Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta...!!

I had to enquire with a couple of villagers before taking the right detour to Himavad Gopalswamy betta, the highest point in Bandipur national park. At a height of more than 1450 m  above sea level, this tiny hill temple in Chamrajnagar district attracts numerous devotees and tourists. After some proper guidance, I got on to the long, narrow winding road aligned with greenery on either sides that led to the temple. The roads aren't in that great shape but the magnificent greenery all around makes for a lovely drive to the base of the hill. At the base is a gate with an entry fee. The hill is a plastic free zone and all plastic materials have to be handed over at the gate which can be collected on the way back. The roads turn twisty from there and you gain height with wonderful vistas opening up way below. It is a nice little drive up to the misty temple on Gopalswamy hills, which are quite frequented by wild elephants.

Built in 14th century by  the Hoysalas and later taken care by the Wodeyars, the temple enshrines Lord Krishna. The temple and its surroundings are quite well known to be wrapped in mist during most part of the year. However, I did not encounter heavy mist, but it was quite cold. There was a local minstrel who was blowing the conch as I walked up the steps. Painted in hues of red and white, along with golden tops, the temple looked gorgeous.

It was a clear sky and with rolling green hills in the background, the place seemed so serene and beautiful. There were very few visitors at the temple, most of them either on their way to Bandipur or returning from the wildlife park. It felt so blissful to circumambulate the temple, taking in the picturesque vistas. I found many visitors gazing at the natural beauty of the place in oblivion. The mist covered hills behind the temple and the wonderful vistas way below are a delight for any visitor and would spellbind them for long.

 

When on a holiday in Bandipur national park, if you have half a day to spare, Himavad Gopalswamy betta is an ideal place to enjoy some scenic vistas and before you realize you would be covered in a blanket of mist.

Signing Note- A serene getaway inside Bandipur...!!

Route- Bandipur- Sri Hangala (left turn)- Himavad Gopalswamy betta

Distance- 21 Kms from Bandipur

                11 Kms from Sri Hangala

                20 Kms from Gundlupet