Pure monoclinic phase of single crystalline Ga2O3 (beta gallium oxide) nanorods have been synthesized using surfactant through facile reflux condensation process. The analysis of X-ray diffraction pattern and Raman spectrum confirmed the single crystallinity and high purity of beta-Ga2O3 nanorods. The scanning electron microscope images revealed the parallel arrangement of nanorods and the diameter was evaluated from transmission electron microscope as 50 nm. The composition and thermal decomposition process were carefully investigated. A plausible mechanism was proposed to explain the formation of beta-Ga2O3 nanorods. From the N-2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, the specific surface area was calculated as 49.5 m(2)/g. The band gap energy was evaluated as 4.5 eV from the absorption spectrum and the photoluminescence study displayed the characteristic blue emission of beta-Ga2O3 nanorods. Photocatalytic activity of the material has been investigated by the degradation of Rhodamine B under ultra-violet light irradiation. The antibacterial potential of beta-Ga2O3 nanorods were investigated against Escherichia coil and Staphylococcus aureus. The diameter of the zone of inhibition was found to be 16 and 12 mm respectively. Crown Copyright (C) 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.