The district administration plans to introduce 10-minute helicopter rides during the Mahamastakabhisheka of Gomateshwara at Shravanabelagola in Channarayapatna taluk next year. Sources say the price will likely be less than what was charged for rides in Mysuru during the Dasara celebrations.
Pavan Hans Ltd., a Union government enterprise, has agreed to operate helicopter rides for about a month from February 1.
Deputy Commissioner Rohini Sindhuri held talks with representatives of Pavan Hans Ltd. in Hassan on Thursday. The enterprise offered 8-minute rides in Mysuru for ₹ 2,300 an adult. “Pavan Hans has agreed to offer 10-minute rides covering the Gomateshwara statue and surrounding areas. We are planning to include even the Hemavati reservoir in Gorur as well,” Ms. Sindhuri told The Hindu on Friday.
The company has also shown interest in including packages covering other tourist destinations in the district. The district administration wants to include Belur, Halebid and the Western Ghats in those packages.
“Pavan Hans is willing to offer helicopter services between Bengaluru and Hassan as well if there are any takers for it,” the DC said. The district administration and the company have not decided on the price chart. However, officials want the charges to be on the lower side so that more people can enjoy the experience. “We are negotiating for a price lower than what was offered in Mysuru,” Ms. Sindhuri said.
