An iconic destination of fantasies and legends, the Jatayu Earth Center near Kollam is an intriguing case of how our mythologies shape our destinations. At the core of this exceptional stone themed nature park is a mammoth statue of the legendary Jatayu from the ‘Ramayana’. A visit to this park will leave you breathless in the wonder of the beauty and marvel of the sculpture and the view from atop.
The myth of this place has its roots to Ramayana. Owing to its history and legend, this place was transformed in recent years to an eco-tourism destination. The gargantuan statue was sculpted by a famous stone carver and producer Rajiv Anchal who had constantly contributed his hard work and ideas into a creation that took years to complete.
Though the principal feature of the Jatayu Earth Center is the compelling statue of the bird, Jatayu, that dominates the hill. Standing 200 feet long, 150 feet wide and 70 feet tall, this is the largest functional bird statue on the planet. Owing to the legend of the bird, the structure has a 15, 000 sq ft room inside to showcase the Ramayana Theme with the help of a 6D theatre.
The Jatayu Earth Center is worked around the statue of the mammoth bird, and it envelops four hills.
The first hill, known as Jatayuppara in Malayalam, is the tallest rock with a height of 1000 feet. The Jatayu sculpture is made in this rock.
The second hill, known as the Adventure Rock, hosts a series of adventure activities in and around this rock.
The third hill, known as Aanappara, has more activities around the rock. It has a zip line, sky cycling, night tent, campfire, moonlight dinner with live music, live kitchen etc.
The fourth hill, known as Adukkalappara, hosts activities which include Siddha rejuvenation in natural caves with accommodation and herbal garden. A helipad is also made closer to this hill.
The cable cars that take you uphill to the sculpture are a great attraction as they can accommodate up to eight people at once. These Swiss cars give you an amazing perspective as you float over the hill to the highest point of the slope.
Plan your next day out here to enjoy both the marvel of the sculpture and adventure at the hills of Jatayu Earth Center.
Travelogue 