Shuka Vana Bird Rehabilitation
A sanctuary for rescued exotic parrots, offering free entry and unique bird interactions within a serene ashram setting.
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Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Birds are active & crowds thin
Shuka Vana Bird Rehabilitation
Best Time
Birds are active & crowds thin
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sanctuary for rescued exotic parrots, offering free entry and unique bird interactions within a serene ashram setting.
"Step into an amazing world of birds at this free sanctuary where parrots may land on your shoulder!"
📸 Camera Fee for Photos
A fee may apply for using cameras or phones for photography inside.
🐦 Bird Interaction Charges
Interacting with birds for photos might have an additional charge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Exotic Parrot Aviary
Main Aviary
Wander through a vibrant world of rescued parrots and exotic birds, many of whom may land on your shoulder!
Bonsai Garden
Adjacent to Aviary
A serene escape with meticulously sculpted bonsai trees, offering a tranquil contrast to the bird sanctuary.
Interactive Bird Encounters
Designated areas
Experience the joy of birds perching on you for unforgettable photos (may incur a small fee).
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, But Consider a Donation
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting Mysore (specifically only the zoo)
📸 Camera Fee for Photos
A fee may apply for using cameras or phones for photography inside.
🐦 Bird Interaction Charges
Interacting with birds for photos might have an additional charge.
Travel tips for Mysore
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the sanctuary. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if visiting during warmer months. Carry a water bottle. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Camera Fee for Photos
A fee may apply for using cameras or phones for photography inside.
🐦 Bird Interaction Charges
Interacting with birds for photos might have an additional charge.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking around the sanctuary. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if visiting during warmer months. Carry a water bottle. :droplet:
🤫 Be Calm and Gentle
Follow the advice to ensure a peaceful experience for you and the birds. :dove:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shuka Vana is widely praised for its free entry and the incredible experience of interacting with rescued exotic birds. Visitors love the well-maintained sanctuary and the opportunity for unique photos. However, some feel the revenue model could be improved to better support the sanctuary's conservation efforts.
"An amazing vision brought to reality by the Sanyasi for saving the endangered parrots species from across the world. They don't charge any entry fees. The avairy is open seven days a week. Be calm and interact with those birds, but follow advice. You are transferred into an amazing world of birds.
They have kept it so neat and healthy."
A R
"I recently visited Shukavana in Mysore, a beautiful bird sanctuary that’s completely dedicated to exotic and rescued parrots and other birds. And I have to say it was awesome.
The sanctuary is free to enter, which is incredibly generous and rare these days. You get to see a stunning variety of birds in well-maintained enclosures, and many of them look genuinely happy and active. The place is peaceful, clean, and thoughtfully designed.
To top it off, they also have a bonsai garden which adds to the whole experience. It’s a great place for bird lovers, families, and photographers alike.
💡 But Here's the Catch – Revenue Model Needs Work
While the place is beautiful, I genuinely felt they’re missing out on a solid revenue opportunity that wouldn’t compromise their free-entry policy.
Here’s an idea that could really work:
Entry remains free, but only if you don’t carry a phone or camera inside.
If you want to carry your phone and take photos, charge ₹200.
Want a bird to sit on your hand or shoulder for a photo? Add ₹200 more totally worth it, and many people would love that moment.
This way, casual visitors still get to enjoy the sanctuary for free, while photography enthusiasts and families who want keepsakes are contributing to its maintenance. Everyone wins.
Final Thoughts:
Shukavana is a fantastic initiative with heart. It’s a must-visit if you're in Mysore but they deserve more support, and a better self-sustaining model could make a huge difference in the long run.
Would love to see this place thrive even more!"
VISHWANATH T S
"I had the privilege of visiting the Mysore Sukhavana Avadhootha Datta Peetham SGS Ashram, and it was a profoundly enriching experience! This sacred ashram is a haven of peace, tranquility, and spiritual growth.
The ashram's beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and serene atmosphere create a perfect setting for introspection, meditation, and self-reflection. The stunning idol of Lord Dattatreya is a sight to behold, radiating divine energy and positivity.
One of the highlights of my visit was the "Birds Sukhavana" - a unique aviary within the ashram that's home to a wide variety of birds, including parrots, and peacocks. It was a thrill to see these beautiful creatures up close and personal!
Another notable feature of the ashram is the massive Hanuman statue, which stands tall and proud, exuding an aura of strength and devotion. It's a truly awe-inspiring sight!
Important.
The peaceful and serene atmosphere
The stunning idol of Lord Dattatreya
The beautiful gardens and walking trails
The "Birds Sukhavana" aviary
The massive Hanuman statue
Plan your visit during the early morning or evening hours for a more peaceful experience
- Attend the daily discourses and spiritual activities for a deeper understanding of the ashram's teachings."
Radhakrishnan nair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shuka Vana is located within the Avadhootha Datta Peetham SGS Ashram in Mysore. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi from anywhere in the city. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
While direct buses might be limited, you can take a local bus towards the ashram area and then a short auto-rickshaw ride. It's advisable to check local bus routes beforehand. :bus:
Hiring an auto-rickshaw is a convenient and popular option. It offers flexibility and direct access to the ashram. Negotiate the fare beforehand. :moneywithwings:
Yes, there are parking facilities available at the ashram complex for visitors arriving by private vehicles. :car:
Shuka Vana is located a few kilometers away from the Mysore Zoo. You can easily cover the distance by auto-rickshaw or taxi in about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry to Shuka Vana is free, which is a significant highlight for visitors. However, donations are highly encouraged to support the birds' care.
No, advance booking is not required as the entry is free. You can visit during their operating hours. :ticket:
Shuka Vana is typically open from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. It is closed on Wednesdays.
Yes, there might be a charge for using cameras or phones for photography inside the sanctuary. Some reviews suggest a fee of around ₹200.
Generally, pets are not allowed inside bird sanctuaries to ensure the safety and well-being of the resident birds. It's best to leave your pets at your accommodation. :dog:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Shuka Vana is home to a wide variety of exotic and rescued parrots, parakeets, and other bird species from around the world.
Yes, many birds are friendly and may land on your shoulder or hand, offering a unique interactive experience. This might incur an additional charge for photos.
Absolutely! Children are often fascinated by the colorful birds and the opportunity to interact with them. It's a great educational and fun outing for families.
The ashram complex also features a beautiful bonsai garden, a serene atmosphere for meditation, and a large Hanuman statue.
A visit typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how much time you spend observing the birds and exploring the area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are shops at the entrance selling eateries and merchandise. You can also find food stalls within the ashram complex. :hamburger:
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally good practice to consume your own food outside the main bird enclosures to maintain hygiene. :apple:
The ashram complex offers basic snacks and refreshments. For a wider variety of dining options, you would need to venture back into Mysore city. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
The aviary itself offers countless opportunities with colorful birds. The bonsai garden also provides a more tranquil backdrop for photography.
Photography is generally allowed, but there might be a fee for using cameras or phones. Be mindful of the birds and avoid using flash.
Yes, there are dedicated areas for photo shoots where you can have birds sit on you for professional-style pictures, usually for an extra charge.
Avoid disturbing the birds. Flash photography might be discouraged. Always check for any specific signage or staff instructions regarding photography. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan your visit during the cooler parts of the day (morning or late afternoon) to keep kids comfortable. Wear comfortable shoes as there's walking involved. Be prepared for potential charges for photos if your kids are eager to capture the moment. The free entry is a huge plus for budget-conscious families.
❤️ Bird Enthusiasts & Photographers
Tips for enthusiasts: Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when birds are most active. Be aware of potential photography fees and be respectful of the birds' space. The bonsai garden also offers unique photographic opportunities.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Peace-Lovers
Tips for seekers: Combine your visit to the aviary with time spent in the ashram's gardens or near the statues for a more complete spiritual experience. Attend any available discourses or activities if your visit aligns with them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision Behind Shuka Vana
The free entry policy is a deliberate choice to make this experience accessible to everyone, reflecting the ashram's charitable ethos. However, this model presents a challenge for sustainability. Visitors have noted that while the free entry is appreciated, a more robust revenue stream could significantly aid the sanctuary's long-term operations and expansion.
Ideas proposed by visitors include a nominal fee for camera usage or interactive bird experiences, allowing those who wish to capture memories or engage more closely to contribute directly to the birds' care. This approach aims to balance accessibility with the need for financial support, ensuring Shuka Vana can continue its vital work for years to come.
An Immersive Bird Experience
The highlight for many is the chance for birds to land on visitors, a truly memorable interaction. While this can be a magical moment for photos, it's important to note that there might be an additional charge for such close encounters and photography. Visitors are advised to be calm and gentle, following the guidance provided by the sanctuary staff to ensure a positive experience for both themselves and the birds.
Beyond the direct interaction, the sheer variety of colorful birds, from tiny parakeets to larger species, is captivating. The sounds of the birds, while sometimes loud, add to the vibrant atmosphere. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the beauty and diversity of avian life in a well-maintained and healthy setting.
Beyond the Birds: The Ashram's Tranquility
A notable feature within the ashram complex is the Bonsai Garden. This meticulously maintained garden showcases a variety of sculpted bonsai trees, providing a peaceful and aesthetically pleasing space to wander through. It offers a calming contrast to the lively aviary and adds another layer of beauty to the visit.
Visitors often praise the overall cleanliness and thoughtful design of the ashram and its surroundings. The presence of a stunning idol of Lord Dattatreya and a massive Hanuman statue further enhances the spiritual ambiance, making a visit to Shuka Vana a holistic experience that nourishes both the love for nature and the soul.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit