Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit a place where mythology meets reality? Where you can witness the world’s largest functional bird sculpture, explore a nature park full of adventure activities, and learn about the rich culture and history of Kerala? If yes, then you should definitely check out Jatayu Earth’s Centre, a one-of-a-kind tourist attraction in Kerala that will leave you spellbound.
Jatayu Earth’s Centre is a unique destination that celebrates the legend of Jatayu, the noble bird from the Indian epic Ramayana. Located in Chadayamangalam village in Kollam district of Kerala, Jatayu Earth’s Centre is spread over 65 acres of land and offers a range of attractions and facilities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for a thrilling adventure, a relaxing retreat, or a cultural immersion, Jatayu Earth’s Centre has something for everyone.
Jatayu: The Legendary Bird of Ramayana
Jatayu is a character from the ancient Indian epic Ramayana, which narrates the story of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana. Jatayu was a vulture-like bird who was the son of Aruna, the charioteer of the sun god Surya. Jatayu was a loyal friend and devotee of Lord Rama, and he played a crucial role in his life.
According to the Ramayana, when Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana were living in exile in the forest, the demon king Ravana kidnapped Sita and flew away in his flying chariot. Jatayu saw this and tried to stop Ravana by fighting him in the air. Jatayu fought valiantly but was severely wounded by Ravana’s sword. He fell to the ground and waited for Rama to come. When Rama arrived, Jatayu told him about Sita’s abduction and Ravana’s direction. Rama was touched by Jatayu’s sacrifice and performed his last rites with respect and gratitude.
Jatayu Earth’s Centre is built on the spot where Jatayu fell and died. It is a tribute to his courage, loyalty, and devotion. It also symbolizes the protection of women and nature, as Jatayu tried to save Sita and the forest from Ravana.
Jatayu Bird Sculpture: The World’s Largest Functional Bird Sculpture
The main attraction of Jatayu Earth’s Centre is the majestic Jatayu bird sculpture, which is the world’s largest functional bird sculpture. The sculpture measures 200 feet in length, 150 feet in breadth, 70 feet in height, and has an area of 15,000 square feet. It is made of stainless steel and concrete and can accommodate up to 100 people at a time.
The sculpture is not just a visual marvel but also a functional one. It houses a museum and a 6D theatre inside its body. The museum showcases the history and culture of Kerala through audio-visual exhibits and displays. The 6D theatre offers an immersive experience of the Ramayana story with special effects and motion seats.
The sculpture is also designed with eco-friendly features such as rainwater harvesting, solar power generation, and organic farming. The sculpture is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain that create a natural ambiance.
Jatayu Nature Park: A Paradise for Adventure Lovers
If you are an adventure lover, you will love Jatayu Nature Park, which offers a variety of activities and facilities for thrill-seekers. You can choose from options such as cable car ride, hele-taxi ride, trekking, camping, paintball, archery, rock climbing, rappelling, zip line, bouldering, etc. You can also enjoy scenic views of the landscape from different vantage points.
The cable car ride is a must-try as it takes you from the base station to the top of the hill where the Jatayu sculpture is located. It is India’s first hilltop cable car ride and it covers a distance of 500 meters with an altitude gain of 260 meters. The cable car can carry 16 passengers at a time and it offers panoramic views of the valley below.
The hele-taxi ride is another unique attraction that allows you to fly over the Jatayu sculpture and the nature park in a helicopter. It is India’s first dedicated tourism hele-taxi service and it can accommodate up to six passengers at a time. The hele-taxi ride gives you an aerial perspective of the beauty and grandeur of Jatayu Earth’s Centre.
The trekking and camping options are ideal for nature lovers who want to explore the flora and fauna of the region. You can choose from different trails and campsites according to your preference and difficulty level. You can also enjoy the night sky and the sounds of nature at the campfire.
Jatayu Cultural Centre:
A Hub for Art, Culture, and Education If you are interested in art, culture, and education, you will appreciate Jatayu Cultural Centre, which showcases the rich heritage and diversity of Kerala and India. You can choose from options such as live kitchen, Ayurveda, pottery, handicrafts, painting, etc. You can also participate in workshops and events that are organized regularly at the centre.
The live kitchen is a unique attraction that allows you to taste the authentic cuisine of Kerala prepared by local chefs. You can also learn about the ingredients, recipes, and techniques of Kerala cooking. The live kitchen can accommodate up to 200 guests at a time and it offers a variety of dishes from different regions of Kerala.
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The Ayurveda centre is another attraction that offers holistic healing and wellness services based on the ancient Indian system of medicine. You can choose from different treatments and therapies such as massage, yoga, meditation, etc. You can also consult with qualified doctors and experts who can guide you on your health and lifestyle.
How To Reach Jatayu Earth’s Centre
By Air:
The nearest airport to Jatayu Earth’s Centre is the Trivandrum International Airport, which is about 52 km away. You can take a flight from any major city in India or abroad to Trivandrum and then hire a taxi or an auto to the centre. The taxi fare may vary from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 depending on the time and traffic.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Jatayu Earth’s Centre is the Kollam Junction railway station, which is about 36 km away. You can take a train from any major city in India to Kollam and then hire a taxi or an auto to the centre. The taxi fare may vary from Rs. 500 to Rs. 800 depending on the time and traffic.
By Road:
Jatayu Earth’s Centre is well-connected by road and can be easily reached by car, bus, or bike. The centre is located on the MC Road (Main Central Road) that connects Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam. You can follow the signboards and directions to reach the centre. The road condition is good and the journey is scenic.
Some of the nearby attractions to Jatayu Earth’s Centre are:
Jatayuppara Sree Kodanda Rama Temple:
This is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, who are believed to have visited this place during their exile. The temple is located near the Jatayu sculpture and offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The temple also has a statue of Jatayu, which is worshipped by the devotees.
Kilimanoor Palace:
This is the ancestral home of the famous painter Raja Ravi Varma, who is known for his realistic and beautiful paintings of Indian gods and goddesses. The palace is a museum that displays some of his original paintings, sketches, and personal belongings. The palace also has a gallery that showcases the works of other artists from his family and school.
Minerva Cinemaz:
This is a multiplex cinema that offers a variety of entertainment options for movie lovers. It has four screens that show the latest movies in different languages and genres. It also has a food court that serves delicious snacks and beverages. It is a popular hangout place for locals and tourists alike.
These are some of the nearby attractions to Jatayu Earth’s Centre that you can visit and enjoy. They are all within a short distance from the center and can be easily reached by car or public transport. They offer a mix of culture, history, and entertainment that will make your trip more memorable and fun.
Best Time To Visit Jatayu Earth Centre
The best time to visit Jatayu Earth's Centre is during the winter season between September to March when the temperature remains pleasant with less humidity and all the activities and attractions offered in the park may be enjoyed comfortably.
The park is open all year round, but it is advisable to avoid the summer season between April to June when the weather becomes too hot and humid.
The park is also crowded during weekends and holidays, so it is better to plan your visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid long queues and rush.
Quick Details about Jatayu Earth’s Centre
Here are some essential information about Jatayu Earth’s Centre that you should know before planning your visit:
Visiting hours: 10 am to 6 pm (Monday to Friday), 10 am to 7 pm (Saturday and Sunday)
Entry fees: Rs. 400 for adults, Rs. 300 for children (below 12 years), Rs. 300 for senior citizens (above 60 years)
Cable car fees: Rs. 400 per person (round trip)
Hele-taxi fees: Rs. 2500 per person (minimum 4 persons)
Contact details: info@jatayunaturepark.com
Website: https://www.jatayunaturepark.com/
Jatayu Earth’s Centre is a unique and innovative tourist attraction in Kerala that offers a blend of mythology, adventure, culture, and education. It is a place where you can experience the legend of Jatayu, the world’s largest functional bird sculpture, a nature park full of adventure activities, and a cultural centre that showcases the heritage and diversity of Kerala and India. It is a place that will inspire you, entertain you, and educate you.
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If you are looking for a memorable and meaningful travel experience in Kerala, you should definitely visit Jatayu Earth’s Centre. It is a place that will make you feel proud of your culture and heritage. It is a place that will make you feel closer to nature and yourself.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Jatayu Earth’s Centre today and get ready for a mythical adventure in Kerala!
