Kerala, known as God’s own country, captivates visitors with its tea plantations, enchanting beaches, verdant landscapes, and stunning backwaters. Presenting a new attraction that has sparked conversation in town, we have Jatayu Earth’s Centre, also called Jatayu Nature Park, situated in the Kollam district of Kerala. This remarkable tourist spot features a monumental sculpture of the mythical Jatayu, a bird of great significance in the Indian legend of Ramayana. Beyond being a sightseeing destination, Jatayu Earth’s Centre offers a hub of entertainment with activities such as paintball, rappelling, free climbing, shooting, and more. To prepare for your visit to this architectural marvel, refer to this detailed guide that covers everything you need to know.
Key Information About Jatayu Earth’s Centre
Location: Jatayu Junction, Jatayu Nature Park Rd, Chadayamangalam, Kerala 691534
Opening date: 4th July 2018
Dimensions: Length – 200 feet, Width – 150 feet, Height – 70 feet
Elevation: 1,000 feet above sea level
Timings: Monday to Friday – 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday – 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sculpted by: Mr. Rajiv Anchal
How to reach: Cable car ride, helicopter ride, walkway
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport (52 km)
Nearest railway station: Kollam Junction (36.1 km) and Thiruvananthapuram Central (50.1 km)
Activities offered: Ziplining, rappelling, jummering, bouldering, archery, rifle shooting, chimney climbing, paintball, vertical ladder, and more
Best time to visit: Throughout the year, preferably November to February
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The Mythical Legend of Jatayu
According to the Hindu epic, Ramayana, Jatayu is a demi-god in the form of a vulture. He is the younger son of Aruna, the nephew of Garuda, and a dear friend of Dasharatha, Lord Rama’s father. Jatayu bravely attempted to save Goddess Sita from Ravana, who was abducting her to Lanka as a means of seeking revenge from Lord Rama and Lakshmana. Jatayu fought fiercely to halt Ravana’s chariot, but unfortunately, Ravana severed his left wing, causing Jatayu and his fallen wing to land on the stone known as Jatayupara, where Jatayu Earth’s Centre now stands.
About Jatayu Earth’s Centre
An epitome of sustainable tourism, the Jatayu Earth’s Centre tourism project spans approximately 65 acres of diverse landscape at Jatayupara, near the town of Chadayamangalam in Kollam district, Kerala. Situated 1,000 feet above sea level, this terrain showcases a range of geographical features, including valleys, caves, hills, and rugged rocks. The colossal Jatayu statue is a remarkable artwork crafted over ten years by Mr. Rajiv Anchal, a sculptor, film director, and art director. It stands atop the mighty rock named Jatayupara.
This bird sculpture holds the distinction of being the world’s largest functional bird sculpture, measuring an impressive 200 feet in length, 150 feet in width, and 70 feet in height. Its achievement has earned it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Jatayu epitomizes true bravery through his selfless act of rescuing Sita. Likewise, this sculpture serves as a symbol of homage to women’s safety and honor. Beyond the sculpture, Jatayu Earth’s Centre offers a wide range of activities, such as zip-lining, paintball, trekking, herbal gardens, rejuvenation programs, live music, live kitchen, campfires, and more, attracting travelers from far and wide. Additionally, visitors can explore nearby attractions like Jatayuppara Sree Kodanda Rama Temple, Kilimanoor Palace, and Minerva Cinemaz.
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Activities to Enjoy at Jatayu Earth’s Centre
Discover a range of thrilling activities for people of all ages at the Jatayu Earth’s Centre. Consisting of 4 hills, each hill offers unique experiences. Take a closer look at the detailed information provided below.
Hill 1: Jatayu Rock Hill
Situated at a towering height of 1,000 ft, Hill 1 boasts the magnificent sculpture of Jatayu. Inside this functional sculpture, you’ll find 15,000 square feet of space dedicated to an audio-visual museum, a captivating mini theater, and a Rama Temple. In addition to marveling at the statue, you can immerse yourself in the history, mythological tales, and other intriguing details. At the hilltop, you’ll also find a rainwater reservoir capable of holding 1.5 million liters of water.
Hill 2: Adventure Rock Hill
Credit: Pxhere
Hill 2 offers a wide range of thrilling activities suitable for both kids and adults. Spend an entire day on Hill 2 participating in activities such as rappelling, ziplining, jummering, archery, bouldering, rifle shooting, chimney climbing, and vertical ladder. You can also enjoy a one-hour trek through the secure private forest while appreciating the beauty of nature.
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Hill 3: Elephant Rock Hill
Credit: Needpix
Hill 3 will amaze you with yet another set of exciting activities. In addition to a 250 meter long zip-line zone, this hill offers sky cycling and a chance to gather by a campfire. After a refreshing day, satisfy your appetite at the live kitchen under the moonlight, accompanied by serene and soothing music. Visitors can also participate in forestation activities.
Hill 4: Kitchen Rock Hill
Courtesy: Jatayu Earth’s Center
Hill 4 focuses on wellness and accommodation. Immerse yourself in the rejuvenation experience of Siddha in the caves or explore the herbal gardens filled with diverse plants. The rock also offers accommodation with all necessary amenities, providing a wide array of elements to invigorate your senses. Additionally, you can take advantage of the help-taxi service to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Jatayu sculpture and its serene surroundings.
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Exploring the Path to Jatayu Earth’s Centre
If you’re wondering how to reach Jatayu Earth’s Centre, there are a few convenient options available to you. The closest railway stations to the attraction are Kollam Junction and Thiruvananthapuram Central, located approximately 36.1 km and 50.1 km away, respectively. Additionally, the Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport, situated just 52 km from the attraction. Traveling by cab from the airport or train station is a hassle-free way to reach your destination. Moreover, Jatayu Earth’s Centre enjoys excellent road connectivity throughout Kerala, particularly with major cities. It is conveniently located around 200 meters from the Trivandrum – Kochi highway. For those coming from Trivandrum, hiring a private cab or taxi is highly recommended.
Once you’ve obtained your tickets, you will receive a wristband that grants you access to Jatayu Earth’s Centre. From this point, you have three options to reach the magnificent rock sculpture:
Embark on a Cable Car Ride
Image Courtesy: Jatayu Earth’s Center
Opting for a cable car ride is an excellent choice for those looking to save time and avoid exhaustion. Following a quick security check, you’ll be whisked away to the hilltop within minutes on a Swiss-made cable car that adheres to all safety standards. To avoid queues, consider visiting on a weekday or during early hours.
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Embark on a Scenic Walkway
Image Courtesy: Jatayu Earth’s Center
For adventurers seeking a thrill, the walkway option is perfect. Climb 826 steps while marveling at the breathtaking natural surroundings to reach the colossal sculpture. The walkway consists of nearly 60,000 meticulously laid stones, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Experience a Helicopter Ride
If you’re looking to skip the walkway and indulge in an extraordinary experience, consider a heli-taxi ride. By availing these services, you can witness the splendor of the sculpture and its magnificent surroundings from a bird’s eye view.
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Optimal Timing for a Visit to Jatayu Earth’s Centre
Winter Season (November to February)
The best time to plan your visit to Jatayu Earth’s Centre is during the winter months, spanning from November to February. During this period, the temperature ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, creating a pleasant environment with cool breezes. The delightful weather enhances your sightseeing and outdoor activities, ensuring a truly enjoyable experience.
Monsoon Season (June to September)
Kollam boasts a tropical monsoon climate, with plentiful rainfall occurring between the months of June and September. The temperature during this time ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, creating delightful weather for outdoor activities. If you are a rain enthusiast, a visit during the drizzle will surely enhance your experience. However, it is advisable to check the weather forecast before embarking on your trip.
Summer Season (March to May)
During the summer months of March to May, Kollam experiences scorching heat and high humidity. The weather can be quite challenging, with temperatures averaging around 34 degrees Celsius. Engaging in outdoor activities may be hindered by the intense heat. To escape the sweltering conditions, it is recommended to plan your visit for the early morning or evening hours if you wish to explore the sculptures.
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Exploring Jatayu Earth Centre: Ticket Information and Operating Hours
At present, tickets for Jatayu Earth Centre can only be purchased at the counter located within the premises. The reception area houses the booking counters where you can acquire entry tickets and tickets for various activities. For visitors’ convenience, drinking water kiosks and restrooms are also available. The entry fee for Jatayu Earth Centre is INR 400 per person, exclusive of taxes. The cost of adventurous activities may vary based on the number of activities chosen. Please note that there are no additional charges for carrying cameras or DSLRs, although the use of drones is strictly prohibited.
Jatayu Earth Centre opens from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm from Monday to Friday, and from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
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Helpful Tips
Gain inspiration from this Vis M for Wikimedia Commons
- Prior to your visit, ensure that you have received both doses of the vaccine at least 14 days in advance or carry a negative RT PCR test certificate obtained within 72 hours of your visit.
- Check the weather forecast before planning your visit, as cable car rides may be suspended during unfavorable weather conditions.
- If possible, purchase tickets online in order to avoid last-minute complications.
- Wear sturdy shoes with a firm grip to ensure safety during activities.
- To avoid crowds, consider visiting during the early hours of operation.
- Don’t forget to bring essentials such as hand sanitizer, masks, caps, and sunscreen lotion.
- Avoid wearing jewelry that may be lost during the activities.
- Always follow the instructions provided by the marshals or guides.
- Outside food is not permitted at the centre.
- Maintain social distancing whenever possible and remember to always wear a mask.
Are you already captivated by the magnificence of Jatayu Earth Centre? We’re sure you are! This architectural marvel offers the best of nature and countless adventure opportunities, ensuring that you’ll never experience a dull moment. So, when you plan your next trip to Kerala, be sure to set aside a day for this remarkable attraction and create unforgettable moments with your loved ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Jatayu Earth’s Centre
What is the renowned feature of Jatayu Earth’s Centre?
Jatayu Earth’s Centre proudly showcases the largest bird sculpture in the world, known as Jatayu. This extraordinary creation, crafted by Mr. Rajiv Anchal, spans an impressive length of 200 feet, width of 150 feet, and height of 70 feet. Additionally, the centre offers a diverse range of activities such as rappelling, paintball, free climbing, shooting, and more.
How much does a ticket for Jatayu Earth’s Centre cost?
The entry fee for Jatayu Earth’s Centre is INR 400, encompassing both admission and a cable car ride. Visitors who prefer the walkway option would also need to pay the same price.
What is the best way to travel from Varkala to Jatayu Earth’s Centre?
To reach Jatayu Earth’s Centre from Varkala, you can take the Hadayamangalam Pallikkal Road which covers a distance of approximately 28.5 km. The journey can be completed within 45 minutes.
Which airport and train station are the closest to Jatayu Earth’s Centre?
Kollam Junction and Thiruvananthapuram Central are the nearest railway stations to Jatayu Earth’s Centre, located approximately 36.1 km and 50.1 km away, respectively. Additionally, Trivandrum International Airport serves as the closest airport to this attraction, situated 52 km away.
Am I allowed to bring a DSLR/camera inside Jatayu Earth’s Centre?
Certainly! Visitors are permitted to carry DSLR/cameras inside Jatayu Earth’s Centre without any additional charges.
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