Things to know about the Rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once in every 12 years

New Delhi: Pictures of a rare type of flower Neelakurinji that blossoms once in every 12 years were shared online. The photos of these rare flowers blossoming are from Karnataka’s Mandalapatti hill.

As these photos made it to the internet here are some of the main things that you must know about these flowers.

How does it get its name?

The flower gets its name because of its appearance, Neela meaning blue and Kurinji meaning flower in the local language. The seeds of the shrub sprout according to its intervals and continue the cycle of life and death. A symbol of rich biodiversity, the Neelakurinji is one of the most awaited natural wonders that attract environmentalists and people from across India and around the world.

Native to the Shola forest in the Western Ghats

With 46 species of Kurinjis found in India, the Neelakurinji is native to the Shola forest of the Western Ghats. The Sholas are tropical mountain forests in the valleys of South India amidst the rolling grasslands. As part of the princess hills of Kodaikanal, the Shola forest now has patches of blue with the Neelakurinji in bloom. Nested between the Shola forest of the Palani Hills is the luxury heritage property of The Tamara Kodai that features the Neelakurinji luxury suite that overlooks the hills covered in clouds.

The local age calculator

The first settlers of Kodaikanal, the Paliyan and Puliyan tribe are believed to have used the Neelakurinji blooming cycle to calculate their age. With every new bloom the members of the tribe added 12 years to their age.

The best place to stay

The blue blossoms can be widely found on the slopes of the Pambar Forest, A 30-minute trek from The Tamara Kodai through the dense rainbow forest that opens up to the breathtaking view of the blue slopes of the Neelakurinji. With a trail through waterfalls and tiny streams, this walk makes for the perfect morning hike.

With just a hike away The Tamara Kodai, a 160-year-old restored monastery property makes for the best place to stay on your visit to Kodai for the Neelakurinji. The Tamara located in located in the lap of nature creates a perfect getaway for the guests with in-house facilities that include a dining restaurant, a bistro, a ballroom, spa, fitness centre, swimming pool and a pool lounge.