Why Munnar Turns Blue And Purple Once In Every 12 Years? A Look Into Rare Event, How To Visit And Complete Travel Guide

Munnar is already known for its beautiful and picturesque scenery and greenery, but something unique has happened in the city that is rare, and it has caught everyone's attention. Munnar has turned blue and purple, and it is indeed a sight to behold. This rare event happens once every 12 years. Know why this happens and how you can visit the city to witness this beauty.

Why has Munnar turned into blue and purple in September 2026?

The hills of Munnar have turned blue and purple because of the beautiful flowers called Neelakurinji, scientifically known as Strobilanthes kunthiana. These flowers are found only at high altitudes in the Western Ghats above 1500 metres.

What makes Neelakurinji rare is that they grow for 12 years and then all the plants bloom together at once, produce seeds, and die. This plant is also vulnerable due to habitat loss from invasive species and tourism.

A sight worth waiting 12 years for! 💜 The rare Neelakurinji is blooming again across the hills near Munnar, turning the Western Ghats into a spectacular carpet of purple. The last mass bloom was in 2014; the next is expected only in 2038.
Incredible India! 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/5NO5oR5Efy

— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) September 7, 2026

Best Places To See Neelakurinji In Munnar

Visit Chokramudi Hills and Korandakkad-Mattupetty hills, where the flowers are blooming right now.
Do not go to Eravikulam National Park if you plan on seeing Neelakurinji.

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How to visit Munnar during Neelakurinji bloom?

We have a guide on how to plan your visit to Munnar during this beautiful time of Neelakurinji bloom.

By road:

To visit Chokramudi Hills and Korandakkad-Mattupetty hills to see the Neelakurinji bloom, you can easily book buses and also private cars from the airport and railway station. Cars are usually stopped 1-2 km before the main site, and you have to take a jeep to reach there.

By air:

The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is around  110 km and 3.5 hrs drive to Munnar.

By train:

The nearest railway station is Aluva and Ernakulam, which are around 110 to 130 km away.

How to reach Munnar?

The nearest airport to reach Munnar is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is 105-110 km away and about 3.5 to 4 hours by road. The second option is Coimbatore Airport, which is 170 km away.

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By train:

Nearest railway stations are:

1. Aluva (AWY) 110 km
2. Ernakulam Jn (ERS) 130 km
3. Kottayam 150 km

By road:

1. Munnar is well connected, and you can take several routes. You can easily find buses and private cars as well.
2. Kochi to Perumbavoor to Kothamangalam to Adimali to Munnar is the best route.
3. If you are coming from Tamil Nadu, then the Madurai route will be preferable.

What is the best time to witness Neelakurinji bloom in Munnar?

The best time is September-October 2026 for witnessing Neelakurinji bloom in Munnar. Go early in the morning, from around 7 to 10 AM, for fewer crowds.

Is there any entry fee for Neelakurinji sightseeing in Munnar?

You can witness Neelakurinji bloom from the road as well. But the Chokramudi viewing gallery has a small entry fee of Rs 20-25.

Important Things To Know Before Visiting During The Bloom

1. It is a no-plastic zone, so remember not to carry any plastic bottles or covers.
2. Plucking, touching or sitting on the flowers are also prohibiting.
3. Stay on the designated trails only.
4. Drones are banned without permission.
5. Make sure to wear trekking shoes as it is an uphill walk.

Other Places To Visit During Your Munnar Trip

Apart from witnessing the Neelakurinji bloom, you can do several things during your trip and see the beauty of Kerala.
Visit Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Kundala Lake, Meesapulimala, Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Chinnakanal Waterfalls, Anamudi Shola National Park, among others.

Conclusion:

Seeing Neelakurinji bloom can be a once in a lifetime experience for you, as it will bloom next in 2038. Pack your bags and visit Munnar before the bloom fades away.  

(Image Credits: Pinterest)
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