2,100+ exotic birds from 470+ species worldwide.
• Behold the beautiful parrot species, including macaws, cockatoos, and African greys, in their designed habitats.
• Observe this peaceful sanctuary, where conservation meets spirituality in lush, well-maintained surroundings.
• Witness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swami’s vision in action, which combines environmental awareness with ancient Indian traditions and beliefs.
How To Reach Shuka Vana
By Car: The Shuka Vana is about 3.8 KM from Mysore city centre, you can reach there in around 12 minutes via NH13. Visitors can also take a taxi from the city centre to Shuka Vana.
Best Time To Visit Shuka Vana
Peak Season (October to February)
- Weather Insight: Experience mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 28°C, with a dry and cool climate.
- Things to Do: Enjoy a comfortable walk inside the aviary dome, witness vibrant bird activity, stroll through the bonsai garden, and attend peaceful meditation sessions in the Datta Peetham complex.
Moderate Season (March to May)
- Weather Insight: Temperatures gradually rise, reaching highs of 35°C by May. Afternoons can feel warm, but mornings remain relatively cooler and manageable.
- Things to Do: Visit early to see active birds, explore the shaded bonsai garden, and spend time in the indoor areas of the sanctuary, and crowd-free exploration.
Low Season (June to September)
- Weather Insight: The monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall, with lush greenery all around. Humidity levels are high, and outdoor spaces can be slippery.
- Things to Do: Walk through the covered aviary dome, which remains fully accessible, enjoy the refreshing greenery post-rain, and engage in indoor spiritual or healing sessions inside the ashram.
Shuka Vana Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking through some natural enclosures and various aviary zones.
- Do not use your camera flash and avoid loud noises, as that might cause problems for birds.
- Make sure you check the timings before visiting, as the park closes early in the evening
- Carry a water bottle and sun protection, especially during the afternoon.
- Respect the spiritual environment of the place and follow the signs posted in the park.
Explore the Zodiac Parrot Linkage
Learn about unique spiritual concepts where each bird in this aviary is linked to and represents a zodiac sign or a planet based on Indian Astrology. You will learn about zodiac-linked parrots and their believed healing or energy-aligning properties through displays and guide insights within the sanctuary.
Walk Through India’s Largest Aviary Dome
You can walk through the dome and see parrots flying above your head in a lush, controlled environment. The aviary is around a rainforest, making it extremely green and dense. This space allows a close encounter with hundreds of exotic bird species, making it a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Attend a Meditation Session at Datta Peetham
Get a chance to attend the meditation session at Datta Peetham within the ashram. Rhythmic chanting sessions and meditating within the silent areas of Peeth will provide you with the relaxation your mind and soul need. This place offers a soulful harmony of nature, birds, and mantras that offers a spiritual environment to both its travellers and seekers.
Observe Bird Feeding and Healing Activities
You can see the processes of caretaking and feeding the rescued birds. The rehabilitation centre provides birds with a perfect environment for their livelihood. You can also learn about veterinary practices and the spiritual philosophy behind this initiative, blending compassion, healing, and environmental responsibility.
Tourism Board Alliances
Shuka Vana FAQs
What makes Shuka Vana different from other bird sanctuaries?
Shuka Vana integrates astrology and spirituality with bird preservation. It differs from other bird sanctuaries as every bird in this park offers spiritual and educational insights connected with a zodiac sign or planet. Furthermore, Shuka Vana holds a Guinness World Record for housing the most bird species.
Are guided tours available inside Shuka Vana?
There are no guided tours available, but there are information boards and helpful staff that is available throughout the visit. You can also ask volunteers or the members of the ashram about specific birds or zodiac signs associated with them.
Is Shuka Vana suitable for elderly visitors and children?
Yes, the paths are accessible, shaded, and well-maintained. Kids will enjoy the colours and sounds, while elders can appreciate the peaceful ambience and spiritual elements of the sanctuary.
