Bonsai Garden

One of the more unique attractions of the Royal Mysore, the Bonsai Garden of Mysore is home to over a 100 different varieties of Bonsai trees spread across this vast estate. It is a part of the Avadoota Datta Peetham of the Sri Ganapathi Sachidananda Ashrama. Initially a pet project by the fascinated Swamiji, the garden now hosts 450 miniature tree across an area of 4 acres, filled with these quirky dwarf trees. The beauty of the garden is accentuated by the stream that flows within, as well as the placement of Buddha statues and monkey statues around the area, representative of the zen culture from where the art of Bonsai was evolved. There is also a deer park to cater to the nature lovers who visit.

The garden and the exhibits have been divided into various zones within, representing different Indian traditions and beliefs as followed by the Swamiji. Thus, one 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. The garden is indeed a delight to walk through, and one can't help but appreciate the fine art and effort required to shape a 100-year-old tree within a lovely terracotta pot.

This garden is also the venue for bonsai conventions held during December. These 3-day seminars see experts from different parts of the world conducting workshops on bonsai plants.