Coimbatore

The third largest city of the state, Coimbatore, the headquarters of a district of the same name, is one of the most industrialised cities in Tamil Nadu. Known as the textile capital of South India or the Manchester of the South, the city is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal. Coimbatore existed even prior to the 2nd century AD as a small tribal village capital called Kongunad until it was brought under Chola control in the 2nd or 3rd century AD by Karikalan, the first of the early Cholas.

Among its other great rulers were the Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Pandyas, Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara kings. When Kongunad fell to the British along with the rest of the state, its name was changed to Coimbatore and it is by this name that it is known today, except in Tamil, in which it is called Kovai. Located in the shadow of the Western ghats, Coimbatore enjoys a very pleasant climate the year round, aided by the fresh breeze that flows in through the 25 kms long Palakkad gap.

The rich black soil of the region has contributed to Coimbatore's flourishing agriculture industry and, it is in fact that the successful growth of cotton that served as a foundation for the establishment of its famous textile industry. The first textile mills came up as far back as 1888 but there are now over a hundred mills. The result has been a strong economy and a reputation as one of the greatest industrial cities in South India. Coimbatore serves as an entry and exit point to neighbouring Kerala and the ever popular hill station of Udagamandalam(Ooty).

It is the disembarking point for those who want to take the Mountain train that runs from Mettupalayam, just 35 kms from Coimbatore. There are also regular bus services from Coimbatore to Ooty.


Places to See
» Perur Temple
This Temple is 7 kms from Coimbatore Railway Station and was constructed by Karikal Cholan over 1500 years ago. There are shrines to the presiding deity Patteeswarar and his consort Pachainayaki and some elegantly carved sculptures in the Kanagasabai hall. Devotees flock to this temple in hundreds during the Panguni Uthiram festival which is celebrated in March every year.

» Marudhamalai Temple
Dedicated to Lord Subramanya, this hilltop temple is one of the most visited temples in the region, the reason being that the residing deity Dandayuthapani is believed to have performed several miracles here. Thai Poosam and Tirukarthigai festivals are celebrated with great pomp and gaiety at this temple. Marudhamalai is 12 kms from the Railway Station.

» Agricultural University
One of the best institutions of its kind in South Asia, the Agricultural University was originally established as an Agriculture Farm in Saidapet, Chennai. The location was moved to Coimbatore in 1907 and the name was changed to Agricultural College which later, came to be known as the Agricultural University. It is 5 kms away from the Railway Station.

» V O C Park
Named after the freedom fighter V.O.Chidambaram, this park is maintained by the Corporation. There is a mini-zoo and joy train in the park.

» Forest College
One of the oldest institutions of its kind in the country, the Forest College is situated 3.5 kms. north of the Railway Station. The College Museum is worth a visit. It trains Forest rangers.

» G.D. Naidu Industrial Exhibition
The late Thiru G.D. Naidu was a born technocrat. He was a legend in his own lifetime. He had made invaluable contributions to automobile, electronics, mechanical and agricultural sectors. He had also established an Industrial Exhibition.

» Bhavani
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. Lord Sangameshwarer with His consort Vedanayaki is the presiding deity. It is said that during the East India Company regime the then 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.

» Vaideki Water Falls
It is located 30 kms. from Coimbatore via. Narasipuram village. It is a fine picnic spot for trekkers. A perrennial water falls is a major attraction here.

» Black Thunder
A water theme park named "Black Thunder" is located about 8 kms. from Mettupalayam - Ooty Ghat Road at the foot hills of Nilgiris. It is a fine amusement park and said to be the Asia's number one theme park. Numerous tourists are visiting this place.

Automobile Association of South India is in 242, Tiruchi Road, Coimbatore - 641 045, Phone No. 24294. More than seventy travel agents are available in the city mainly near Bus stand, Railway station and Trichy Road.







Coimbatore Tours Reservation Form