Jatayu Earth Center rock adventure and sculpture
Jatayu Earth Center (also called Jatayupara or Jatayu Rock) is a unique combination of monumental sculpture, nature-based adventure and cultural tourism located in Chadayamangalam, Kollam district, Kerala. The centerpiece is the gigantic rock sculpture of Jatayu — a mythical bird from the Ramayana — carved into a natural rock face. The site also includes an adventure park offering activities such as rock climbing, rappelling, a giant zipline (Jatayu Earth's Center’s “Jatayu Bird Drop / Zipline”), a sky walk, and a cable car connecting the top of the hill to the base. It is designed for visitors seeking culture, panoramic viewpoints, and adrenaline experiences in a lush Western Ghats setting.
Location
Jatayu Earth Center (Jatayupara), Chadayamangalam, Kollam, India
Duration
Typical visit: 3–5 hours. Half-day for sculpture + cable car; 4–6 hours if including multiple adventure activities.
Best Time to Visit
October to March (cooler, dry season). Avoid heavy monsoon months (June–September) when adventure activities may be suspended.
Pricing
- Entry fee (approx.): INR 50–150 per person (varies by age and concessions).
- Adventure packages: INR 500–3,000 per activity/package depending on activity (zipline, rock climbing, rappelling, rope-course). Premium combos (zipline + cable car + guided trail) typically cost around INR 1,000–2,500.
- Cable car: Often charged separately (approx. INR 150–400 round trip).
- Note: Prices fluctuate seasonally and for special events—check the official site or contact the park before visiting.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
World’s largest bird sculpture (Jatayu) carved into rock, with detailed features and interpretive panels
Panoramic viewpoints of the Western Ghats and surrounding countryside
Thrilling adventure activities: giant zipline, rock climbing, rappelling, rope courses
Cable car ride offering dramatic ascent/descent to the mountaintop
Cultural displays and small museum sections about local legends and the Ramayana
Well-designed walking trails, viewpoints and photographic opportunities
Sunrise/sunset views from the ridge (weather permitting)
Itinerary
Arrival, ticketing and orientation
Purchase tickets (or show booking confirmation). Watch the short orientation brief: safety rules and activity schedules. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Cable car up to Jatayu sculpture and viewpoint
Cable car gives a fast, scenic ascent. Carry small bags; follow staff instructions when boarding. If you prefer, there are steps/trails to hike up (longer / steeper).
Explore sculpture, museum and photo stops
Walk around the sculpture platform, read interpretive panels about the Jatayu legend and take photos. Accessibility: main areas reachable but some vantage points require stairs.
Adventure activities (zipline, rock climbing, rappelling)
Book time slots for preferred activities; each activity includes briefing and harnessing. Expect 30–60 minutes per activity including safety checks. Bring ID and follow instructor directions.
Lunch / Break
On-site cafeteria or packed lunch. Limited picnic spots — keep the area clean. Local eateries are available near the base.
Nature walk / viewpoint exploration / souvenir shopping
Stroll the trails, visit viewpoints for late-afternoon light, and check the gift shop for local crafts.
Cable car descent and departure
Arrive at the boarding point 10–15 minutes early for your scheduled descent. Verify ground transport / cab arrangements in advance.
Safety Requirements
All adventure activities require proper safety gear supplied by the park (harness, helmet, karabiners).
Participants must attend a safety briefing and be supervised by trained instructors.
Minimum and maximum age/weight limits apply for certain activities — confirm before booking.
Not recommended for pregnant visitors, people with severe heart conditions, recent surgery, or serious mobility impairments.
Wear closed-toe footwear with good grip; remove loose jewelry and secure phones/cameras during activities.
Follow staff instructions at all times; do not attempt unauthorized climbs or routes.
Tips
Book adventure slots and cable-car tickets online in advance during peak season.
Carry a government ID for bookings and age/identity verification.
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes; bring sunscreen, hat and a light rain jacket if visiting shoulder season.
Carry enough water and snacks; refill points available but limited.
Check weather and official park advisories on the day of visit — activities may be canceled in high winds/rain.
If you want fewer crowds and softer light for photos, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits.
Local transport: nearest major towns are Kollam (approx. 40–50 km) and Thiruvananthapuram (~65–85 km). Arrange return transport in advance if using taxis.
Respect the site: it’s a cultural monument — do not deface rock, and follow rules on drone usage (drones may be restricted).
For groups or special events (filming, school trips), contact park management ahead of time for permissions and group rates.
