Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta

Beauty of Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta is majestic, marvellous and lofty with a height of 1450. It is situated under the central part of the Bandipur National Park, the best places to visit near Bangalore. Clouds zoom in and create a mesmerizing soulful view of nature.

The hill is named Himavad in comparison to the mountain bounded by the haze throughout the year. Himavad meaning fog, whereas, betta means mountain. An extensive area is full of the wooden forest trails where a national park is located. The hill situated at the core of the diverse wildlife Bandipur National park. Situated at the district namely, Chamarajanagar in Karnataka.

The place is popular due to the activities available here. Elephant safari is greatly explored by tourists. The sightseeing temples, religious spots, and historical places explored at a large. The picturesque beauty of the hilly area is engulfing with spectacular sunrise and sunsets.

The Gopalaswamy temple at the Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta is famous due to the dedication to the Lord Venugopala Swamy. It is a personified appearance of the Lord Krishna. The designs inspired by the architects resembling Chola dynasty.

Moreover, the temple designed in a single tier Gopuram, supported by the multifaceted walls of the enclosed space.  On the Mukha Mandapa or the inner porch, it portrays the dasavatara sculpture- the ten avatars of the Lord Vishnu along with the Krishnavatara is observed.

In addition, the temple has numerous portraits consisting of the panel with the lord Krishna idol. The statue is one of the picturesque beauties of Raasleela of Krishna playing the flute. The scene also depicts the scenes of milk seller and the cows. 

Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta history

The popular sage Agastya once performed penance at this place. Lord Vishnu even blessed the spot and made his mind to stay here. The place named as Hamsatheertha, meaning Lake of swans, because of penance and worshipping practiced here. 

The mythological significance of the swan is symbolic to bring in the harmony, salvation and knowledge.

The temple situated on the hilltop built by the Cholas, under the reign of Ballala in 1315 AD.  The enthusiastic devotee of the Lord Venugopala showed much interest in maintaining the shrine. 

Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta opening time
 
The timings are 8:30 am to 4:00 pm every day.

Planning out a one day trip from Bangalore to Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta, is going to add to your cherishable memory.  It is a treat to your eyes to explore the beauty of nature like a bird’s eye. Carrying a binocular is a great idea to explore the place from the hilltop.