Neelakurinji Blooms
Kerala, often dubbed 'God’s Own Country', is graced with this extraordinary natural spectacle - Neelakurinji, once every twelve years. Blooming like a thousand skies falling on the hills, the Neelakurinji attracts visitors with its carpeting beauty that veils the mountains of the Western Ghats like a decorated bride. The Neelakurinji, known botanically as Strobilanthes Kunthianus has a long blooming cycle that invites botanists and nature lovers to the mountains once it is in full blossom.
Neelakurinji, with over 40 known varieties, is a testament to nature’s artistry. The name ‘Neelakurinji’ translates to ‘blue flower’, aptly describing the visual feast of purplish-blue blooms. This shrub thrives in the shola forests of the Western Ghats and is an integral part of the region’s biodiversity.
Having a cycle of 12 years, the Neelakurinji is the much-awaited flower in southern India. While the peak blooming season is between July and October, the overall spectacle can be enjoyed for a longer period. The last grand display was in 2018, and the next opportunity to experience this awe-inspiring spectacle will be in 2030.
Munnar, located in the Idukki district, is the epicentre of the Neelakurinji bloom. Eravikulam National Park, Kovilur, Kadavari, and Rajamala offer stunning views of this floral extravaganza. The park, renowned for housing the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, provides a unique backdrop to the Neelakurinji’s vibrant display. While trekking through these areas, visitors can marvel at the flower’s purple-blue splendour, which varies in height depending on the elevation. Growth of the Neelakurinji is also seen in a few numbers at places in Yellapetty and Kanthalloor near Munnar. Besides these places, certain locations at Ooty, areas of Silent Valley Park, Mangaladevi and Attappady are some regions where the Neelakurinji can be seen. The sprawling blue carpet amid the green mountains is sure to take your breath away.
The rolling hills covered in purplish-blue flowers are not just a sight to behold but an experience to cherish. For many, witnessing this extraordinary event is a dream come true. As the flowers bloom in all their grandeur, they offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness nature’s most enchanting display. Make sure to mark your calendar for the next blooming cycle and prepare to be captivated by the celestial beauty of the Neelakurinji flowers.
