Neelakurinji-like bloom adds charm to Kudremukh Hills

A rare blue-violet flower resembling the Neelakurinji has bloomed along trekking trails in the Kudremukh region of Karnataka’s Chikkamagaluru district, adding a fresh attraction for nature lovers and trekkers. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its rich biodiversity, and Kudremukh National Park, a key part of this ecosystem, has become a focal point for visitors drawn to this seasonal spectacle. The limited bloom, first observed in greater numbers during 2022–23, has returned this year, though in smaller quantities, enhancing the park’s scenic beauty.

Forest and Tourism Department officials in Chikkamagaluru confirmed the presence of these flowers, which have reappeared in patches across the green hills. While not as widespread as the famed Neelakurinji blooms that cover vast stretches of the Western Ghats every 12 years, their sporadic appearance still draws attention. Locals and homestay owners like Sampath, who runs Namma Mane near Kalasa in Chikkamagaluru, anticipate a rise in tourism similar to last year’s influx. “The flowers last time brought many visitors to the area,” he said, expressing hope for a repeat this season.

Karnataka’s Tourism Minister K.J. George emphasized the ecological value of such blooms, stating they highlight the state’s natural heritage. “The blue-violet flowers in Kudremukh reflect the untouched beauty of Karnataka’s Western Ghats,” he said. He urged tourists to adopt eco-friendly practices while visiting, stressing the importance of preserving fragile ecosystems.

Ram Prasath Manohar, Secretary of the Tourism Department, echoed this call for responsible tourism. He noted that the limited bloom this year has sparked interest among trekking enthusiasts but warned against disturbing the flowers. “Visitors must not pluck the blooms, as it disrupts their natural growth cycle,” he said. His department has instructed officials to guide tourists on sustainable behavior, including avoiding littering and preventing damage to the habitat.

Officials have also asked trekkers to stay on designated paths to minimize environmental impact. The seasonal bloom, though small, serves as a reminder of the Western Ghats’ fragile yet resilient ecosystem, where even minor changes can affect biodiversity. Conservationists have long stressed the need to balance tourism with preservation, especially in protected areas like Kudremukh National Park.

As visitors return to enjoy the rare sight, authorities continue monitoring the blooms to ensure they remain undisturbed. While the flowers may not cover the hills as densely as the legendary Neelakurinji, their presence adds to the allure of Kudremukh, reinforcing the region’s status as a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts in Karnataka.

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