The hills of Chokramudy near Munnar, usually quiet and remote, have been buzzing with unusual activity this week. Thousands of tourists flocked to witness a spectacular natural event: the blooming of Neelakurinji flowers, which paint the landscape purple once every twelve years. But this surge of interest came at a cost.
On Saturday, the Revenue department dropped a firm order: no more unauthorized vehicles or visitors on this fragile land. The move comes just days after the Forest department opened the hills to the public on August 24, triggering a rush of off-road vehicles charging across government-held terrain.
Why the Sudden Ban?
According to officials, the area—Survey No. 36—was reclaimed from encroachers just last year. It’s now under government possession, and the delicate Neelakurinji plants have flourished across these slopes. But tires, trampling, and unchecked human presence threaten their survival.
Unregulated vehicle access poses a serious threat to the fragile Neelakurinji plants on the hills, warned officials. The order makes it clear: entering without permission isn’t just discouraged—it’s a punishable offense.
What the Order Says
The Bison Valley Village Officer’s directive leaves little room for interpretation. “All entry through the revenue land is banned with immediate effect,” it states, citing Sections 7 and 12 of the Kerala Land Conservancy Act. That means no private vehicles, no off-road joyrides, no general visitors—unless they have prior approval.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Forest Dept. opens hills | August 24, 2026 |
| Revenue Dept. issues ban | August 29, 2026 |
It’s a classic clash between wonder and conservation. The flowers draw crowds in awe of nature’s calendar; the government must now protect that very wonder from being loved to death.
This reporting is based on official statements and does not constitute travel or legal advice.
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