Neelakurinji paints Munnar violet as blooms spread across Mattupetty, Chokramudi

The hills of Munnar have draped themselves in a mesmerising shade of bluish purple as the rare Neelakurinji flowers begin to blanket the landscapes of Chokramudi and the Mattupetty Korandakkad hills. The stunning natural phenomenon has turned the Western Ghats into a visual masterpiece, drawing nature enthusiasts and travellers from across the country.

While the blooming season commenced at Chokramudi near Gap Road, the vibrant purple hues have now spread across several acres of hilly terrain owned by a private tea company in Korandakkad. Visitors can reach this breathtaking site by taking a scenic two-kilometre trek near the High Range School in Korandakkad, though entry requires permission from the plantation company. 

A carpet of violet awaits sunshine
According to Forest officials, the hills are expected to look like a seamless violet carpet within the next 10 days, provided the area receives a week of dry, sunny weather. The Chokramudi hills were the first to witness the blooms this season, but flowers have also started appearing in Munnar town, Nallathanni, and Ikka Nagar. If the weather conditions remain favourable, the blooming is expected to expand further into surrounding areas in the coming weeks.

Surge in tourist footfall
The opening of the Neelakurinji sanctuary has triggered a significant influx of tourists. Within just seven days of opening the designated viewpoints to the public, the sanctuary welcomed nearly 8,000 visitors, generating over ₹7 lakh in revenue for the Forest department.

Tourism officials anticipate that the spectacular bloom will remain on display until September 30, giving travellers ample time to witness this magical transformation of the hills.