Neel Kurinji ( Strobilanthes kunthianus)
A flower that blooms once in 12 years, endemic to western ghats. It blooms synchronously covering entire hillocks making them look blue in colour.
Neel Kurinji bloom in Chikmagalur ( September 2022)
Chikmagalur district has been witnessing blooms in September 2022. This may last for 1- 1.5 months. Individual flowers as such stay for couple of days only.However, the overall bloom season should last for few months.
Core areas
Blooms are mainly found in Seetaaleyanagiri, road towards Mullayangiri, road towards datta peetha/Bababudangiri and Attigundi.
There are 2 forest checkposts which shall also guide you towards the blooms.
More details
-Almost every hill is blue, please spot the ones that are trekkable.
-Also please spot the hills where you can climb up and not climb down towards the valley (as downward inclines may be risky)
-Drones are prohibited and so is plucking of flowers.
-Photography is allowed.
-The peaks may be covered with fog, you may have to wait for few minutes to an hour to get a clear view for photography.
-Rain alert! Please equip yourselves with raincoat/ Umbrellas.
-Leech alert! Beware of leaches as it's rainy season and ward them off using dettol and turmeric powder.
Happy Trekking and Tourism :)
