Gopalaswamy Betta

About Gopalaswamy Betta

Enveloped in mist most of the time, the hills are literally an abode in the clouds giving one an ethereal feeling of walking in them. As the mist rises from the hillock, the surroundings become visible offering breathtaking glimpses. There are many scenic valleys, gorges and hills like Neeladri, Hamsadri, Garudadri, Pallava and Mallikajunagiri. Abounding in rare flora, the region is virtually a storehouse of medicinal plants.
Far more wooded and quiet than many other hill stations, Gopalaswamy Betta is like a watch tower for the Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary and is an ideal picnic spot.A 13th century fort of the Palegars of Terakanambi and a temple within is believed to have been patronised by the Mysore Maharajas.

This temple was built by the King Chola Ballala during AD 1315. There will be car festival during Phalguna masa - Sravana Nakshatra(during March-April). This is a 7 days celeberation. Unlike in most of other temples in India, here, the car (Ratha) is made during this time and will be dismantled after the celeberations. The temple is small, neat and clean. A rock can be seen at a distance of one Kms from the temple. There is a belief that people not having children, on performing puja here (Santana praapti) , will have kids.
Other than the spiritual importance, this place is an excellent picnic spot for all. There are total 77 lakes situated over a distance of 5-6 kms on this hilly region. These can be seen only by walking through hills and forest areas and the way is naturally made. Among these, one lake is called Hamsa theertha (Swan lake). There is a story behind this lake. Once a crow took bath in this lake and became Hamsa (Hamsa means swan in Kannada). Interestingly, one cannot see any crows surrounding this place. The lines of hill ranges at Madhumalai and Nilgiris can be seen from the temple premesis.

History

The garbha griha contains an idol of Krishna holding a flute under a tree. Krishna is flanked by his friends and the posture is that of a dance with the left big toe resting on the right one. The panel also features several characters and icons from Krishna’s avatar.

Lord Gopalaswamy’s idol is flanked by his consorts, Rukmini and Satyabhama. Cows and cowherds are featured towards the right side of the panel.

Legend says that sage Agastya, performed intense penance and as a result lord Vishnu blessed this place and promised to reside here. As this was a place of worship and penance, it used to be called as ‘Hamsatheertha’, which means the lake of swans in Sanskrit. Swan acquires a mythological significance in Hinduism, symbolizing knowledge, tranquility and salvation.

Interesting things to Visit

Being a part of the Bandipur wildlife sanctuary, the hills are frequented by grazing wild elephants. The place is also known for its picturesque views of the surrounding hills, valleys and visitors may also see the spectacular sunrise and sunset from the top.[1].

Nearest Visiting places

BR Hills : Biligiri Rangana Betta (short form: BR Hills), refers to a cliff in the BR Hills range which is a North-South range in the Yelandur Taluk. It is famous for the Ranganathaswamy temple.

Kanakagiri : Kanakagiri in Chamarajanagara Taluk is a famous Jain pilgrim centre. It is described as Hemanga Desha in ancient works and is said that Bhagwan Sri Mahavira visited this place during his visit to South India.

Tips & Suggestions

Its geographic coordinates are: Latitude 12.97°Ne and longitude 77.56°E [2].
It is approximately 220 km from Bangalore and 75 km from Mysore on the Mysore Ooty road -10 km away from Gundlupet,which is 60 km away from Mysore. There is a motorable road all the way to the top of the hill. Entry fee is collected at the forest depeartment checkpost at foot of the hill.

Location info

**Address:**Situated at a height of 1454 m the relatively unknown Gopalaswamy Betta is an idyllic and especially beautiful hill station tucked 75 km away from Mysore

• **District:**Chamarajanagar

• **Nearest City:**Bandipur,Mysore and Ooty

• Best time to visit: Mid June. Because of its altitude, is endowed with a pleasant weather throughout the year.

Climate & weather

The brief winter period in Mysore can be a bit chilly with intermittent spells of rain. Misty mornings usually welcome the early birds. Temperature usually falls in the range of 12-30oC.
Clear Sky, with scattered clouds. Rains were due in this part of the country. The name - Himavad meaning fog, as the hill be covered with fog almost through out the year. Yes even during peak summer.

Things to do at Gopalaswamy Betta

From there walk back through fog towards the temple. It tooks almost half an hour to come out ofter the darshan as the temple is crowded. When came out, you may find completely different view & a dramatic change. Fog had cleared and can enjoy clear view, so that pne can sit there, near the temple admiring the beauty.

How to reach Gopalaswamy Betta

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Mysore

• **Nearest Airport:**Mysore Airport

• **Road Transport:**From Bangalore 220kms, Mysore 80Kms, Ooty 80kms, Bandipur 15kms.

Hotels & accommodation nearby

There is a forest department guest house at the top of the picturesque hill, which can be reserved in advance through the forest office in Mysore or Bandipur. The guest house provides basic accommodation, food and other essentials should be brought along by visitors.
Visitors are allowed from around 6am till 5pm. Overnight stay on top is not allowed. No food is available at the hill top. Accomodation available at Forest guest house if booked in advance. Trekking and videography in the surrounding hills are allowed only with prior permission and to be accompanied by the forest department guides.

Things to carry

Due to the salubrious climate, one does not need to lose sleep over packing the right apparels. Cotton apparels would suffice for a summer trip while winter clothing should consist of light woolens.

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**Gundlupet

• **Nearest Hospital:**Gundlupet

• Society/Community Phone Number

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Karnataka’s cities offer diverse cuisine. Bangalore has a legendary food scene from iconic darshinis (stand-up eateries) to craft breweries. Mysore is known for Mysore pak and traditional meals. Temple towns (Udupi, Dharmasthala, Murudeshwar) offer excellent vegetarian fare.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Accessibility

Religious sites may have steps at the entrance and may not have ramps. The interiors are generally level once inside. Some historic sites have uneven stone floors. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance.

Rules & restrictions

Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered (scarves or shawls are often available at the entrance). Photography is generally permitted without flash, but video may be restricted. Maintain silence inside. Mobile phones should be on silent mode. Remove shoes if required (indicated by signage). Do not touch artefacts or altars. These are active places of worship — respect services, festivals, and devotees.

Best photography spots

Karnataka has a rich collection of churches primarily in Mangalore (Mangalorean Catholic), Bangalore (colonial-era), and Mysore. St. Philomena’s Cathedral in Mysore (neo-Gothic, one of Asia’s largest) and the Rosario Cathedral in Mangalore are the most photogenic. The interiors of Mangalorean churches with their detailed altars are worth shooting.

Best time to visit Gopalaswamy Betta

Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) is the best time for a peaceful darshan with fewer crowds. Major festivals attract large crowds — visit on regular days for a more serene experience. Winter months (October to March) offer pleasant weather for temple visits.

Timings & opening hours

Typically 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Pooja timings vary — morning abhisheka is usually around 6:00-7:00 AM, evening aarti around 6:00-7:00 PM. Some temples have specific timings for darshan. Temple may close during midday hours.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry is generally free for all devotees. Special pooja tickets or darshan packages may cost ₹50-₹200. Camera fee: ₹20-₹50 for still cameras, ₹100-₹200 for video cameras. Parking is usually free or nominal (₹10-₹20).

Duration needed

30 minutes to 1 hour for darshan and exploring the temple premises. If the temple has historical significance or architectural interest, plan 1-2 hours.

Safety tips

Temple premises are generally safe. Keep valuables secure in crowded areas. Follow temple rules and dress code. Remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum. Be aware of your surroundings during festivals when crowds are heavy.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest railway station varies by location — typically the district headquarters station. Nearest airport: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) or Mangalore International Airport (IXE). Local transport includes buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.

Frequently asked questions

What is the dress code for visiting the temple? Modest clothing is required. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Traditional Indian attire is appreciated.

Is photography allowed inside the temple? Photography rules vary — check signage at the entrance. Flash photography and video recording are typically restricted inside the sanctum.

What are the main festivals celebrated here? Major Hindu festivals like Mahashivaratri, Navaratri, and annual temple festivals (brahmotsava) are celebrated with special poojas and cultural programmes.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Karnataka
• Category: Pilgrims Destination

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.

Photo gallery of Gopalaswamy Betta

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Gopalaswamy Betta on popular travel photography sites and social media.