Coimbatore

Coimbatore - Introduction to city Coimbatore - In Tamil Nadu

  • Area: 105.60 sq. km
  • Population: 8,16,321
  • Altitude: 43.2 m above sea level
  • Languages Spoken: Tamil, English
  • STD Code: 0422
  • Best Time to Visit: December to March

Introduction to the City

Located in the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills, Coimbatore is an industrial city in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Known as the "Manchester of South India," Coimbatore is a major textile-manufacturing center with over a hundred textile mills in and around the city. The city also has a thriving manufacturing industry producing engineering equipment and electronic items.

Coimbatore's history dates back to before the 2nd century AD when it was a small tribal village called Kongunad. Over the centuries, it was ruled by several great dynasties, including the Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Pandyas, Hoysalas, and the Vijayanagara kings. The city's name was changed to Coimbatore when Kongunad fell to the British along with the rest of Tamil Nadu.

The city's proximity to the Nilgiri hills gives it a pleasant climate that is cooler than the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu. Summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 39°C, while winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C. Coimbatore experiences its rainy season during October-November, brought on by the retreating monsoons.

Sightseeing: Places to Visit in Coimbatore

Coimbatore, nestled in the shadows of the Western Ghats and blessed with a pleasant climate year-round, is one of South India's interesting tourist spots. The city boasts diverse flora and fauna and is home to magnificent temples. It is also a rich agricultural area, hosting one of the major agricultural universities in the country. Key attractions include:

  • VOC Park: A popular park in the city, ideal for relaxation.
  • Perur Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • Marudhamalai Temple: A hilltop temple known for its spiritual significance.
  • Forest College: A renowned institution with beautiful surroundings.

Excursions: Places Nearby Coimbatore

The areas around Coimbatore also offer interesting tourist destinations, with serene natural surroundings, picturesque locales, and diverse fauna. Popular excursion spots include:

  • Siruvani Waterfalls: A scenic waterfall known for its pristine beauty.
  • Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary: A sanctuary home to a variety of wildlife species.
  • Thirumoorthy Temple: A temple located near a picturesque reservoir.
  • Bhavani: A town known for its ancient temples and rivers.

Coimbatore also serves as an entry and exit point to neighboring Kerala and the popular hill station of Udhagamandalam (Ooty).