Exploring Coimbatore
Overview of Coimbatore
Coimbatore is one of the fastest growing and the second largest city of Tamil Nadu. Coimbatore is often referred to as 'The Manchester of South' because of its ever growing textile industry.It is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal. Coimbatore shares the border with Kerala.This city is a perfect destination for spending a vacation because of its wonderful picturesque places.Coimbatore is the largest producer of cotton textiles in India and proves to be a splendid hub for shopping for textiles. The rich black alluvial soil of the region is suitable for growing cotton, and this has led to the success of the textile industry in Coimbatore.
History of Coimbatore
The history of Coimbatore dates back to 2nd Century A.D.In early days it was called as 'Kongunad', a small tribal village. It was inhabited by tribes, the most predominant among them being the Kosars who are reported to have had their headquarters at Kosampathur which probably later became the present Coimbatore.Later it was ruled by RashtraKutas,and from the region fell into the hands of the Cholas who were in prominance at the time of Raja Raja Chola.On the decline of Cholas the Kongu territory was occupied by the Chalukyas and later it was occupied by the Pandyas and Cysalas.By the early 14th century the region was ruled by the Muslim rulers of Madurai under the Delhi Sultanate.The Muslim rule in Madurai ended in the late 14th century by the newly formed Vijayanagara Empire.
Coimbatore played a prominent role in the Second Poligar War against the British in 1801. In 1804 Coimbatore was established as a capital for the newly formed Coimbatore district and in 1848, it was accorded the municipality status.
Sightseeing in Coimbatore
This Sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 1,400 metres in the Western Ghats near Pollachi (about 90 kms. from Coimbatore). The area of the sanctuary is 958 sq. kms. It has various kinds of fauna like elephant, gaur, tiger, panther, sloth bear, deer, wild bear, wild dog, porcupine, flying squirrel, jackal, pangolin, civet cat and birds like rocket-tailed drongo, re-whiskered bulbul, black headed oriole, tree pie, spotted dove, green pigeon, etc. The Amaravathy reservoir in the Anamalais has a large number of crocodiles. There are also many places of scenic beauty such as Karainshola, Anaikunthi shola, grass hills, waterfalls, groves, teak forests, estates, dams and reservoirs.
Marudamalai Temple is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage destination in Tamil Nadu.It is situated at a distance of 12km from Coimbatore..This temple is dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya.Piligrims from all over the India visit the temple, especially during he famous festival Thai Possam and Thirukarthigai Festival.These festivals are celebrated here with huge enthusiasm and gala.
It is located at a distance of 37 kms from Coimbatore.The water of Siruvani is known for its minerals and taste. The panoramic view of the dam and the falls are of enchanting beauty.The local belief is that the water has miraculous healing powers.
It is situated in the town of Perur.It is located at a distance of 6km from Coimbatore.This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the major pilgrimage centers in Tamilnadu.This splendid structure built during the reign of Karikala Chola.It is situated near the Noyyal river.Perur Patteeswaraswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and its main attraction is 'Kanaka Sabha'.
It is situated at a distance of 40 km from Coimbatore.Black Thunder Amusement Park is considered among the best amusement parks in Asia for its location amidst scenic surroundings and the variety of rides it offers.
The Sangameshwarar temple at Bhavani is situated at the confluence of the rivers Bhavani and the Cauvery. This place is called as "Tiruveni of South India". It is an important pilgrim centre.It is said that during the East India Company regime the Collector of Coimbatore and Salem Districts, William Garrow, who had his headquarters at Bhavani, worshipped the Goddess Vedanayaki. One night the Goddess directed him in his dream to vacate his bungalow immediately. The moment he vacated, the entire bungalow collapsed.In reverence of this miracle, he presented to the temple an ivory cradle, which is still in the temple with his signature.
This park is named after the freedom fighter V.O.Chidambaram.It is the most appropriate place to go with children.The park houses mini Zoo,models of prehistoric dinosaurs, Children' Train, Swing, Slider, Seesaw and other play equipment.It is more like an amusement park for the children.
Fairs and Festivals
Kundam Thiru Vizha is the annual temple festival held at Masani Amman Kovil located about 45kms from Coimbatore. This festival is celebrated for 18 days.
The airport is located 12 kilometers from the city.Regular flights operated by many airlines connect Coimbatore to Mumbai and the major cities of South India .
Coimbatore is connected to rest of India through two major railways stations namely Coimbatore Junction and Coimbatore North Railway Station.
Coimbatore is connected by well maintained and safe roads with Bangalore (363 kms), Chennai (526 kms), Madurai(226 kms), Ooty (89 kms), Trichy (203 kms) and other cities in the neighboring states.
Plan your visit
A useful journey leaves room for local discoveries. Start with these essentials, then verify operational details from primary sources.
Pick a few nearby cities or landmarks rather than trying to cover a whole state in one short trip.
Compare temperature, rainfall and festival periods for the specific part of the region you will visit.
Include time for food, museums, crafts and the places that matter to local communities.
Confirm transport, permits, accommodation and opening dates directly from reliable sources.
Photos and places to remember
More journeys to discover
Frequently asked questions
What is Coimbatore known for?
Coimbatore is explored in this guide through its local heritage, visitor attractions, culture and images. The highlights and linked articles below offer starting points for your itinerary.
How should I plan a first visit to Coimbatore?
Choose a few nearby highlights in Coimbatore, group them by area and allow flexibility for travel, meals and rest. Confirm the latest access information with official providers.
When is the best time to visit Coimbatore?
The most comfortable time depends on local weather, festivals and your planned activities. Check current seasonal forecasts and any attraction-specific closure notices for Coimbatore.
Where can I confirm ticket prices and opening times in Coimbatore?
Check the official tourism authority or the individual venue before departure. This page intentionally does not repeat potentially outdated prices or hours.
Is this Coimbatore guide updated?
This page was rebuilt from legacy IndiaCityTrip content on October 23, 2026. Older descriptive material has been reorganized; operational details still require direct verification.