SRI GANAPATHI SACHIDANANDA ASHRAM MYSORE

AVADHOOTA DATTA PEETHAM

Established by Sri Ganapathy Sachidananda Swamy in 1996, the Avadhoota
Datta Peetham is inside the Ashram. The spiritual centre in Mysore aims at
humanity’s social, moral and divine enlightenment. It caters for a wide range of
philanthropic and community services, including providing food for people
experiencing poverty, shelter to people without homes, scholarships,
ambulance services to remote places and many more.

Swamy, a descendant of the Dattatreya Avadhoota lineage, is renowned for his
healing powers and meditation music. He teaches and promotes the ancient
Vedic traditions and spiritual upliftment of the body and minds through Karma
Yoga.

INSIDE THE ASHRAM

The ashram complex is over 40 acres, with various sculptures and architectural
marvels. Among them are the beautifully sculptured gate and the Dina Stupa
(365 stone pillars spread across the Ashram). With large ponds and herbal

gardens, the complex houses numerous temples, including the Narasimha
Swamy and Lord Venkateshwara temples. The Hanuman, or the Karya Siddhi
Anjaneya Swamy temple, stands out with its massive idol of Hanuman.

The Ashram also houses several halls used for different intentions. Among
them is the Universal prayer hall that can accommodate over a thousand
devotees. Another highlight is the multi-purpose auditorium with its
Saptaswara Devatha Mantapa, a pillared shrine worshipping the deities of 7
musical notes. At Anna Purna Mandir, visitors can have breakfast, lunch, and
dinner.

SHUKA VANA

Within the Ashram is the Shuka Vana, one of the best family-friendly
attractions in Mysore. It has bagged the Guinness Book of World Records for
hosting the largest number of birds in an aviary. Shuka Vana has over 2000
birds and 250 parrot species. It was started in 2012 by Sri Ganapathi
Sachidananda Swamy as a bird rehabilitation centre for abandoned and
physically challenged birds.

Entry into Shuka Vana is free of cost.

PHOTOGRAPHY WITH EXOTIC BIRDS CHARGES

The aviary in Mysore provides opportunities for bird lovers to click photos with
the birds such as parrots, sun conures and Macaws.

One person: Rs. 200

FEEDING AND PHOTOGRAPHY CHARGES

While exploring the aviary, don’t miss the chance to feed the friendly birds.
Imagine holding a platter of fresh fruits and having over 50 birds perch on your
head and shoulders as they joyfully nibble on the delicious treats you offer
them. This makes it one of the best places for kids in Mysore.

1 person : Rs. 110
2 person : Rs. 120
3 person : Rs. 130

BONSAI GARDEN

Housed within the Ashram, the Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden, spread over
4 acres, was established in 1986. It is one of the best locations for educational
experiences and eco-tourism in Mysore. The garden has over 450 carefully
shaped miniature plants and is divided into zones based on specific Indian

themes and traditions. They are:

Nakshatra Vana: has plants representing the 27 stars of traditional Indian
Astrology

Rashi Vana: have plants associated with each zodiac sign

Saptarishi Vana: have plants linked to the seven Indian rishis or sages.

Raga Vana: has plants related to classical music in India

Panchayatana Vana: 5 plant gardens tied to the concept of Mother Goddess.

ENTRY FEE FOR BONSAI GARDEN

Adult: Rs. 25

ASHRAM TIMINGS

The ashram complex is open every day except on Wednesdays throughout the
year.

Morning: 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Evening: 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm

PLAN YOUR VISIT

• The best time to visit the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda ashram is from
  September to February when the weather is cooler.
• Since it takes around 3 hours to explore the place, reaching here at 9:30
  am is recommended.
• Mobile phones should be switched off at the aviary, and photography is
  prohibited.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS NEAR THE DATTA PEETHAM

• Mysore Zoo ( 2.9 km ): one of the largest zoos covering 160 acres and
  housing some of the rarest and endangered species on the planet.
• Mysore Palace( 3.7 km ): A magnicent palace of the Wadiyar dynasty,built in an Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
• Sand Museum( 4.5 km ): The museum displays almost 200 sculptures of
  sand in different themes
• Chamundi Hills ( 12 km ): Chamundi Hills is a sacred landmark in
  Mysore, topped by a historic temple dedicated to the goddess
  Chamundeshwari.
• Brindavan Gardens( 22 km ): A beautiful garden with musical fountains.
  This is perfect for an evening picnic with friends and family.