Kerala has a wonderful way of bringing together nature, mythology, adventure, and unforgettable landscapes. Our one-day journey from Kalamassery took us through two fascinating destinations in Kollam—Jatayu Earth’s Center and Sambranikodi Island.
An Early Morning Journey from Kalamassery
Our adventure began at 4:00 AM from Kalamassery. With the roads still quiet and the sky slowly beginning to brighten, we set off towards Kollam, picking up fellow travellers from the designated boarding points along the way.
Our first destination was Jatayu Earth’s Center at Chadayamangalam, a spectacular destination set amid Kerala’s rugged hills and natural landscapes.
Located on a rocky hill about 350 metres above sea level, Jatayu Earth’s Center is spread across approximately 65 acres. The destination beautifully combines mythology, art, nature, and adventure.
The Magnificent Jatayu Sculpture
As we approached the summit, the enormous figure of Jatayu came into view.
Inspired by the legendary bird from the Ramayana, the sculpture is one of the most remarkable sights in Kerala. Measuring approximately 200 feet in length, 150 feet in width, and 70 feet in height, it stretches dramatically across the rocky summit.
The sculpture represents Jatayu, who, according to the epic, fought Ravana while attempting to rescue Sita. Standing beside this enormous work of art makes the story feel remarkably vivid.
One of the most enjoyable parts of the visit is the journey to the summit itself. Visitors can take the cable car, offering a comfortable and scenic ride over the surrounding landscape. For those who prefer a more active experience, there is also an uphill walkway with 826 steps, winding through the natural terrain.
Afternoon: A Boat Ride to Sambranikodi Island
After spending the morning exploring Jatayu Earth’s Center, it was time to continue our journey towards Sambranikodi Island.
The afternoon brought a completely different experience. Leaving the hills behind, we headed towards the backwaters and boarded a boat for the journey to the island.
The boat ride itself became part of the adventure. Surrounded by Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, we could slow down and simply enjoy the scenery. The peaceful water, lush surroundings, and gentle movement of the boat offered a refreshing contrast to the excitement of the morning.
Sambranikodi gave us an opportunity to experience another side of Kollam—one shaped by waterways, village landscapes, and the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters.
Back to Ernakulam
By late afternoon, our day of exploration was coming to an end. After enjoying the island and the boat journey, we began our return journey to Ernakulam.
A Journey Worth Taking
This journey is a wonderful example of how diverse Kerala can be. In the morning, we stood beneath one of the world’s largest bird sculptures, surrounded by hills and mythology. By afternoon, we were gliding through peaceful backwaters towards an island.
For anyone looking for a day trip that combines culture, mythology, adventure, nature, and backwater experiences, the route from Kalamassery to Jatayu Earth’s Center and Sambranikodi Island makes for a memorable Kerala adventure.
Sometimes, the best journeys are the ones that begin before sunrise and leave you with stories to remember long after you return home.
