Planning a visit to the Jatayu Earth Center or Jadayupura in Kerala and not sure what to expect? This stunning destination, home to the world’s largest bird sculpture is a must-visit for everyone around.
As someone who has explored the Jatayu Earth Center, we can tell you that there’s so much more to this place than just its famous sculpture. Whether you’re interested in learning about the Jatayu’s story or enjoying the panoramic views, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
From the best times to visit and must-see attractions to practical tips on getting there, we’ve put together everything you need to know to plan your trip to Jadayupura or Jatayu park.
Ready to explore the Jatayu Earth Center in Kerala? Let’s dive in!
Jatayu Earth Center/ Jadayupara, Kerala
Table of Contents
How to Reach Jatayu Earth Center?
No direct buses are available from Varkala to Jatayu Earth Center. The best option is to rent a two wheeler (starts from INR 500 per day) or four wheeler and visit Jadayupura.
People also frequently visit Jatayu from Kollam, Kottayam, Allepey, and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). Hop on a bus that goes via Chadayamangalam and get down at Chadayamangalam bus station. Walk for about one Kilometer to reach the destination.
Dress Code
No strict dress codes are followed in Jadayupura or Jatayu Earth Center. Since a Hindu temple is located at the hill top and the Jatayu or eagle statue is related to Hindu mythology, people consider the place to be sacred and respectful.
We recommend you to dress conservatively covering your shoulders. Both men and women can wear shorts. Do not wear anything too revealing like a party wear.
Jatayu Earth Center Timings
The Jatayu Earth Center or Jadayupara is open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM on all days. Closed between 2 PM and 2:30 PM for lunch.
Entry Fee
Below are the entry fees to visit the Jatayu Earth Center or Jadayupara. The tickets cannot be booked online or in advance. You have to go to the ticket counter and get the entry tickets.
- Sculpture Visit and Walkway Fees – Rs. 325 per person (including GST)
- Sculpture Visit and Cable car ride – Rs. 555 per person (including GST)
- Only paid parking available
Note: Only cash payments are accepted. QR or card payments are not accepted for ticket booking.
Best Time To Visit Jatayu Earth Center
Jatayu Earth Center can be visited throughout the year. As the summers are hot and humid, the best time to visit is during the winter months, from September to January, when the weather is pleasant for exploration.
During the monsoon period, the cable car will be suspended on most days so the visitors are forced to climb the steps.
Book a private tour to Jatayu Nature Park!
How To Reach The Jatayu Bird Statue?
There are two ways from the ticket booking counter to reach the hilltop, where the Jatayu bird sculpture is carved.
1. Cable Car
A set of four cars with glass windows commute between the hilltop and the base. The cable cars are spacious and can accommodate about 4-6 people. They are always on the run which means, you should hop inside and get our the car as quickly as possible.
These cable cars are imported from Switzerland and are fairly convenient as they operate every day. However, if the weather conditions are bad, you might be unable to access them.
2. Walkway
You have to climb about 826 steps across 1 Km to reach the top of the hill. The last stretch is a bit of sloppy terrain with railings for support. Usually, it takes about 30 to 60 minutes to climb up and the same amount of time to climb down.
Hotels near Jatayu Earth Center
Stay options are limited near the Jatayu Earth Center as people usually take day trips from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Varkala, and nearby villages.
Jatayu homestay is the nearest located hotel located and is a good one.
Restaurants near Jatayu Nature Park
There are a few shops available on the hilltop near the Jatayu bird statue. The snack bars sell lemonade and quick grabs like Vada.
The waiting area near the Jatayu cable cars also has several eateries can be found.
Free drinking water facilities are available at the base, on the passageways, and also on the hilltop.
5 Things To Do At The Jatayu Earth Center
If you are wondering what to do the Jatayu Earth Center to Jadayupura, here are five activities that might interest you.
1. Rama Temple
Behind the Jatayu sculpture is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, an incarnation of God Vishnu. Special donations are accepted, and poojas are done in the temple regularly.
Leave your footwear at the dedicated stand before entering the temple. Although there are no clothing restrictions, wear appropriate clothing as it is a holy place of worship.
2. 6D Theatre Museum
The Jatayu sculpture houses a 6D theatre which is still under construction. It is said that the theatre will depict the story of Jatayu.
3. The Open Air Performace Center
Towards the sculpture’s left, an open-air performance stage setup is constructed to host cultural performances and small events during festivals.
A full side view of the sculpture can be seen from the stage. This glass-covered spot also serves as a viewpoint. It offers amazing views of settlements, valleys, and helipads.
4. Jatayu Adventure Park
The Jatayu adventure park located en route on the Jatayu walkway is closed for visitors. There are numerous activities for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, including ziplining, paintball, chimney climbing, side joola, Burma bridges, commando nets, log walks, vertical ladders, and more.
5. Jatayu Bird Sculpture
The Jatayu Earth Center or Jadayupura is the world’s largest bird sculpture is located at Chadayamangalam village in the Kollam district of Kerala. The rock got its name from the sculptor and movie director Rajiv Anchal.
The Jatayu statue is dedicated to ‘women’s safety and honor’ in commemoration of the effort that Jatayu made to protect Goddess Sita. It attracts numerous tourists from different parts of India every year.
The bird sculpture portrays Jatayu as a fallen soldier. The detailing and intricacies showcase Jatayu’s fate after Ravana slew him.
- The sculpture is crafted such that the bird stares into the sky with an open beak and a chopped-off wing.
- His claws are clutched tight, and his beak is open, highlighting the pain.
- The sculpture measures 200 feet in length, 150 feet in width, and 70 feet in height, occupying 5,000 square feet of floor area.
It is one of the most magnificent works of art we have ever seen, and you shouldn’t miss it.
Book a private day tour to Jatayu Nature park and Varkala at BEST price here!
Jatayu Story
According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, the demon king Ravana abducted the Goddess Sita (wife of Lord Rama). As he hastened to Lanka (now Sri Lanka) on his Pushpaka Vimana (The Flower Chariot), Sita cried out to Rama and Lakshmana (Rama’s brother) for help.
On hearing this, Jatayu (An eagle-like divine bird) flew up and tried to stop Ravana by fighting him. However, Ravana was far stronger than Jatayu and easily overpowered the latter. With his sword, Ravana slashed one of Jatayu’s wings, due to which the bird fell onto a rock.
As Sita witnessed the entire encounter, she appreciated Jatayu’s efforts and granted him a boon. Jatayau was to be alive until he met Rama to narrate the incident. Eventually, when Rama and Lakshmana reached the place searching for Sita, they learned everything that occurred and acquired information about where they could go next. It is also said that Lord Rama appreciated Jatayu’s help by granting him salvation.
The rock Jatayu fell on is where the sculpture is crafted. Furthermore, since Jatayu sacrificed his life to protect Sita’s honor, the statue symbolizes women’s safety and honor. Besides this, another intriguing myth is that the little pond near the sculpture was Jatayu’s water source and has never dried up since his altercation with Ravana. Interestingly, you can also find Rama’s footprint on the temple premises.
Overall, this is the history behind the statue. Whether you believe in the epic or not, the events make up for a fascinating tale. In fact, if you dig deeper into the epic of Ramayana, you’ll find several such mini-stories that will make you ponder your philosophies, ideologies, and more.
Languages Spoken
The officials at the center speak fluent English. Most of the local people in the region converse in Malayalam. So if you know the basics, you will be able to communicate without any hassle.
Network Availability
Jio and Airtel offer impeccable connectivity at the Jatayu Earth Center. You will have a strong signal no matter where you go in this place and be able to reach out to anyone if required easily.
ATM Availability
ATMs are available in Chadayamangalam, 1 Km away from the center. As the entry tickets should be paid in cash, bring enough cash with you.
Facilities Available
- Free cloakroom facility to keep your luggage and valuables.
- Bag check or screening is done after a quick walk about 50 m from the entrance. Plastic items, food, and drones are not allowed. You are allowed to carry cameras.
- The entire place is under CCTV surveillance. So always be mindful of your actions.
- Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available at the base station and the hilltop.
Important Points To Remember
- Unaccompanied children below the age of 7 are not permitted without parents/ guardians.
- Carrying arms, explosives, and inflammable material inside the premises is strictly prohibited.
- Individuals under the influence of alcohol or any other intoxicant will not be permitted.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited in the area.
- Ladies in their second or third trimester and individuals with epilepsy, heart ailments, and infectious diseases should avoid riding cable cars or rope cars.
Places To Visit Near Jatayu Earth Center
Here are a few tourist places you should visit near the Jatayu Earth Center or Jadayupura.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code for Jatayu earth center?
There is no specific dress code for visiting the Jatayu Earth Center. However, since it is a pilgrimage center, dress conservatively with closed shoulders.
Is advance booking needed to visit Jatayu Rock?
Prior online booking is not required or available to visit Jatayu Rock. Tickets can be bought only from the counter on reaching. Also, note that only cash payments are accepted.
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