Gopalaswamy Betta, Bandipur National Park - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings
Distance (From Bandipur National Park): 19 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 2-3 Hours
Transportation Options: Cab
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 9 km from Hangla, and 19 km from Bandipur, Gopalaswamy Betta is a majestic and lofty hill lying in the core area of the Bandipur National Park. It is one of the popular places to visit in places to visit in Bandipur.
Also known as the Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, the Gopalaswamy Hills is situated at an altitude of 1,450 m. The hills get the prefix Himavad since the mountain is surrounded by mist all year round. Himavad means fog, while Betta means mountain in the native Kannada language. It is also the highest peak in the Bandipur National Park. A car festival is celebrated for 7 days in March / April.
The hill is famous for the Gopalaswamy temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. This temple was built by King Chola Ballala in 1315 AD. The hill thus is deemed to be a place of worship and holds great religious importance. Gopalaswamy Betta is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding hills. There are several lakes around the hill. Visitors are particularly fond of the spectacular views of the sunrises and sunsets from the top of the hill.
As the hill is located in the core area of the Bandipur National Park it is frequented by wildlife, especially elephants. Hence, an elephant safari is offered at the place under administrative regulations. This fantastic experience ensures that the tourists enjoy the scenic views of the mountains as well as get a look at the wildlife that thrives here.
The temple on top of the hill is well connected by road. Since private vehicles are not allowed up the hill, the government has made arrangements for KSRTC buses to take passengers from the bottom of the mountain to the hilltop. Private vehicles need to be parked below the hill entrance, and there is no parking fee for the same. Entry fee is collected at the forest checkpost at foot of the hill (4 Kms before the temple).
Timings: 8.30 AM - 4 PM
Entr Fee: Rs. 50 for Car, Rs. 25 for Bike, & Rs. 800 per Person for Elephant Safari
