Things to Know about Jatayu Nature Park, Kerala

Where Is It Located?

Jatayu Earth’s Center is situated at Jatayupara, near Chadayamangalam town in Kollam district, Kerala. The nearest international airport, Trivandrum, is just 50 km away from the center.

Specialty

True to its name, Jatayu Earth’s Center features the statue of Jatayu, set on a massive rock called Jatayupara. Measuring 200 feet long, 150 feet wide, and 70 feet high, it holds the title of the largest bird sculpture in the world and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Eco-Friendly Tourism:

Jatayu Earth’s Center is an eco-friendly tourist spot that focuses on sustainability. Spanning 65 acres of beautiful hills and lush greenery, the area is carefully managed to maintain its natural charm.

One major challenge was ensuring a steady water supply. To address this, a check dam was built between two rock valleys, storing up to 20 lakh liters of water. Rainwater is also collected and stored, which not only conserves water but helps the plants thrive. To tackle the electricity issue, solar power was introduced.

The center promotes organic farming through a dedicated agricultural society. Visitors can buy fresh produce from stalls set up at the center, with all products coming directly from the farm. Overall, Jatayu Earth’s Center is a well-thought-out project that preserves the environment while offering a great experience.

Jatayu Earth Centre: Entry Fees, Booking Information, and Timings

Currently, tickets for Jatayu Earth’s Centre are only available at the on-site counter. You can purchase entry tickets and sign up for activities at the reception. Drinking water kiosks and restrooms are also provided for visitors’ convenience. The entry fee is INR 400 per person, excluding taxes. The cost of adventurous activities varies based on the number of activities you choose. There are no extra charges for bringing cameras or DSLRs, but drones are not allowed.

The Centre is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Friday and from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekends.

The Jatayu Earth Center

The main attraction at the Jatayu Earth Center is the enormous sculpture of Jatayu. This statue is one of the largest bird sculptures in the world. It’s a massive, 200-foot-long, and 66-foot-wide representation of the legendary eagle, and it provides stunning views of the surrounding area.

The park around the sculpture has a lot to offer:

• Adventure Activities: You can enjoy zip-lining, rock climbing, and rappelling amid the beautiful scenery.
• Nature Trails: There are peaceful walking trails through the lush forest, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
• Cultural Exhibits: Learn more about Jatayu’s story and the Ramayana through various exhibits.
• Jatayu Museum: The museum provides detailed information about Jatayu and his heroic fight to save Sita.

Nearby Attractions

While Jatayu is a major highlight, there are several other places nearby worth visiting:

• Punalur (35 km away): Known for its charming landscapes and the historic Punalur Suspension Bridge.
• Kumarakom (60 km away): Famous for its serene backwaters and houseboat rides.
• Alleppey (75 km away): Offers beautiful backwater cruises and traditional village experiences.
• Varkala (40 km away): Known for its stunning cliffs and Varkala Beach, perfect for relaxing by the sea.
• Ponmudi (60 km away): A hill station with a cool climate, ideal for trekking and enjoying nature.

How to Get There

• By Road: You can reach Jatayu from nearby cities like Coimbatore, Kochi, and Madurai by bus. The bus stand is just 2 km from the site. You can also hire a cab or drive from nearby towns like Kovalam and Kanyakumari.
• By Rail: Trivandrum, the nearest major city, has a well-connected railway station about 2 km from Jatayu.
• By Air: The Trivandrum International Airport is about 4 km away and connects to major cities in India and international destinations.

Jatayu Nature Park Entry Charges & Fee

Jatayu Sculpture & Cable Car

• Adult: Rs. 400
• Senior Citizen: Rs. 360

Jataya Nature Park Paintball fee:

Paintball needs a minimum of 8 people. Total charges are Rs. 9440 including GST

Jataya Nature Park Adventure Games fee

Jatayu Nature Park adventure games fee is Rs. 590 per person.

The best time to visit :

Winter (November to February)
The best time to visit Jatayu Earth’s Centre is from November to February. During these months, temperatures range between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the weather is pleasantly cool with gentle breezes. This makes it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities.

Monsoon (June to September)
Kollam experiences a tropical monsoon from June to September, with frequent rainfall and temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. If you enjoy the rain, visiting during this period can be a delightful experience. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip.

Summer (March to May)
From March to May, summers in Kollam bring intense heat and humidity, with temperatures reaching around 34 degrees Celsius. This can make outdoor activities less comfortable. If you prefer to visit during this time, try to go in the early morning or evening to avoid the peak heat, especially if you’re interested in viewing the sculpture.

Essential Tips for a Perfect Visit to Jatayu Earth’s Centre

Things to Do:

• Explore the Jatayu Sculpture.
• Ride the cable car to the hilltop where the Jatayu Sculpture is located.
• Enjoy thrilling activities like rock climbing and rappelling at Jatayu Earth’s Center.
• Take a scenic walk and admire the natural beauty around the center.
• Discover traditional Ayurvedic practices at the Ayurvedic Village.
• Experience a helicopter ride for a unique aerial view of the area.
• Check out cultural events at the center, such as traditional dances, music performances, or other activities.
• Capture stunning photos of the landscape and the unique Jatayu Sculpture.
• Visit the Ramayana Theme Park.
• Bring cash: Some say the center doesn’t accept online payment, so bringing cash for tickets is best.

Best Places to see in Jatayu Nature Park:

1. Jatayu Sculpture:

The Jatayu Sculpture at Jatayu Nature Park is the world’s largest bird sculpture, measuring 200 feet long, 150 feet wide, and 70 feet high. The sculpture covers an area of 15,000 square feet. According to local legends, this is where the mythical bird Jatayu fell after being struck down by Ravana. At Jatayu Nature Park, you can enjoy three main attractions:

Museum: Located inside the sculpture, the museum spans three floors. The first two floors showcase the story of the Treta Yuga, the era of the Ramayana, with interactive digital displays and physical paintings.

Theatre: Situated within the wings of the sculpture, the six-dimensional theatre brings to life the epic battle between Ravana and Jatayu with immersive projections.

Bird’s Eye View: Accessible via a staircase to the sculpture’s eye, this viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of Kerala, including the Arabian Sea, Kollam, and Varkala.

2. Jatayu Nature Park Passenger Ropeway:
The Jatayu Nature Park’s passenger ropeway stretches 500 meters and ascends 600 feet. It features special cabins imported from Switzerland, ensuring top-notch safety. The ropeway can carry up to 400 passengers per hour and includes 16 Swiss cable cars. A round-trip ride costs ₹400.

3. Walkway:

For adventure lovers who enjoy nature walks, a 1.5 km paved path is being built to lead to the Jatayu sculpture. This trail will traverse rocky terrain and scenic nature, offering visitors beautiful views of the surroundings.

4. Adventure park at Jatayu Nature Park:

The adventure park at Jatayu Nature Park covers 20 acres and features various rock formations. A trekking trail within the park takes you up to nearly 1000 feet. Besides trekking, you can enjoy exciting activities like paintball, laser tag, archery, air rifle shooting, mountain biking, rock climbing, bouldering, zip-lining, and more. All activities are guided by trained and certified staff for a safe and thrilling experience.

5. HeliTaxi, Jatayu Nature park:
The HeliTaxi at Jatayu Nature Park offers tourists a unique aerial view of the entire park. Besides seeing Jatayu Nature Park from above, the HeliTaxi also flies over nearby tourist spots and scenic areas.

6. Ayurvedic cave resorts at Jatayu Nature Park:
Jatayu Nature Park in Jatayupura offers unique stays in resorts carved out of ancient natural caves. These cave resorts provide relaxing Kerala Ayurvedic massages and serve natural organic meals. They combine modern amenities with a sacred atmosphere, extending the charm of the ancient caves.

As you prepare for your adventure at Jatayu Earth’s Center, embrace the chance to explore one of Kerala’s most awe-inspiring attractions. From the majestic Jatayu sculpture to the thrilling activities and lush surroundings, this destination offers a unique blend of mythology, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re zip-lining across the park, delving into the legend of Jatayu, or simply soaking in the stunning views, each moment promises to be memorable. Don’t forget to capture your experiences and enjoy the eco-friendly practices that make Jatayu Earth’s Center a standout destination. Plan your visit, immerse yourself in its enchanting stories, and create lasting memories in this remarkable place.