God’s own country, Kerala spreads its charm with tea plantations, scintillating beaches, lush greenery, and scenic backwaters. The destination is now home to a new gem that has been the talk of the town—Jatayu Earth’s Centre. Also known as Jatayu Nature Park, this tourist attraction lies in Kollam district of Kerala. It is a gigantic sculpture of the mythological bird named Jatayu who played a pivotal role in the Indian legend, Ramayana. Apart from being a sightseeing spot, Jatayu Earth’s Centre is a hub for entertainment where one can enjoy activities like paintball, rappelling, free climbing, shooting, etc. Before heading to this architectural marvel, check out this comprehensive guide including all the deets you need to know.
Quick Details About Jatayu Earth’s Centre
Location: Jatayu Junction, Jatayu Nature Park Rd, Chadayamangalam, Kerala 691534.
Opening date: 4 July, 2018
Dimensions: 200 feet length,150 feet width and 70 feet height
Elevation:1,000 ft. above the sea level
Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (Monday to Friday); 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Saturday and Sunday)
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, etc.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year, preferably November to February
40 Interesting Places To Visit In Kollam On Your 2023 Trip To South India!
Who Was 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 also an old friend of Dasharatha, Lord Rama’s father. Jatayu tried to rescue Goddess Sita from Ravana who was kidnapping her to Lanka in order to take revenge from Lord Rama and Laxmana. Jatayu made meticulous efforts to stop Ravana’s chariot. However, Ravana cut off this left wing and Jatayu along with his wing fell on the stone Jatayupara on which Jatayu Earth’s Centre is presently built.
About Jatayu Earth’s Centre
An epitome of sustainable tourism, Jatayu Earth’s Centre tourism project is spread nearly 65 acres of multi terrain landscape at Jatayupara near Chadayamangalam town in Kollam district of Kerala. The terrain lies 1,000 feet above sea level and features an array of geographic features including valleys, caves, hills, and rugged rocks. This colossal statue of Jatayu is an exceptional art work of a sculptor, film director, and art director, Mr Rajiv Anchal who with his team devoted 10 years to built it on a mighty rock named Jatayupara.
While being 200 feet long,150 feet wide and 70 feet high, it is the largest functional bird sculpture in the world that has etched its name into the Guinness Book of World Records. Jatayu portrays true gallantry as he risked his life while saving Sita from abduction. Likewise, his sculpture symbolizes a tribute to women’s safety and honor. Apart from the sculpture, a wide range of activities like zip lining, paintball, trekking, etc., herbal gardens, rejuvenation programs, live music, live kitchen, campfire are a few features that lure travelers from far and wide. Furthermore, Jatayuppara Sree Kodanda Rama Temple, Kilimanoor Palace, and Minerva Cinemaz are a few places to visit near Jatayu Earth’s Centre.
8 Electrifying Things To Do In Kollam For An Adventure-Filled Excursion!
Things To Do At Jatayu Earth’s Centre
Jatayu Earth’s Centre offers an array of activities for visitors of all age groups. The attraction comprises 4 hills and each offers varied activities. Check out the detailed information below.
Hill 1: Jatayu Rock Hill
Sitting at a height of 1,000 ft, Hill 1 features the prime sculpture of Jatayu. The 15,000 square feet of utility space inside this functional sculpture comprises an audio- visual museum, multi-dimensional mini theater, and also a Rama Temple. Apart from marveling at the statue, you can learn the history, mythological stories, and several other intriguing details. Besides this, the hill top features a rain water reservoir having a capacity to hold 1.5 million liters of water.
Hill 2: Adventure Rock Hill
Hill 2 proffers a wide range of adventurous activities for kids as well as for adults. With activities like rappelling, ziplining, jummering, archery, bouldering, rifle shooting, chimney climbing, and vertical ladder, you can spend an entire day on hill 2. Besides this, trekking through the safe private forest for an hour while admitting the natural charm is another activity to enjoy here.
19 Amazing Places To Visit Near Kollam In 2023 That Offer The Perfect Getaway
Hill 3: Elephant Rock Hill
Hill 3 impresses visitors with another set of activities. Apart from featuring a 250 meter long zip-line zone, the hill has a space for sky cycling and campfire. Post a rejuvenating day, satiate your hunger pangs near the live kitchen under the moonlight with soul-soothing music. Visitors can also be a part of forestation activities.
Hill 4: Kitchen Rock Hill
Image Courtesy: Jatayu Earth’s Center
Hill 4 focuses on wellness and accommodation. From Siddha rejuvenation in the caves to herbal gardens with varied plants to accommodation with all essential facilities, this rock features a plethora of elements to invigorate your senses. Besides this, one can avail of the help-taxi service to witness the bird-eye-view of the Jatayu sculpture and its serene surroundings.
14 Exotic Kollam Hotels Where One Can Enjoy A Comfortable Stay Away From Home!
How To Reach Jatayu Earth’s Centre
The nearest railway stations to Jatayu Earth’s Centre are Kollam Junction and Thiruvananthapuram Central which are around 36.1 km and 50.1 km from it respectively. Besides this, Trivandrum International Airport is the closest airport to the attraction lying at a distance of 52 km. You can easily get a cab from the airport and train station. Furthermore, the attraction is well connected by road throughout Kerala, especially major cities. It lies approximately 200 meters from the Trivandrum – Kochi highway. If you are wondering how to reach Jatayu Earth’s Centre from Trivandrum, hiring a private cab or taxi is the best option.
Upon showing your tickets, you will get a wristband to access Jatayu Earth’s Centre. From this point, you there are three ways to reach the rock:
Cable Car Ride
Image Courtesy: Jatayu Earth’s Center
Opting for a cable car ride is a great option to save time and evade fatigue. Post a quick security check, a cable car will take you to the hilltop within minutes. The Swiss-made cable cars have been installed while paying heed to all the safety standards. In order to avoid the queue, plan a visit on a weekday or during the early hours.
6 Amazing Homestays In Kollam For A Heavenly Stay
Walkway
Image Courtesy: Jatayu Earth’s Center
Visitors who wish to indulge in some adventure can opt for a walkway. Climb 826 steps to reach the gigantic sculpture while admiring the natural surroundings. The walkway is made with nearly 60,000 that are laid perfectly to make your short journey hassle-free.
Helicopter Ride
Heli-taxi ride is another option if you want to ditch the walkway or wish to indulge in an exceptional experience. While availing of the heli taxi services, you can witness the glory of the sculpture and its spectacular surroundings with an aerial view.
9 Unique Resorts In Kollam That Will Make Your Stay A Beautiful Experience
Best Time To Visit Jatayu Earth’s Centre
Winter (November to February)
The months between November and February are ideal to plan a visit to Jatayu Earth’s Centre. During these months the temperature ranges between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius and the weather remains quite pleasant with a cool breeze. The delightful weather will make your sightseeing and outdoor activities all the more enjoyable.
Monsoon (June to September)
Kollam experiences a tropical monsoon climate and the months between June to September receive a good amount of rainfall. The temperature oscillates between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius with delightful weather. A trip during the drizzle will enhance your experience. Hence, if you like rains, plan a visit between these months. Make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out.
Summer (March to May)
Summers in Kollam from March to May experience scorching heat and humidity. The weather during these months hovers around 34 degrees Celsius. The weather may hamper your experience if you wish to opt for the walkway to indulge in outdoor activities. To avoid the sweltering heat, you can plan a visit during the early mornings or evening hours if you wish to take a tour of the sculpture only.
13 Spectacular Hill Stations Near Kollam That You Cannot Miss Out In 2023
Jatayu Earth Centre: Entry Fee, Booking, And Timings
Currently, tickets are available only at the counter inside Jatayu Earth’s Centre. The booking counters are positioned at the reception from where you can buy entry tickets and also for activities. Drinking water kiosks and restrooms are also available for visitors’ convenience. Jatayu Earth’s Centre entry fee is INR 400 per person that is exclusive of taxes. The ticket price for adventurous activities vary depending upon the number of activities. Notably, there are no separate charges for carrying cameras/DSLR. However, carrying a drone is strictly prohibited.
Jatayu Earth’s Centre’s opening time is 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. from Monday to Friday and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
57 Best Places To Visit In Kerala For A Vacation To Remember In 2023!
Tips
Image Credit: Vis M for Wikimedia Commons
- Ensure to take both the doses of vaccine 14 days prior to the scheduled visit or carry a negative RT PCR test certificate at least within 72 hours of the visit
- Check the weather forecast before planning a visit as cable car rides are put to halt due to unfavorable weather conditions
- If available, buy tickets online to avoid any last-minute hassle
- Wear sturdy shoes with firm grip
- Visit during the early hours of opening to avoid crowd
- Carry essentials like hand sanitizer, masks, caps, sunscreen lotion
- Avoid wearing jewelry as you may lose it during the activities
- Strictly follow the instructions given by marshal/guides
- Do not carry outside food as it is now allowed at the centre
- Maintain social distance whenever possible and always wear a mask
Already intrigued by the Grandeur of Jatayu Earth’s Centre? We bet you are! From the best of nature to numerous adventure opportunities, this spot will never give you a dull moment. So, when you plan a Kerala trip next time, spare a day for this architectural marvel and indulge in some fun-filled moments with your loved ones.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Jatayu Earth’s Center
Frequently Asked Questions About Jatayu Earth’s Centre
What is Jatayu Earth's Centre famous for?
Jatayu Earth's Centre boasts the world's largest bird sculpture, namely Jatayu. The iconic structure sculpted by Mr Rajiv Anchal measures 200 feet long, 150 feet wide, and 70 feet high. Besides this, the centre offers an array of activities like rappelling, paintball, free climbing, shooting, and more.
What is Jatayu Earth's Centre ticket price?
The entry fee for Jatayu Earth's Centre is INR 400 which is inclusive of the admission and the cable car ride. Visitors who wish to opt for the walkway option would also need to pay the same price.
How can I reach from Varkala to Jatayu Earth's Centre?
Jatayu Earth’s Centre is around 28.5 km from Varaka and you can complete the journey within 45 minutes via hadayamangalam Pallikkal Road.
Which is the nearest airport and train station to Jatayu Earth's Centre?
The nearest railway stations to Jatayu Earth's Centre are Kollam Junction and Thiruvananthapuram Central which are around 36.1 km and 50.1 km from it respectively. Besides this, Trivandrum International Airport is the closest airport to the attraction lying at a distance of 52 km.
Can I carry a DSLR/camera inside Jatayu Earth's Centre?
Yes, visitors are allowed to carry DSLR/camera inside Jatayu Earth's Centre without paying extra for it.
People Also Read:
Places To Visit In Munnar Places To Visit In Thekkady Places To Visit In Wayanad
Completely smitten by creativity & innovation, I am a person who likes to wallow in various fields. After dipping in fashion & jewelry designing, here I am aiming to mark my field in content writing as well.
