Kerala is getting ready for its most sought-after attraction Neelakurinji aka Strobilanthes kunthiana. Every 12 years, the hills of the famed tourist destination, Munnar gets covered in a hue of violet. The gradient slopes of Eravikulam National Park is the prime locality where Neelakurinji blooms. Neelakurinji which blooms once in every twelve years will make its appearance by the end of this month and will stay up until October, during which more than a million tourist from both India and abroad flock the hill station to catch a glimpse of this once in a blue moon sight. Neelakurinji is also found in the Eastern Ghats, whereas in Western Ghats Munnar has the biggest collection of Neelakurinji in India which is spread over an area of 3000 hectares.

Image From: Campper

This land is also home to Muthuvans, an Adivasi tribe, who deems the Kurunji flowers to be sacred. The legend goes as Lord Murugan, married Devi using a garland made of these flowers. The age of the tribal people and other important events are calculated using the periodic flowering as a time scale, showing how big a role these flowers play in their daily lives. Muthuvan Krishnan, one of the eldest community members says he is close to 100, having seen eight Kurinji blooms in his lifetime. Large swarms of bees and other insects are found during the blooming season owing to the Neelakurinji plants. The honey harvested after the blooming season, called Kurinji honey is believed to be thicker, sweeter and medicinal.

The Government of Kerala has launched a microsite that provides all kinds of information regarding how to reach and where to stay among many other important information. R Lekshmi, the Wildlife Warden of Munnar is currently gearing up the facilities in the park for an estimated footfall of over 5000 people per day. Both security and convenience are taken care by implementing Kurunji protection squad, CCTV and a fresh fleet of buses for travel. “In 12 years, the climate has changed. There has been much rain this time. If rains don’t play spoilsport and delay the blooms, the Neelakurunji should be there for all to see by the end of July”, says Lekshmi. Watching the Neelakurinji in full bloom is undoubtedly one of the most unique experiences in Kerala and is highly recommended.

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