The people visiting Shravanabelagola during Mahamastakabhisheka have an opportunity to dabble with water sports this time. Janivara Tank, located about 4 km from the pilgrimage centre, is almost ready to offer water sports and boating. The Tourism Department has provided basic infrastructure there by spending about ₹50 lakh.
“The infrastructure is ready. The private agency chosen to run the show has procured boats to offer 13 programmes there. A few special boats will arrive soon. The place will be ready by February 7, the day Mahamastakabhisheka will be inaugurated. However, the activities will start once the place is inaugurated formally,” said U. Jitendranath, assistant director of the Tourism Department.
The department has chosen a Karwar-based agency to run the show. According to the agreement between the agency and the department, the former has to handle things for five years and pay 35% of the amount collected from customers to the department.
“We have developed the infrastructure utilising about three acres of government land adjacent to the tank. The private agency will be responsible for conducting the events and maintaining the place for five years,” the official told The Hindu .
Helicopter rides
The State government has also consulted Pavan Hans Ltd., a Union government undertaking, to offer helicopter rides during Mahamastakabhisheka.
The company is making preparations to offer rides from this week. Three helicopters of six-seat capacity will be made available. While rides will be conducted on two, one will be kept on standby for emergency requirements. The price will be ₹2,100 per person.
“The ride will be 8-10 minutes long. It will cover Shravanabelagola. We are planning to extend the ride so that other tourist places such as Belur and Halebid can be covered,” Mr. Jitendranath said. The helicopter rides can be booked online.
