Jatayu Nature Park is located near Chadayamangalam in Kollam district, Kerala. It is famous for housing the world's largest bird sculpture and offers a unique blend of adventure and nature. Many travelers visit this park to enjoy its scenic beauty and adventure activities.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Jatayu Nature Park from major nearby cities. You will learn about train, bus, car, and taxi options, along with practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Major Cities to Jatayu Nature Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for reaching areas near Jatayu Nature Park. The closest major railway station is Kollam Junction, well connected to many cities in Kerala and beyond.

• Kollam Junction railway station is approximately 40 km from Jatayu Nature Park, connected by frequent local buses and taxis. Trains from Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and other cities stop here regularly.

• From Kollam, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Chadayamangalam, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Train fares vary widely depending on the class, typically ranging from ₹100 to ₹600 for journeys from nearby cities like Thiruvananthapuram or Ernakulam to Kollam.

• During monsoon season, train services may face delays, so it is advisable to check real-time updates on IRCTC or NTES apps before traveling.

• Booking tickets in advance through IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals or holiday seasons when trains can be crowded.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to reach Jatayu Nature Park from nearby towns and cities. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators run regular services.

• KSRTC buses run frequently from Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram to Chadayamangalam, the nearest town to the park, with journey times of about 1 to 2 hours depending on the starting point.

• From Chadayamangalam bus stop, local auto-rickshaws or taxis can take you to Jatayu Nature Park, which is around 5 km away on NH744.

• Bus fares from Kollam to Chadayamangalam typically range between ₹30 and ₹70, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.

• During peak hours and festival seasons, buses tend to be crowded, so boarding early is advisable to secure a seat.

• Monsoon rains can cause occasional delays on the NH744 highway, so plan extra travel time during June to September.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Jatayu Nature Park offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. The park is well connected by road.

• The park is located on National Highway 744, about 45 km from Kollam and 65 km from Thiruvananthapuram, making it accessible by car within 1.5 to 2 hours from these cities.

• Driving via NH744 offers scenic views but includes toll plazas and winding roads, so be prepared for moderate driving conditions.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available along the route, with popular options near Kottarakkara and Punalur towns.

• Self-drive cars can be rented from major cities like Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, with daily rates typically between ₹1500 and ₹3000 depending on the vehicle type.

• During monsoon season, roads may be slippery; drive cautiously and check weather updates before starting your journey.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or app-based cab is a convenient option if you prefer a direct and hassle-free journey to Jatayu Nature Park. This is especially useful for small groups or families.

• Ola and Uber operate in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram, allowing you to book cabs directly to the park with upfront fare estimates and driver tracking.

• Taxi fares from Kollam to Jatayu Nature Park usually range between ₹800 and ₹1200, depending on vehicle type and time of day.

• Prepaid taxis are available at Kollam railway station and bus terminals, offering fixed rates to the park to avoid bargaining.

• Booking a cab for a round trip or half-day can be economical and gives you flexibility to explore the park and nearby attractions.

• During weekends and holidays, taxi availability may be limited, so booking in advance is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers to Jatayu Nature Park to help you navigate the journey smoothly and confidently.

• Book your train or bus ticket in advance through IRCTC or KSRTC online portals to secure your seat, especially during peak seasons or festivals.

• Arrive early at your departure station or bus terminal to avoid last-minute rush and ensure a comfortable boarding experience.

• Upon arrival at Kollam railway station or bus stand, use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber to reach Chadayamangalam or directly to the park.

• Carry a local SIM card or ensure mobile data is active for easy navigation and communication with drivers or guides.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon months to stay comfortable during your visit.

• Confirm park opening hours and any adventure activity bookings in advance to avoid disappointment and plan your day efficiently.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs to avoid overcharging, especially when traveling from railway stations or bus terminals in Kerala.

• Drink bottled water and eat at recommended local eateries to avoid stomach issues, as hygiene standards vary in small towns.

• Book tickets for trains and buses early on weekends and festival days to avoid sold-out situations common in Kerala’s busy travel seasons.

• Local transport like auto-rickshaws are available but negotiate fares beforehand or insist on meter usage to prevent misunderstandings.

• Carry a small first-aid kit and insect repellent, as the park is surrounded by forested areas where mosquitoes are common, especially in the evenings.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides; check weather and road conditions before traveling and avoid night driving.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Jatayu Nature Park is during the dry months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are enjoyable. Avoid the heavy monsoon months for safer travel.

Peak travel periods include school holidays and festivals like Onam and Christmas, when the park can be crowded and accommodation prices rise. Planning your trip during weekdays can help avoid crowds.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains and possible roadblocks on NH744.

• Early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and less crowd, ideal for adventure activities and photography.

• Festive seasons like Onam and Christmas see increased tourist traffic, so book transport and accommodation well in advance.

• Fog can reduce visibility during early mornings in winter months, so plan travel times accordingly to ensure safety on winding roads.

Arrival at Jatayu Nature Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Jatayu Nature Park, you will find well-marked entry points and parking areas. The park is spread over a large area with facilities for adventure sports, nature walks, and cultural exhibits.

Local transport options inside the park are limited, so be prepared to walk or use park-provided shuttle services. Nearby towns like Chadayamangalam and Kollam offer accommodation ranging from budget hotels to homestays.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available for return journeys, and it is advisable to book your ride before sunset as public transport options become scarce in the evening.

Conclusion

Traveling to Jatayu Nature Park is straightforward with several transport options available. Taking a train to Kollam followed by a taxi or bus is the most economical and commonly used route. For those seeking convenience, hiring a cab or driving offers flexibility and comfort.

Plan your trip by booking tickets in advance, checking weather conditions, and choosing travel times that avoid peak crowds. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and memorable visit to this unique adventure and nature destination in Kerala.