The capital of Dev Bhoomi, Shimla is a natural heaven renowned for several colonial architectural marvels and scenic hills. Among its natural and manmade wonders, the Queen of Hills is home to the Himalayan Bird Park, which houses a variety of rare and exotic birds. The park is famous among visitors who wish to take a walk around a variety of beautiful avian species that are kept in the open.
For nature lovers, this place is an absolute heaven and allows one to relax in a refreshing ambiance while witnessing the charm of colorful birds. This blog will feature everything you must know about Himalayan Bird Park that can assist you in planning a perfect trip to this beautiful destination.
Table of Contents
Overview of Himalayan Bird Park in Shimla
A unique opportunity to witness the natural charm of diverse avian species is presented by the Himalayan Bird Park, nestled in a tranquil setting in the Queen of Hills. From Himachal’s former state bird, Monal to colorful peacocks and a variety of pheasants, the park houses many exotic and rare bird species. The park remains flocked with wildlife photographers and nature lovers throughout the year.
The primary vision behind establishing this park was to present a place where people can be encouraged and aware of the importance of biodiversity preservation. The only mission behind opening it was to motivate people to support the conservation of beautiful local and exotic birds. The park serves as the best way to observe birds’ natural charm and develop empathy among visitors for them.
Location of Himalayan Bird Park, Shimla
The Queen of Hills is blessed with many natural wonders and the Himalayan Bird Park is a man-made wonder that houses many living examples of this blessing. Popularly known as the Himalayan Aviary, the park is located at an altitude of 2,000 meters in the Chaura Maidan. Its central location in this beautiful town makes it easily accessible for visitors. Vice Regal Lodge is an important landmark in the town located near this park.
How to Reach Himalayan Bird Park Shimla?
Being an ideal destination for a calm stroll amidst nature, the Himalayan Bird Park observes a high influx of visitors, especially during summer. The park remains accessible for some months during winter; however, its accessibility is obstructed due to snowfall for some time during the winter season. Its position is opposite the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies and is only 2.5 km and 1.5 km away from the Old Shimla Bus Stand and Shimla Railway Station, respectively. Additionally, the famous Scandal Point also features superior connectivity to this park and is only 4.5 km away from it. One can easily reach here from any of these nearby locations through public and private transportation means.
Timings of Himalayan Bird Park, Shimla
The home to beautiful and vibrant birds can be easily accessible throughout the week from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening. Summer and early spring months are generally considered good times to visit this park. Talking about any particular daytime, the park is best to be explored during morning and afternoon hours. If you wish to explore every corner of this park, then you need to dedicate at least 2 or 3 hours of your day to it.
Entry Fees for Himalayan Bird Park, Shimla
Home to a range of native and exotic avian species that can be easily explored by anyone by purchasing an extremely affordable entry ticket. For adults (Indians and Foreigners), the entry fee is Rs 10 per person. Entry for children below 5 is free and for children between 5 to 8 years is Rs 5. However, you have to pay additional fees for the camera and video camera, which are Rs 15 and Rs 50, respectively.
Destinations Close to Himalayan Bird Park, Shimla
1. Army Heritage Museum, Annandale- Established in 2006, the Army Heritage Museum offers valuable insights into 5000-year-old military people. This astonishing museum houses an extensive collection of traditional weapons, flags, uniforms, and other military items. Other things to explore here include a golf course, a cafe, and a cactus garden.
2. Kali Bari Temple, Mall Road- Dedicated to goddess Shyamala, the Kali Bari Temple is a center for locals and visitors who wish to seek blessings for the fearsome reincarnation of Goddess Kali. The unique Hindu-style architecture and captivating views of the town mesmerize every visitor to this temple.
3. Mashobra- This beautiful hill station is another popular tourist destination, which is renowned for its lush oak and deodar forests and mist-covered hills. The town is very popular for the Mahasu Festival, a two-day annual festival dedicated to the village’s main deity, and the Ice Skating Festival. It houses many scenic trails and hot springs.
4. Jakhu Temple- Home to a 108-foot-tall Lord Hanuman statue this beautiful temple is a major devotional hub in the town. Nestled in Shimla’s highest peak, the temple is very famous for its alluring sunrise, sunset, and town views. The traditional Himachali-style architecture of this temple features intricate wood carvings, paintings, and sculptures.
Conclusion
A visit to the Himalayan Bird Park will allow you to learn more about the exquisite world of wildlife, which offers a great opportunity to witness a diverse variety of avian species in a peaceful natural environment. Not only this park is a perfect entertaining spot in Shimla but also assists in realizing the severe impact on the life and habitat of wildlife species due to problems related with deforestation and urbanization. Create beautiful memories for life with your family and friends at this serene place with a minimal entry fee. Every corner of the Himalayan Aviary will leave you captivated through its enchanting natural wonders.
Also read: The 10 Most Famous Foods of Himachal Pradesh