Picture a colossal bird sculpture perched atop a rocky hill, wings spread as though falling in mid-flight, yet gazing protectively across Kerala’s endless green valleys. This is what you get to see at the awe-inspiring Jatayu Earth’s Center, where mythology, artistry, and adventure tourism – all come together in one of India’s most unique travel destinations.
Whether you’re a history lover, a nature buff, or a thrill-seeker, in this detailed guide, we’ll explore various aspects ranging from facts about the destination, to insider travel tips and why you should include this fascinating destination as part of your Trivandrum & Varkala itinerary.
Key Takeaways
- This guide introduces you to Jatayu Earth’s Center, where a colossal sculpture meets a powerful story from the epic Ramayana, and why a hilltop was chosen to honour the legendary bird.
- Beyond the story, you’ll find details about the major attractions, how the entire space blends the legendary epic with modern tourism, and how it compares to a similar landmark in Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh.
- Whether you’re planning your journey from Trivandrum, Varkala, or elsewhere in India, we’ve covered the best travel routes for you.
- You also get insights about the key places nearby that’s worth exploring, and answers to the most commonly asked questions.
Table of Contents
About Jatayu Earth’s Center
Sprawling across 65 acres, Jatayu Earth’s Center is a nature park and popular tourist attraction located atop a hill in Chadayamangalam, in Kollam district, Kerala, India.
Also called Jatayu Nature Park and Jatayu Rock, it has the honour of being the world’s largest bird sculpture. It stands 70 feet tall, 200 feet long, 150 feet wide, and spreads across a floor area totalling 15,000 square feet!
Note: As you read on, the names Jatayu Earth’s Center, Jatayu Nature Park and Jatayu Rock will be used interchangeably across the article.
The nature park blends itself with natural landscapes, rock formations, and man-made artistry; along with eco-friendly structures that integrate into the granite terrain to preserve Kerala’s natural beauty.
To reach the Jatayu statue atop the hill, visitors can take either a cable car, or climb the steps along what is called the Jatayu Walkway.
A fascinating aspect of the park is its dedication to storytelling. As you walk through and look around, you feel as if you’re literally walking through one of the chapters of Ramayana that’s unfolding right in front of your eyes.
The narrative of the epic comes alive not only through sculptures and visuals, but also through the sheer scale, ambience and energy of the space.
The Sculptor
The statue of Jatayu was brought to life by the acclaimed filmmaker, sculptor and architect, Rajiv Anchal.
His vision was both artistic and ecological, as he wanted to celebrate India’s and Kerala’s rich cultural heritage without disturbing the lush green forests surrounding the hills of Chadayamangalam.
Most of all, it was his dream to immortalize the story and legend of Jatayu from the Ramayana.
As a renowned Film Director & Screen Writer, one of Rajiv’s feature films Guru, was India’s official submission for the 1997 Academy Awards, also called the Oscars.
Why “Earth’s” Center and Not “Earth” Center?
There are many who wonder why the place is called Earth‘s Center and not Earth Center? Chances are, may be you’ve asked yourself too, and it’s one of the things that anchors many to this place.
The fact that it’s called Earth’s Center (with an apostrophe) and not Earth Center, shows that this place (the center) belongs to Earth, and it is also Earth’s own tribute to an epic event that happened here, atop the hill.
Most of all, it’s a way to say that this place is about protecting not only our planet, but also the epic stories it has witnessed over thousands of years. It’s as if earth is paying its own tribute to Jatayu, and nature is honouring his sacrifice.
The History & Legend of Jatayu
The heart and soul of the destination lies in the story of the mighty bird Jatayu in one of the greatest epics of India, the Ramayana, and the story goes like this:
Jatayu happened to witness the demon king Ravana going towards Lanka (present day Sri Lanka) after abducting Maa Sita, wife of Lord Rama.
In an act of supreme courage, Jatayu attacked Ravana’s chariot in an attempt to rescue her.
Despite being mortally wounded after a valiant fight, Jatayu held on to his life, just long enough to inform Rama as he came searching for Sita. This heroic sacrifice is what has enshrined his place in India’s rich spiritual memory.
While Jatayu Rock may be known more as a popular tourist attraction, the devotees of Lord Rama attach a lot of significance and divinity to this place, as it is believed this is also the place where Jatayu’s last rites were performed my Lord Rama himself.
Lord Ram’s Foot-Print
There’s a mark of foot-print embedded on the rock right next to the Jatayu’s sculpture, said to be that of Lord Rama.
What Does The Statue Stand For?
Inspired by Jatayu’s gallantry effort to defend Sita, the statue stands and serves as an emblem for women’s safety and honour.
Facts About Jatayu Earth’s Center
Jatayu Nature Park is one among the significant global landmarks depicting art, culture, and a record-breaking feat of engineering.
While the legend of Jatayu has existed for thousands of years, the seeds for the idea of building a monument were sown only towards the end of the 1990s.
Subsequently, the project was announced officially in the year 2005, and the execution of the first phase of the project began in 2009.
After more than a decade of proposals, approvals, design and execution, especially the meticulous sculpting of the Jatayu, the nature park finally opened for the public on 17-Aug-2018.
Here’s a snapshot of some facts:
| Fact About Jatayu Earth’s Center | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chadayamangalam |
| District | Kollam |
| State | Kerala, India. |
| Key Highlight | World’s Largest Bird Sculpture |
| Sculptor / Designer | Ravi Anchal |
| Dimensions of the Bird Sculpture | 70 ft. High (21 m), 200 ft. Long (61 m), 150 ft. Wide (46 m), Spread across 15,000 sq. ft. (1,400 m2) |
| Altitude Above Mean Sea Level | 1200 ft. (350 m) |
| Total Area of the Nature Park | 65 Acres (26.30 Hectares | 3.15 Lakh Sq. Yards | 1180 Grounds) |
| No. of Steps to Reach the Hill-Top Jatayu Sculpture | 826 steps along the Jatayu Walkway |
| Project Timeline | Official launch of the project in 2011. Opened for the general public in 2018. |
| Purpose of Creation | To honour the sacrifice of Jatayu in the great Indian epic Ramayana, and to promote culture and heritage |
| Contemporary Significance | Dedicated to ‘Women’s Safety and Honour’, in commemoration of the tremendous effort Jatayu made to protect the honour of Goddess Sita. |
| Unique Feature | The sculpture is a functional building housing a museum and viewing gallery across multiple floors inside |
| Materials Used for Construction & Design | Reinforced concrete over a steel frame with a weatherproof finish |
| Facilities | Free water (plastic water bottles strictly not allowed), wheel chair access, rest rooms for the differently-abled, parking area, foot courts, viewing decks for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and more. |
Chadayamangalam Jatayu & Lepakshi Jatayu
Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh, located just 120 kms north of Bengaluru (475 kms south of Hyderabad, 370 kms west-north-west of Chennai) is also attributed as the place where Jatayu fell after being fatally wounded by Ravana.
According to the legend, after finding Jatayu, Rama is said to have commanded the bird to rise, saying “Le Pakshi”, which means: “Get up, Bird” in Telugu, hence the name for the village.
Lepakshi also has a rock statue of Jatayu, which is located on the hill right next to the Sri Veerabadhra Swamy Temple.
There is a large footprint within the temple premises, which is believed to be either that of Goddess Sita, wife of Lord Rama, or Lord Hanuman, the greatest devotee and a loyal & powerful ally of Lord Rama.
While some legends equally associate Jatayu’s fall to Lepakshi, the relatively popular one, especially from the perspective of the last rites of Jatayu – and a tourist attraction, is said to be this the hill-top site at Chadayamangalam.
Over many decades, if not centuries, there have been many discussions and debates whether Jatayu fell at Lepakshi or Chandayamangalam. However, what’s important to note, is that both places are dedicated in honour and celebration of Jatayu’s courage and sacrifice!
Lepakshi Jatayu Vs Jatayu Earth’s Center
| Features | Jatayu Earth’s Centre, Kerala, India | Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh, India |
|---|---|---|
| Mythological Significance | Believed to be the place where Lord Rama performed the last rites of Jatayu, after he succumbed to injuries post his valiant fight with Ravana | Believed to be the place where Jatayu fell after the fight and died |
| Main Attraction | – World’s largest bird sculpture – Footprint, believed to be of Lord Rama | – Rock Sculpture of Jatayu on a hill next to Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple – Footprint within the temple, believed to be of Maa Sita or Lord Hanuman (many believe it is Lord Hanuman’s) |
| Tourism Theme | Mythology, Art & Architecture, Adventure and Eco-Tourism | Spiritual and Architectural |
| Activities | Cable Car Ride, Museum, Zipline, Paint Ball, 6-D Theatre, Trekking, etc. | Temple Visit and Sculpture Photography |
| Size of Bird Sculpture | World’s Largest: 70 ft. Tall (21 m), 200 ft. Long, & 150 ft. Wide (46 m), and spread across 15,000 sq. ft. | Relatively much smaller statue, yet impressive in terms of detailing and craft |
How To Reach Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh
Lepakshi is just 125 kms north of the city of Bengaluru, Karanataka; and takes about 2.5 hours to reach by cab.
Timings, Entry Fee & Adventure Activities Ticket Price
Daily Timings
The center is open between 10:00 am – 5:30 pm every day, including all weekends.
The centre may be closed on some public holidays of Kerala, or during important maintenance work.
Entry Fee
Jatayu Earth’s Center and Nature Park’s entry fee ticket fee price starts around ₹400, which typically includes a round-trip on the cable car and access to the viewing decks around the sculpture.
Adventure seekers can enjoy additional activities like paintball, ziplining, etc. for an additional ticket fee, for which the price can range anywhere from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 depending on the activities.
Note: According to Jatayu Earth’s Center’s website, as of now, tickets for entry and activities are currently not sold online. They’re are available only at the counter inside the center.
How Much Time Required?
It depends. If you only want to just go around the sculpture, click a few pictures, and just wark around the center, about an hour will do.
But if you want to explore the entire centre – and engage in activities & adventure, you will have so much fun that even 2 to 2.5 hours may feel like too short a time.
Given that you’d invariably spend not less than 2 hours just to travel to this destination and back, allocating not less than 2 to 2.5 hours for your rendezvous with Jatayu.
Best Time To Visit
Mid-October to mid-March will be the perfect time to visit the center, as April and May can not only be hot but also humid.
June to August/September is the monsoon season, and September and October can be pretty warm but not as hot as summer.
During the day, the best time to visit will be as soon as the center is open, or any time from 3 pm.
Things To Do at Jatayu Earth’s Center
There are more than a dozen things you can do. Literally! And here’s what you must begin with:
Digital Museum & Storytelling
Inside the mammoth sculpture lies a small digital theatre, where the story of Jatayu Earth’s Center comes alive through high-definition visuals and surround sound. It’s a must-visit for understanding the story and its meaning at a deeper level, along with its cultural resonance.
Just Marvel at the Statue
The number one reason why you should visit Jatayu Rock, by far, is to marvel at the colossal sculpture of the bird. Be it the texture of each feather, the tension in the wings, the beak, or the claws, you will be amazed by the intricate detailing across the magnificent creation. The fierce yet noble gaze of the Jatayu will also make you feel as though he’ll take flight once again at any moment!
If you have a fascination for photography, don’t be surprised if you end up spending 30-45 minutes just to capture the mighty bird at different angles.
Enjoy Fun Activities & Experience Adventure
If you’re an adventure seeker, you can look forward to a lot of things here:
- Zipline: Glide over scenic valleys on one of Southern India’s longest ziplines.
- Rock Climbing & Rappelling: Climb along the rugged cliff faces.
- Cable Car: Take a ride on the cable car that provides breathtaking aerial views of the landscape.
- Trekking: For those who prefer the old-fashioned way, reaching Jatayu’s statue atop the hill by taking the 826 steps along the Jatayu Walkway is an adventure in itself.
- Relaxing & Dining: Want to recharge during or post your exploration? The center offers a cafeteria and small eateries serving local Kerala cuisine.
Bottomline: There’s absolutely no shortage of fun things to do in Jatayu Earth’s Center, which means you can enjoy spending a lot of time with your family and friends.
| Activity | Suitable For | Adventure Level | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Going around and viewing the sculpture of Jatayu | Everyone | N.A. | 30 – 45 Mins |
| 6D Theatre and Museum | Everyone, especially Families and Kids | N.A. | 30 Mins |
| Cable Car Ride | All Age Groups | Low | 5 – 10 Mins |
| Trekking along Jatayu Walkway | Youngsters & Fit Adults | Moderate | 30 – 45 Mins |
| Paintball | Youngsters & Groups | Moderate | 30 – 60 Mins |
| Ziplining | Adventure Seekers (has age limits) | High | 30 Mins or more |
| Rock Climbing & Rappelling | Adventure Seekers (has age limits) | High | 30 Mins or more |
| Dining & Relaxing | Everyone | N.A. | 20 – 30 mins |
Talking about 6-D theatre and museum, are you one among those hundreds of millions of people looking forward to India’s most expensive feature film – ever made, so-much-so that it’s very likely to make Marvel and DC sit up and take notice?! Here’s an Epic sneak-peak!
How To Reach?
By Road: 1.5 hours’ drive from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala.
By Rail: Reach the closest railway station, Varkala Sivagiri. Alternatively, reach Kollam Junction or Trivandrum Central railway station, from where you can take a cab or a direct bus.
By Air: Fly into Trivandrum, the closest International Airport, and hire a cab to reach directly. The second closest alternative is Kochi.
Thanks to excellent connectivity infrastructure, Jatayu Earth’s Center is easily accessible by any mode of transport to reach comfortably.
| Mode | From | Distance | Travel Time (Approx.) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Road | Trivandrum | 54 Kms | 1.5 Hours | Smooth highways. Taxis and buses also available. |
| Rail | Nearest Station: Varkala Sivagiri Nearest Major Junction: Kollam Nearest Central: Trivandrum | 26 Kms 37 Kms 54 Kms | 1 Hour 1 Hour 15 mins 1.5 Hours | Buses and taxis also available. |
| Air | Nearest Airport: Trivandrum Alternative: Kochi | 52 Kms 190 Kms | 1 Hour 20 Mins 4.5 to 5 Hours | Cabs easily available. Longer drive but well connected. |
Jatayu Nature Park Reviews
There are more than 32,000 reviews for Jatayu Earth’s Center on Google, with an overall rating of 4.4 / 5 Stars. To say that the rating is impressive would be an understatement – given the number of people who’ve given the star rating and the actual rating which is just shy of 4.5 Stars.
- Many praise the sculpture’s sheer scale and craftsmanship, calling it an engineering wonder.
- The cable car has been cited by many as a highlight, and that it offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscape.
- As regards entry fee, some visitors, especially those with families, say they find it slightly higher than they.
- Those who visited during peak summer (April & May) have expressed that they felt a bit exhausted after the visit due to hot and humid weather. However, it is noteworthy that one of the key facilities at the center, is the supply of free water.
- Adventure enthusiasts loved the zipline and rock-climbing activities, and added that weekends can have long queues across all activities.
Note: According to Jatayu Earth’s Center’s website, as of now, tickets for entry and activities are currently not sold online. They’re are available only at the counter inside the center.
Overall, visitors leave impressed, often sharing how they felt deeply connected to the mythical heroism of Jatayu – all while enjoying modern facilities and a range of adventure activities to choose from.
Places Near Jatayu Earth’s Center
Your journey, if you choose, doesn’t have to end after you admire and explore the magnificent Jatayu. If you have another day or two, there are some wonderful places to visit near Jatayu Rock, such that you can easily build a travel circuit around your visit.
If there’s one place you just can’t afford to miss – for reasons beyond the fact that this place is just 28 kms away – it is Varkala!
| Places To Visit | Distance | Travel Time (Approx.) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Varkala Cliff & Beach | 28 Kms | 1 Hour | Stunning seaside cliffs, beach shacks, Janardanaswamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt, and more. |
| Paalaruvi Waterfalls | 57 Kms | 1.5 Hours | Milky-white falls nestled in lush-green forests. A must for nature lovers. |
| Thenmala Eco-Adventure Park | 42 Kms | 1 Hour | Adventure zone, Elevated Walkway, Boating, Butterfly Safari, Children’s Park, and more. |
| Kollam | 37 Kms | 1 Hour 15 Mins | Colonial Charm, Local Markets, Serene Backwater Cruises, and more. |
| Trivandrum | 54 Kms | 1 Hour 30 Mins | Capital city with Heritage Temples, Museums and Crescent-shaped Beaches |
Is Jatayu Nature Park Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, especially because it is one among the Top 10 Places To Visit in Varkala! Moreover, there are very few places in India that combine art – especially of a colossal kind, mythology, adventure sports, and sustainable tourism, all coming together to give this amazing tourist attraction.
The sheer magnitude of the sculpture of Jatayu will leave you absolutely awestruck, while the digital storytelling will make you feel an ancient legend being brought to life – right in front of your eyes.
Beyond being a spectacular photo-op, the park delivers an unforgettable experience that will make you feel connected to India’s cultural identity through the legendary epic, Ramayana.
Whether you’re seeking panoramic views, thrilling activities, or a deeper connection to India’s ancient stories, this center promises a memorable adventure. Overall, it’s a journey into India’s cultural and spiritual fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Jatayu Earth’s Center?
The center commemorates Jatayu, the bird who valiantly fought Ravana to save Goddess Sita in the great Indian epic Ramayana. The statue of Jatayu is the world’s largest bird sculpture!
Can I book tickets for entry and activity online?
No. According to the center’s website, tickets can’t be booked online. They’re available only at the ticket counter inside the center.
What are the other names for Jatayu Earth’s Center?
The two other names for Jatayu Earth’s Center are: Jatayu Nature Park and Jatayu Rock.
What are the visiting hours?
Visiting hours is from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm across all days of the week. The center may be closed on public holidays or during important maintenance work.
What is the entry fee?
The entry fee, including cable car ride, is around ₹400–₹500 per person. Additional charges apply for adventure activities like zipline, trekking, etc.
What are the facilities available at Jatayu Earth’s Center?
Free water (water bottles strictly not allowed), wheel chair access, rest rooms – also for the differently-abled, parking, and food courts are some of the facilities available.
What are the key attractions at Jatayu Rock?
The key attractions include the cable-car ride and walkway to reach the giant Jatayu sculpture, digital museum, 6D theatre, adventure activities, and more.
How much time is required to fully experience Jatayu Nature Park?
To experience the nature park fully, it takes 2 to 4 hours – depending on how many adventure activities you’ll be engaging in.
How to reach Jatayu Rock?
You can reach by getting off at Varkala or Kollam if you’re arriving by train, Trivandrum by air, and take a cab/bus to Chadyamangalam. By road, you can reach via Thiruvalla or Pathanamthitta.
How many steps do I need to climb to reach Jatayu Rock?
You need to climb 826 steps, which is a trekking experience by itself.
Are there any age restrictions for entry?
There are no age restrictions to visit the center. Age restrictions apply only if you want to engage in adventure activities (for a fee).
Is there any dress code?
No. There’s no dress code. However, modest and comfortable cotton clothing is recommended — especially if you plan to trek or engage in adventure activities.
Is the nature park suitable for elderly visitors and young children?
Yes, the cable car makes it suitable for all age groups. The center is also wheel-chair accessible, making it easy for anyone across any age group to visit.
Is food available on-site?
Yes. There’s a food court along with snack outlets.
Are restroom facilities available?
Yes. Adequate restroom facilities available.
Can differently-abled individuals visit Jatayu Rock?
Yes. The entire park is designed in a friendly manner for the differently-abled, including restrooms.
Can I combine my visit to Jatayu Rock with other nearby attractions?
Definitely. You can combine your visit to Jatayu Rock with Varkala Beach, as it’s just 26 kms away. It’s ideal for a 2N & 3-Days’ Varkala Tour.
Is Jatayu Earth’s Center right in the center of the earth?
Thoughtful question there. The answer is: No. Jatayu Nature Park is not at the center of earth. Please refer the first point in the table of contents at the beginning of this article.