Gopalakrishnan M

<img src="https://s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/app-data-prod-hobbycue.com/image-1760703583924.jpeg" alt="Uploaded Image">Jatayu Earth Centre<a href="https://jatayuearthscenter.in/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://jatayuearthscenter.in/</a>Jatayu Earth Centre is a unique tourism destination in Kerala that blends mythology, art, adventure, and eco-consciousness, featuring the world's largest bird sculpture modeled after Jatayu from the Ramayana epic.[1][2][3] ### History and Mythological Significance Jatayu Earth Centre is inspired by the legend of Jatayu, the divine bird from the Ramayana, who heroically attempted to rescue Sita from Ravana. According to local lore, the monumental sculpture stands at Chadayamangalam, Kollam district, where Jatayu is believed to have fallen after his battle with Ravana. The park opened to visitors in August 2018 and represents both Kerala’s first public-private tourism initiative under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model and a tribute to cultural heritage.[4][5][6][7][8] ### Location and Accessibility Jatayu Earth Centre is located at Jatayu Junction, Chadayamangalam town in Kollam district, Kerala, about 38 km (24 miles) from Kollam city and 46 km (29 miles) from Thiruvananthapuram. The destination is spread across 65 acres atop rocky hills, 350 meters above sea level. Visitors can reach the summit via cable car, walkways, or a scenic staircase. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (approximately 50 km away), and nearby railway stations include Kollam Junction and Thiruvananthapuram Central.[3][9][1] ### What to Expect: Attractions and Activities - The centrepiece is a colossal sculpture of Jatayu—200 feet long, 150 feet wide, and 70 feet high—set on Jatayupara rock. This functional sculpture is the world’s largest of its kind and contains an audio-visual museum, a mini-theatre, and a Rama Temple inside.[2][10][1][3] - Four themed hills comprise the destination: - **Jatayu Rock Hill:** Marvel at the sculpture, explore the museum, and enjoy panoramic views. The hill hosts a rainwater reservoir and spaces for cultural learning.[7][3] - **Adventure Rock Hill:** Offers varied adventure activities like ziplining, rappelling, paintball, rifle shooting, archery, and trekking through forests.[11][12][3] - **Elephant Rock Hill:** Features sky cycling, campfire zones, and forestation activities, with a zip-line adventure.[3] - **Kitchen Rock Hill:** Focuses on wellness, including Siddha cave rejuvenation, herbal gardens, and accommodation facilities for longer stays.[3] - The park prides itself on eco-friendly initiatives such as rainwater harvesting, solar power, and organic farming, with fresh products available for purchase by visitors.[5][13] - Facilities include cable car rides, free water supply, wheelchair access, lavatories, and food outlets, making the destination family-friendly and inclusive.[11][3] - Scenic beauty, mythological storytelling via virtual reality, and cultural programs enrich the experience.[9][14][11] Jatayu Earth Centre is recommended for anyone interested in mythology, adventure sports, sustainable tourism, and scenic South Indian landscapes.[15][3]There are two ways of reaching the top.<ol><li>walkway - climb 896 steps - drinking water provided enroute . Am 71 and took the steps well applauded by co tourists</li><li>Cable car - Too crowded. Wait time too long.</li></ol> 4 cars with seat capacity of 8 eachWe reached Top earlier and our team who took the cable car reached after 90 minutes.Avoid plastics and food items.Refreshments available at the top.Good place to test your adventure skills.