National Park

 

Neelakurunji, Nilgiri Tahr and Eravikulam National Park

Nilgiri Tahr ont he slopes with Neelakurinji bloom int he foreground

"Earth laughs in flowers" - Ralph Waldo Emerson

And her this laugh takes twelve years to bloom! Well, I am talking about Neelakurinji- a flower endemic to Southern Western Ghats which blooms every twelve years. Like many others I too was very curious to witness this enigmatic beauty of the rolling hills of Munnar carpeted with bluish purple flowers. Sometimes reality bites! Well, I saw the blooms but no carpets, more tourists in bright colored clothes than flowers! The recent torrential rains, floods might have to be blamed for the damage to the soil, shrubs and the buds. 

Neelakurinji Bloom on the slopes of Eravikulam National Park

Not only for neelakurinji, Eravikulam National Park is also home for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The sight of these wild goats grazing in the fields of blue flowers is a sight to behold. But, the crowds disturb the animals in a frenzy to take selfies with the animal. On the way to the park or around the area keep an eye on the trees. You might spot a Nilgiri Langur perched on the higher branches. This old world monkey too has made it into the endangered list of primates. Their black fur shines in the sun and they have a light brown hood.

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Don't just look for flowers and spend time on taking selfies. There is much more in this park if you are a nature lover. If looked closely you might spot some colorful endemic birds like Kerala Laughingthrush, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Nilgiri Pipit, Nilgiri Blue Robin and wood pigeons. Nilgiri Pipit is an endangered species too! If lucky enough you might spot a rare and elusive Nilgiri Marten. For this you might need a VIP pass to venture into the interiors of tea garden area. 

Gravel Point in the interiors of Rajamalai

Eravikulam National Park earlier also known as Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is located 15KM from the popular hill staion Munnar. To avoid the crowds visit the park on non-weekends. On weekends reach early when the park opens at 8 AM. Tickets/permits can be booked online to save time and avoid lines at the gate. 

Tea Gardens on Rajamalai

Do not pluck the flowers or uproot the shrubs, they won't survive in the hot cities. Do not harm the tahrs, it is the only home they have. Take home memories and leave only footprints!

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