India is a land of many unique wonders and of them, there is a natural spectacle coming up on the calendar; the blooming of Neelakurinji flowers that happens only once in 12 years. These beautiful bluish-purple flowers grow in the Western Ghats. To witness this fascinating sight, the hills of Munnar in Kerala welcome tourists from all over the world from August 2018 to October 2018.
The blooming season of Neelakurinji is an extraordinary event that transforms the rolling hills of Kerala, especially the loved hill town Munnar into a sea of blue. Here is our guide that helps you with all information on making plans to attend the rare natural spectacle.
What is Neelakurinji?
Neelakurinji is the name of bell-shaped purple bluish flowers. The name in the local Malayalam language means ‘Blue Flowers’. While it is scientifically named Strobilanthes Kunthiana. The name Kunthiana is said to be derived from the River “Kunthi”. The beautiful bushy shrub of the Kurinji flower is exclusive to the mountain slopes of the Nilgiris Mountain Range and the Shola forests of the Western Ghats. There are more than 40 varieties of Neelakurinji blooms. Out of the 46 plant species that bloom in 10 to 16 years found in India, Neelakurinji is the best-known occurrence that can be witnessed by visitors.
Why you must not miss the Neelakurinji in Bloom?
The view of a blue sea of flowers hidden in the misty mountains is a compelling reason to visit. But if that is not all, then you must visit the blooming of Neelakurinji as it happens only once in 12 years. After a long wait, the natural occurrence is coming up in 2018, from the months of August to October. The five months of the calendar- June, July, August, September and October will witness the extravagant sight of mountains in a dreamy shade of blue.
[You may also read: Top 10 Things to do in Munnar]
Where to go to witness the blooming of Neelakurinji?
The habitat of Neelakurinji is mostly 1800m above sea level, in the rolling slopes of the Nilgiris ‘Blue Mountains’ and the Shola Grasslands surrounding the heavenly city of Munnar. Kurinji flower is a symbol of the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats and a measure by which the Pulaya tribes calculated their age.
For the best view of the Neelakurinji is bloom, Munnar, the hill town in Kerala is the best place. Counted among the most beautiful hill stations in South India, nature has blessed this corner of God’s Own Country with an out of the world beauty. Nestled in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 6000 ft, the town is located in the Idukki district of Kerala.
In Munnar the places you must not miss to see Neelakurinji Bloom Season 2018 are:
Kurinjimala Sanctuary located at Kottakamboor and Vattavada villages of Devikulam Taluk in Munnar, spread across a whopping 32 sq. km. protects the core habitat of the Neelakurinji plant. The last Neelakurinji Fest 2006 at Munnar took place here the last time they bloomed.
The second major attraction to spot the blooming Neelakurinji in a vast amount during it season is, the Eravikulam National Park. However, entry to the national park is restricted.
Explore the Neelakurinji Flowers with the below packages:
Nearby Attractions
Apart from the awe-inspiring view of flowers in bloom, the beautiful tea plantations, waterfalls, forests, valleys and wildlife add to the charm of Munnar. The elusive Nilgiri Tahr, the endangered mountain goat, endemic to these hills add to the thrill of your expedition.
Do not miss the Blooming Season of Neelakurinji 2018. If you miss the opportunity then you have to wait for another 12 years.
Also Read: Top 10 Hill Stations in Kerala