When Will Neelakurinji Bloom Again...

Where To See Neelakurinji?

Introduction: A Bloom Like No Other

Nestled in the misty embrace of the Western Ghats, the quaint village of Kanthalloor in Kerala awakens to a spectacular transformation once every 12 years. The reason? A rare botanical marvel – the blooming of the Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) flower. This purple-blue blossom, which carpets the hillsides in a dreamlike hue, offers nature lovers, photographers, and wanderers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to witness one of India’s most enchanting floral displays.

In 2024–2025, the elusive Kurinji made its grand appearance in parts of Kanthalloor, drawing attention from across the globe. This blog takes you on a journey through the mystical Kurinji season in Kanthalloor – covering when and where to visit, what to expect, and how to experience it responsibly.

Understanding the Neelakurinji Phenomenon

The Neelakurinji is no ordinary flower. It is a gregarious bloomer, meaning the entire population of plants in a region blooms simultaneously after a specific cycle – in this case, every 12 years. The spectacle lasts for just 2 to 3 months, after which the plants die, leaving behind seeds that lie dormant until the next cycle.

The name ‘Neela’ means blue in Malayalam and Tamil, while ‘Kurinji’ is the name of the hill region where it grows. Found only in the Shola grasslands of the Western Ghats between 1200–2400 metres, the flower symbolises the ethereal connection between time, nature, and resilience.

Why Kanthalloor?

While Munnar is more famously associated with Kurinji blooms, Kanthalloor has emerged as a hidden gem during the recent flowering season. Located just 50 km from Munnar and perched at an altitude of around 1800 metres, Kanthalloor offers a serene alternative to the often-crowded tourist hotspots.

With its pristine forests, organic farms, and charming climate, Kanthalloor provides an ideal habitat for the Kurinji to thrive. Moreover, its lesser-known status ensures that visitors can enjoy the bloom in peace, surrounded by birdsong and cool mountain breezes.

Best Time to Visit

The Kurinji blooming season in Kanthalloor typically starts around late July to early August and may continue until October, depending on the weather and altitude.

Ideal Travel Window:

Peak bloom: Mid-August to September
Avoid heavy rains: Early July might still see monsoons
Crowd-free days: Weekdays offer more solitude

It is advisable to check with local tourism officials or forest departments before planning your trip, as bloom intensity may vary across different zones.

Where to See the Kurinji in Kanthalloor

While the entire region of Kanthalloor is dotted with patches of Kurinji, some locations offer especially vivid displays. Here are a few prime spots:

1. Kundala–Kanthalloor Forest Trails

Trekking through these serene trails offers a direct encounter with Kurinji-covered slopes. The contrast of purple blooms against dark green Shola forests is mesmerising.

2. Pampadum Shola National Park

A biodiversity hotspot, this national park often hosts Kurinji patches along its fringes. Guided forest treks can provide both safety and insight into the ecosystem.

3. Anaimudi–Chinnar Wildlife Corridor

Some remote areas along this corridor burst into life with Kurinji during the season. Entry requires forest department permission, ensuring conservation remains a priority.

4. Farm Viewpoints and Homestay Hills

Many local homestays and organic farms in Kanthalloor are surrounded by private hills where Kurinji can be seen blooming amidst cultivated landscapes – a truly unique blend of wild and pastoral beauty.

What to Expect: A Multisensory Experience

Visiting Kanthalloor during the Kurinji bloom is not just about visual splendour. It’s a complete sensory journey:

Sight: Undulating hills painted in surreal shades of violet-blue.
Smell: A mild, earthy aroma from the Kurinji, mixed with eucalyptus and pine.
Sound: Chirping birds, rustling leaves, and occasional wind whispers through the valley.
Feel: Cool mountain air brushing past your face as you gaze upon nature’s rarest performance.

Expect plenty of photography enthusiasts, botanists, and travellers, yet the crowd levels remain manageable compared to Munnar.

Things to Do During the Kurinji Season

1. Kurinji Photography Walks

Whether you’re an amateur or a pro, the bloom offers unmatched photographic opportunities. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the bloom under soft lighting.

2. Nature Treks & Guided Walks

Local guides offer eco-sensitive walks through Kurinji clusters, helping visitors understand the plant’s lifecycle, ecological importance, and history.

3. Visit Tribal Settlements

Learn how indigenous communities like the Muthuvans have coexisted with this land for centuries. Their folklore often includes references to the Kurinji flower.

4. Taste Kanthalloor’s Organic Produce

Try apple cider, plums, pears, carrots, and avocados, all grown organically. A stroll through orchards adds a delightful culinary angle to your trip.

Responsible Tourism and Conservation

The Kurinji season is as fragile as it is beautiful. Here’s how you can help protect it:

Stick to marked trails – avoid trampling plants or disturbing the ecosystem.
Avoid plucking flowers – each bloom is part of a larger ecological cycle.
Do not litter – carry reusable water bottles and biodegradable products.
Choose eco-friendly stays – support homestays and eco-resorts that practise sustainability.
Respect local culture – dress modestly, seek permission before photographing locals, and participate in community-led experiences.

The Kerala Forest Department and Eco-tourism Society often organise awareness programmes during bloom season – joining one can greatly enrich your visit.

How to Reach Kanthalloor

By Road:

From Munnar: 50 km (approx. 2 hours via Marayoor)
From Kochi: 175 km (approx. 6 hours)

By Rail:

Nearest station: Aluva (175 km)
Followed by a taxi or KSRTC bus ride

By Air:

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
From here, hire a taxi or take a combination of buses to Kanthalloor

Tip: Renting a vehicle offers flexibility, especially if you plan to explore hidden trails or stay in remote locations.

Where to Stay

From rustic homestays to charming eco-resorts, Kanthalloor offers something for every traveller:

Muniyara Homestay – Offers a panoramic view of Kurinji-covered hills.
Nature’s Lap Eco-Stay – Ideal for birdwatchers and trekkers.
Kanthalloor Heritage Bungalow – A colonial-style bungalow with antique charm and organic meals.

Booking early is essential during the bloom season, especially from August to September.

What to Pack

Warm layers: Evenings can be chilly
Rain protection: A light raincoat or umbrella for occasional drizzles
Good trekking shoes: For navigating trails
Camera with zoom lens: To capture both wide shots and macro flower details
Binoculars: For birdwatching
Reusable water bottles and snacks: Limited commercial outlets in remote spots

A Rare Bucket List Experience

To witness the Kurinji bloom in Kanthalloor is to witness time itself blooming – a reminder that some of the most precious wonders in nature require patience, preservation, and presence. It’s not just a trip; it’s a memory etched in colour, scent, and serenity.

So if you missed the 2018 bloom in Munnar or are looking for a more secluded and soulful experience, let Kanthalloor be your portal to this once-in-a-dozen-years phenomenon. Come for the flowers, stay for the silence.