PEAKLIFE

Like clockwork, the slopes of Munnar in Kerala burst into an ocean of blue, an uncommon common scene for which tourists scramble towards. An unending stretch of moving slopes covered with minor blue blossoms attracts visitors. It is the time Neelakurinji, a bloom with 40 odd assortments, blooms in the entirety of its greatness.

MUNNAR

Munnar ascends as three mountain streams combine – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above ocean level, this slope station was at one time the late spring resort of the past British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picturesque towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking. Among the fascinating greenery found in the woodlands and meadows here is the Neelakurinji. This blossom which washes the slopes in blue once in like clockwork, will sprout next in July-2018.

NEELAKURINJI

The botanical name of the flower is ‘Strobilanthes kunthianus’. In the origin place its known as ‘neelakurinji’. This stellar wonder can be seen between the long stretches of July 2018 and October 2018 when the blossom sprouts in the entirety of its brilliance releasing a visual event. This monumental event is the blooming of the Neelakurinji flower, which appears once every 12 years, and can only be viewed here in Munnar, Kerala.

Indeed, there is no preferred time to visit Munnar over when the Neelakurinji sprouts as one huge mob or even valley full of flowers.

The Nilgiri Tahr, the endangered mountain goat, is endemic to these slopes. The glorious mountain goat sauntering down the slopes that are swathed in Neelakurinji makes for an amazingly baffling sight. Overwhelmed with tourist demands, numerous travel organisers have opened their bookings well ahead of time. A large number of tour packages are currently accessible for travellers. In addition, tour organisers and enterprise clubs organise trekking in these slopes when the Neelakurinji sprouts. This exceptional lifecycle of the plant makes the slopes an absolute necessity visit goal for biologists and nature lovers alike.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS

Eravikulam National Park

One of the fundamental attractions close Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park. This stop is acclaimed for its jeopardized tenant – the Nilgiri Tahr. Spread over a region of 97 sq. km., this stop is likewise home to a few types of uncommon butterflies, creatures and feathered creatures. An extraordinary place for trekking, the recreation centre offers an eminent perspective of the tea ranches stroked by covers of fogs.

Anamudi Peak

Situated inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. This is the most noteworthy hill in South India, remaining at a height of more than 2700m. Treks to the hill are permitted with consent from the Forest and Wildlife experts at Eravikulam.

Top Station

Top Station, which is around 32 km from Munnar is at a stature of 1700 m above ocean level. It is the most elevated point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. Travellers to Munnar make it a point to visit Top Station to appreciate the panoramic view it offers of the neighbouring province of Tamil Nadu. It is among the prime spots in Munnar to appreciate the Neelakurinji blossoms sprouting over a huge region.