Coimbatore is the second largest city in the southern state of Tamilnadu. Coimbatore is a fast growing city and is an industrial hub. This city is also referred to as Manchester of the South because of the presence of large number of textile industries here. Coimbatore is also known for its automobile spare parts manufacturing and engineering firms.
Coimbatore is located on the banks of the Noyyal River and its history dates back to the 2nd century AD during which it was a small tribal village called as Kongunad. It was brought under the control of Cholas by the first of the early Cholas, Karikalan. The city was subsequently ruled by Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Pandyas, Vijayanagara dynasties as well as the British.
The city enjoys a pleasant weather throughout the year and attracts many tourists. There are several great places to visit in and around the city.
Perur temple
Perur Shiva temple is located in a small town of Perur situated about 6 km from Coimbatore. The deity in the shrine is called as Patteeswaras and His Consort, Pachai Nayaki and this temple is located on the banks of Noyyal River. Patteswaran temple was built by Karikal Cholan, 1500 Years ago. This magnificent temple is famous for its intricately carved sculptures. The highlight of this temple is the Golden Hall which has a gold plated statue of Nataraja.
Marudamalai hill temple
It is located 12 kms from Coimbatore. Maruthamalai has got its name from marutha trees which are found in large number here. The temple is dedicated to 'Lord Subramanya'.
TamilNadu Agriculture University
It is one of the best institutions of its kind in South Asia. The main attraction in this prominent research institute is the Botanical Garden.
Kutrallam
This water fall is 37 km. from Coimbatore. This beautiful waterfall is located in the midst of dense forest is known for its magnificent beauty.
Siruvani Waterfalls and dam
Siruvani falls and dam is situated some 37 kilometres to the west of Coimbatore city. The water from Siruvani water falls is the chief source of water to Coimbatore city. This scenic falls and dam offer an enchanting view.
Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is about 90 kms from Coimbatore. This Sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 1,400 metres in the Western Ghats. Spread across an area of 958 sq. km the sanctuary is home to wide variety of flora and fauna. The Amaravathy reservoir in the Anamalais has a large number of crocodiles.
Bhavani
The place is famous for the Sangameshwarar temple which is situated at the confluence of the rivers Bhavani and the Cauvery. The presiding deity here is Lord Sangameshwarer with His consort Vedanayaki. This place is an important pilgrim centre and is also called as "Tiruveni of South India".
Monkey Falls
It is situated some 65 kilometres away from Coimbatore city. The place is a famous tourist attraction known for its scenic beauty.
Black Thunder
This theme park is located on the foot hills of Nilgiri hills about 8 kms from Mettupalayam - Ooty Ghat Road. It is one of the famous amusement parks in Coimbatore district.
Forest College
Forest College is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in India. The museum here displays many interesting items like different minerals, rocks, pests, snakes, insects etc.
VOC Park and Zoo
The park is named after the famous freedom fighter 'V. O. Chidambaram'. The main attractions within the park include the aquarium, a mini zoo and a toy train.
Apart from this there are many other places worth visiting like Thirumurthy Dam, Vaideki Water Falls, Madhumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Islam Safia Jamath Mosque, Dhyanalinga Yogic Temple, St Antony's Church, Amaravathy Reservoir etc.
How to reach Coimbatore
Coimbatore junction is a major railway station in Southern railways and is well connected by trains from all the major cities in India. Coimbatore Airport known as Peelamedu Airport is about 10 kilometers from the center of the city. The city is well connected by road to all the major cities in Tamilnadu and the neighboring states. State road transport corporations of Tamilnadu and Kerala operate many bus services from Coimbatore to many cities and towns of both the states.
Accommodation
The city has a wide variety of accommodation options catering to different budgets. Tourists can choose from number of deluxe, mid rung as well as budget hotels.