World's Largest Bird Sculpture at Jatayu Earth's Centre
Have you ever imagined visiting a place where ancient stories come to life? Imagine seeing the world’s biggest bird sculpture, exploring a park with fun activities, and learning about Kerala’s rich culture. You can experience all of this at Jatayu Earth’s Centre Nature Park in Kerala. It’s a special place that will amaze you.
Jatayu Earth Centre stands out as a distinctive destination that honours the legendary tale of Jatayu, the revered bird from the ancient Indian epic Ramayana. Situated in the serene village of Chadayamangalam, this expansive centre spans 65 acres of picturesque land. It boasts many attractions and amenities tailored to cater to visitors of diverse ages and interests. So, whether you seek thrilling adventures, tranquil respites, or enriching cultural experiences, Jatayu, Kerala, ensures an array of offerings to suit every preference.
In the ancient Indian epic Ramayana, Jatayu is a notable character portrayed as a bird resembling a vulture. He is known as the son of Aruna. Renowned for his unwavering loyalty to Lord Rama, Jatayu plays a crucial role in the epic’s storyline.
According to the Ramayana, when Sita, Rama, and Lakshmana are in exile in the forest, the demon king Ravana kidnaps Sita, carrying her away in a flying chariot. Witnessing the abduction, Jatayu bravely confronts Ravana in mid-air in an attempt to rescue Sita. Despite his courageous efforts, Jatayu suffers severe injuries from Ravana’s sword and falls to the ground. He awaits Rama’s arrival and informs him of Sita’s kidnapping. Touched by Jatayu’s sacrifice, Rama performs his last rites with reverence.
Jatayu Earth Centre is built at the site of Jatayu’s final moments, serving as a tribute to his bravery, loyalty, and dedication. The eagle statue in Kerala is a must-visit attraction on your Kerala tour.
At the heart of Jatayu Earth Centre lies its crowning jewel, the magnificent Jatayu statue. Proudly claiming the title of the world’s largest functional bird sculpture, it’s a popular attraction in Kerala. This awe-inspiring eagle statue in Kerala spans an impressive 200 ft in length and 150 ft in breadth. It stands tall at 70 ft, with a sprawling area of 15,000 square feet. Crafted from concrete and stainless steel, this monumental masterpiece offers space for up to 100 visitors simultaneously.
The sculpture also houses a 6D theatre and a museum within its body. You can explore the museum and the theatre for an enriching experience. The museum showcases Kerala’s rich history and heritage through engaging audio-visual displays. The 6D theatre brings the epic Ramayana to life through captivating special effects and motion seats.
Moreover, the sculpture is also eco-friendly, incorporating sustainable features like solar power generation, rainwater harvesting, and organic farming. Surrounded by greenery and rugged terrain, it creates the perfect ambience for visitors.
For adventure enthusiasts, Jatayu Earth Centre is an ideal destination, boasting an array of activities and amenities. From exhilarating cable car rides and hele-taxi excursions to camping expeditions and treks, the park offers an extensive selection of experiences. Adventure enthusiasts can also partake in activities like paintball, rock climbing, archery, rappelling, bouldering, zip-lining, and more. Additionally, visitors can also enjoy the panoramic vistas of the landscape from various vantage points, adding to the adventure.
You shouldn’t miss the cable car ride! It takes you from the bottom to the top of the hill where the Jatayu sculpture stands. It’s India’s first hilltop cable car ride, covering a distance of 500 meters and going up 260 meters. The cable car fits 16 people and gives you amazing views of the valley below.
The hele-taxi ride is an extraordinary experience that you must experience at Jatayu Kerala. This ride allows you to fly over the nature park and the sculpture in a helicopter. The hele-taxi can accommodate up to six people per journey and offers you a unique and one-of-a-kind experience. You can enjoy the splendour and beauty from above, making your trip memorable.
Camping and trekking options are great for adventure enthusiasts who are looking to explore the surroundings. You can pick from various campsites and trails, depending on your difficulty level and preference.
For those who love art, culture, and education, the Jatayu Cultural Centre is a treasure trove worth exploring. Here, you can delve into the vibrant heritage and diverse traditions of Kerala and India. Explore various activities such as live kitchen demonstrations, Ayurveda sessions, pottery making, handicraft showcases, and painting exhibitions. Additionally, the centre hosts regular workshops and events where you can actively engage and immerse yourself in enriching experiences.
The live kitchen is an exceptional feature where you can savour the authentic flavours of Kerala cuisine crafted by local chefs. Here, you have the opportunity to not only indulge in delectable dishes but also gain insights into the recipes, ingredients, and culinary techniques of Kerala. With a capacity to accommodate up to 200 guests, the live kitchen presents an extensive array of dishes representing various regions of Kerala.
The Ayurveda Centre is yet another highlight, providing comprehensive healing and wellness solutions rooted in the ancient Indian medicinal tradition. Here, guests can select from a range of treatments and therapies, including yoga sessions, massages, and meditation practices. Additionally, the centre offers consultations with experienced doctors and specialists who can offer personalised guidance on health and lifestyle choices, ensuring a holistic approach to well-being.
The nearest airport is the Trivandrum International Airport, located approximately 52 km from Jatayu Earth Centre. You can catch a flight from any major city in India or abroad to Trivandrum. Upon arrival, you can opt to hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the centre. Taxi fares typically range from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500, subject to variations based on time and traffic conditions.
For those travelling by train, the nearest railway station is the Kollam Junction railway station, located approximately 36 km from Jatayu Earth Centre. You can board a train from any major city in India to Kollam and then proceed to hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the centre. Taxi fares may vary from Rs. 500 to Rs. 800, depending on factors such as time of day and traffic congestion.
Jatayu Earth Centre enjoys excellent connectivity via road and can be easily accessed by car, bus, or motorcycle. Situated along the Main Central Road that links Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam, reaching the centre is straightforward. The road conditions are favourable, offering travellers a scenic and pleasant journey.
The ideal time to explore Jatayu Earth Centre is during the winter season, spanning from September to March. During this period, the weather is mild and less humid, providing comfortable conditions to enjoy all the activities and attractions offered within the park.
While the park remains open throughout the year, it is advisable to steer clear of the summer months, particularly from April to June. During this time, temperatures soar, and humidity levels rise significantly, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.
To avoid crowds and long queues, it’s recommended to plan your visit during early mornings or on weekdays. Weekends and holidays tend to draw larger crowds, resulting in a busier atmosphere within the park.
Situated in close proximity to the Jatayu Earth Centre, the Jatayuppara Sree Kodanda Rama Temple holds great religious and historical significance. Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is believed to be the place where Jatayu, the mythical bird from the Ramayana, fell after his valiant battle against Ravana. Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate architecture and serene ambience, and participate in the rituals and prayers conducted here.
For entertainment enthusiasts, Minerva Cinemaz offers a modern cinema experience near Jatayu Earth Centre. This multiplex cinema features state-of-the-art facilities, comfortable seating, and a wide range of movies across various genres. Visitors can catch the latest blockbuster films for an enjoyable experience.
This historic residence holds significance as the ancestral home of the renowned artist Raja Ravi Varma, who was celebrated for his lifelike portrayals of Indian deities. Serving as a museum, the palace proudly exhibits a collection of his personal belongings, sketches, and paintings. Additionally, visitors can explore a dedicated gallery featuring the creations of other artists affiliated with Raja Ravi Varma’s family and artistic lineage.
Here are some essential details about the Jatayu Earth Centre that you may require before planning your trip:
Here is a list of some other attractions you may also want to visit on your Kerala tour:
The Jatayu Earth Centre in Kerala offers an extraordinary blend of mythology, art, and adventure. With its world-famous bird sculpture and immersive attractions, it promises an unforgettable experience for visitors.
For a hassle-free exploration of Kerala’s wonders, consider booking a Kerala tour package through SOTC. Their expertly crafted packages ensure seamless travel arrangements. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover the beauty of Kerala with SOTC – book your tour package today and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
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