Tour with Shailesh: Neelakurinji blooms in Kolukkumalai
Kolukkumalai is a tea plantation; spread across 500 acres and around 8000 feet high from sea level. It is said to be a plantation without pesticides and chemical application and the tea from Kolukkumail is said to be of high quality and taste.
This year the visual extravagance, which happens once in 12 years – blooming of Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana)- has been present in Kolukkumali Mostly the flowers start blooming from July. However, due to rain and floods, the blooming has delayed this year. Neelakurinji flowers are usually visible at Vattavada and Rajamala region of Munnar. This year, Kolukkumalai also blessed with Neelakurinji blooms.
Kolukkumalai is 13 Kilo Meter away from Suryanelli in Munnar. Up to Suryanelli, one can travel with normal vehicles, but from there four wheel drive jeeps to be used. Normally Rs 1500-2000 will be charged for jeeps to reach Kolukkumalai.
In this video, Shailesh shows you the beauty of the Western Ghats and the once in 12 years visual treat of blooming of Neelakurinji.