Gopalaswamy Betta (hill) is a lofty hill in picturesque surroundings, which is situated about 16 km south-west of Gundlupet. It rises to a height of 4,770 feet above the sea level. It has been also referred to as Dakshina Govardhanagiri. The summit of the hill appears to be enveloped by clouds
and mist, and hence the name Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta (Himavad means covered in mist). There is an old fort on the hill said to have been constructed during the 13th century. Inside the fort is the Gopalaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The gopuram of the temple is single-tiered and rests on the compound wall of the enclosure. The parapet wall of the facade of the mukha mantapa contains the sculpture of dashavatara (the avatars of the Lord Vishnu). The garbhagriha contains an idol of Lord Krishna playing the flute under a tree. The idol of Lord Krishna is beautifully sculpted with the left toe resting on the right one.
Nature: Area around Venugopalaswamy temple is a sight to behold. On most days white mist gives the impression of snow. Hima in Kannada refers to snow.
Timing: Access to Himavad Gopalaswamy hill is available from 8.30 AM till 4 PM
Nearby: Bandipur Tiger Reserve & National Park (20 kms) and Nanjanagudu (55 kms) are some of the places to visit along with Himavad Gopalaswamy betta.
How to reach:
Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta is 220 kms from Bengaluru and 80 kms from Mysuru. From the foot of the hill, visitors need to take shuttle buses to reach Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta. Private vehicles are not allowed on the hills.
Stay: Gundlupete town, 20 kms away, has basic hotels to stay. Jungle Lodges & Resorts operated Bandipur Safari Lodge is 16 kms from Himavad Gopalaswamy hills. Several homestays and resorts are available in the area. More stay options are available in Mysuru city.
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