Visitors to the hills of Munnar in Kerala's Idukki district can feast their eyes on a spectacular carpet of purplish-blue, as the Neelakurinji is all set to bloom in just a few weeks’ time. For nature lovers, this is a sight to behold as the Neelakurinji, a shrub common in the Western Ghats, breaks into a glorious bloom only once in 12 years.
The much sought-after hill station is set to witness a surge in tourists as the blooming period draws near. Munnar is home to the largest concentration of the kurinji plant in the country. Even if you are not much of a trek person, indulge in one this season to catch the kurinji in full glory. While tourists soak in the mesmerising beauty of the blue flowers, they can also spot the Nilgiri Tahr at the Eravikulam National Park which is also one of the main flowering areas. The Nilgiri Tahr, the endangered mountain goat, is endemic to the region.
Thanks to widespread publicity to the phenomenon through social media platforms, Kerala expects more footfall this season compared to the 2006 bloom. The Kerala government is gearing up to enable an enjoyable experience for tourists—over 8 lakh travellers are expected during the July to October period. Idukki District Collector G.R. Gokul along with the district administration and tourism department has made many revisions regarding the number of visitors to be allowed, entry fee, traffic control, parking, health and safety of the tourists. The National Transportation Planning and Research Centre (NATPAC) has spotted a few apt spots for a miraculous view of the Kurinji bloom.
The district administration and the wildlife department have warned people against stealing Neelakurinji plant or flower. People who are caught will have to pay a heavy penalty.
Tickets will be available online from the end of June. According to reports, 75 per cent of the tickets will be sold online and the rest will be sold offline through the counters at Marayoor Wildlife Complex (Old Munnar). Revised ticket rates and the number of people allowed per day at the park, will be announced through the new online website that will be launched by the wildlife department.