The forest department officials are restricting visitors coming to the Nilgiris, where the stunning Neelakurinji flowers have recently bloomed, spreading a beautiful pink and purplish blanket across the terrain. This rare and beautiful plant can be found on the slopes of Ambanad Hills and Pikkapathi Mandu in the region.

Officials from the forest department have cautioned that fines will be imposed for trespassing in this protected area. Neelakurinji, known for its spectacular blooms, flowers only once every twelve years.

These plants typically grow to heights ranging from 30 to 60 cm and are part of a diverse family of Kurinji species, some of which bloom every three years. 

Neelakurinji is found across various states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Goa, with the flowering event being a major tourist attraction in Munnar.

The lifecycle of the Neelakurinji is particularly sensitive; the seeds that fall from their dried flowers contribute to the formation of new saplings. Therefore, plucking the flowers is strictly prohibited to ensure the continuation of this unique species and its blooms.