GUDALUR, NILGIRIS | August 12, 2026
The Nilgiris has turned into a sea of blue as the rare Neelakurinji flower blooms across parts of the Gudalur region. But tourists hoping to take home a souvenir have been issued a stern warning: do not pluck or damage the flowers.
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has restricted public access to several blooming areas, including parts of Nadugani, Gudalur, Oosimalai and O’Valley. Officials say the flower is protected and plucking it is a punishable offence.
The Neelakurinji, scientifically known as Strobilanthes kunthiana, is famous for its rare flowering cycle, with the spectacular bloom occurring roughly once every 12 years. The unusual sight has attracted large numbers of tourists and nature lovers to the Nilgiris.
Officials have warned visitors against entering restricted forest areas, not only to protect the fragile habitat but also because of increased wild-elephant movement in some of the blooming zones. Visitors can admire and photograph the flowers from permitted locations without disturbing them.
Under the applicable wildlife protection provisions, violations can reportedly attract a fine of up to ₹25,000 and/or imprisonment of up to three years, depending on the offence and legal provisions applied. The Forest Department has urged tourists to leave the rare flowers untouched and help preserve the natural spectacle for future generations.
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