Bonsai Garden Of Mysore or locally known as Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden is in Mysore.
Spread across a vast estate of 4 acres, this garden is a hidden gem and a part of the Avadoota Datta Peetham of the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashrama. Initially started as a pet project by the fascinated Swamiji, this garden now boasts over 450 miniature trees of more than a 100 different varieties of Bonsai trees.
Walking through this garden, you’ll be greeted by quirky dwarf trees that are shaped and miniaturized with incredible effort and care. The beauty of the garden is accentuated by the stream that flows within and the placement of Buddha and monkey statues around the area, representative of the zen culture from where the art of Bonsai was evolved.
But wait, there’s more! The garden and the exhibits have been divided into various zones representing different Indian traditions and beliefs followed by the Swamiji. You can find plants with connections to the Indian zodiac system, Indian classical music, the representation of the 27 stars of traditional Indian astrology, the seven Indian sages or Saptarishi, and five plant gardens closely linked with the concept of the Mother Goddess.
And if you happen to be in Mysore in December, you’re in luck! The garden hosts Bonsai conventions with experts from different parts of the world conducting workshops on Bonsai plants.
So, if you’re looking for a unique experience that will take you through a fine art of shaping a 100-year-old tree within a lovely terracotta pot, head over to Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden!
Pro tip: Don’t step on the grass and watch out for the signs to assist you through the garden. And don’t forget to check out the small lake and the laughing Buddha statue! It’ll take you approximately an hour to explore the whole premises. And oh, the entrance fee is just ₹25 for anyone above the age of 9 or 10.
Happy traveling, folks!