The Nilgiris forest division has recently taken steps to protect the gregarious flowering of the Neelakurinji plants, a rare sight attracting tourists and locals. Personnel from the forest department have been deployed to prevent people from disturbing these blooms, particularly around Udhagamandalam (Ooty).
In the Nilgiris, the flowering of another species, believed to be Strobilanthes kunthiana, has been spotted near both Udhagamandalam and Kotagiri. As news spreads about this synchronised mass blooming, many are eager to visit these sites to capture pictures.
However, officials have clarified that one of these locations lies within a protected reserve forest. Entering this area is strictly prohibited, and violators could face penalties. On the other hand, the site near Kotagiri is easily accessible from a roadside, allowing visitors to take pictures as long as they don’t disturb the area.
Tourists have also been warned not to pick the flowers. According to reports, the forest department has been urged to document these occurrences to monitor whether the range of the Strobilanthes species is stable or shrinking over time. This would help in future conservation efforts and in understanding the behaviour of these unique plants.
The Neelakurinji, or Strobilanthes kunthiana, is a rare flower that blooms in around 40 varieties, most of which are blue. The word 'Neela' means blue, while 'kurinji' is a term given to it by the local tribal communities. This breathtaking spectacle's bloom season typically begins in August and lasts until October. In Munnar, prime spots to witness this natural wonder include Kovilur, Kadavari, Rajamala, and Eravikulam National Park.
For botanists and nature enthusiasts, the blooming of the Neelakurinji is a highly anticipated event, often marked on calendars years in advance. The shorter variety, reaching about 2 feet in height, is typically found at higher elevations, while the taller ones, growing between 5 to 10 feet, can be seen at lower altitudes. Specialised tours and treks are organised to witness this once-in-12-years spectacle, offering a rare opportunity to experience nature's fleeting masterpiece.
(With inputs from multiple reports)