About Place
- "Manchester of South India" – known for its extensive textile industry.
- "Gateway to the Nilgiris" – a starting point for travel to hill stations like Ooty.
- "City of Entrepreneurs" – a vibrant city with a thriving business community.
Reasons to Visit
- Natural Beauty and Climate : Nestled on the banks of the Noyyal River, Coimbatore enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The city is surrounded by the Western Ghats, offering stunning landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and trekking opportunities. Popular spots include Kovai Kuttralam Falls and the Siruvani Waterfalls.
- Cultural and Spiritual Richness : Coimbatore is home to several significant temples and spiritual centers. The Marudamalai Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is a major pilgrimage site. The city also hosts the Isha Yoga Center, known for its massive Adiyogi Shiva statue and serene surroundings, attracting visitors from around the world seeking spiritual enlightenment.
- Culinary Delights and Shopping : Coimbatore offers a unique culinary experience with its South Indian delicacies like dosas, idlis, and traditional Kongunadu cuisine. The city is also a shopper's paradise, with bustling markets and malls offering textiles, electronics, and local handicrafts. Cross-Cut Road and RS Puram are popular shopping destinations.
Visa
- India : Citizens from most countries require a visa to enter India. Tourists can apply for an e-Tourist Visa (e-TV), which allows for a stay of up to 60 days with double entry. The e-TV must be obtained prior to travel and is available to citizens from over 160 countries.
- USA and Europe : Citizens from the USA and most European countries can apply for the e-Tourist Visa online. The process usually takes about 3-5 working days.
- Asian Countries : Visa requirements vary, with some countries having visa-free agreements with India. Citizens of countries like Japan and South Korea can obtain a visa on arrival.
Travel Expenses
1. Travel to & from Coimbatore :
- Airfare : From New Delhi to Coimbatore - approx. $200 per person round trip.
- Total for two : $400
2. Hotel Cost :
- Average hotel cost : $50 per night
- Total stay for 3 nights for two : $150
3. Food Cost :
- Average meal cost per day : $20 per person
- Total for three days for two : $120
4. Activity Cost :
- Entry fees and transport for activities: $100
5. Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Rented car for 3 days : $150
Total Estimated Expense : $920
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Exploration
Upon arrival in Coimbatore, start your day with a visit to the Marudamalai Temple (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM), a scenic hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. For lunch, enjoy traditional Kongunadu cuisine at Annapoorna Gowrishankar. In the afternoon, explore the Gedee Car Museum (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM) to see a unique collection of vintage cars. Spend your evening shopping at Brookefields Mall (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM) before dining at Shree Anandhaas for a taste of South Indian thali.
Day 2 : Nature and Wellness
Begin your day early with a trip to the Siruvani Waterfalls (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM), known for its clear, sweet water. Return to the city for lunch at Sree Annapoorna Sree Gowrishankar, then head to the Isha Yoga Center (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM) to meditate and visit the iconic Adiyogi statue. For dinner, try the local delicacies at Hari Bhavanam.
Day 3 : Cultural Immersion
Start with a visit to the Perur Pateeswarar Temple (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM), one of the oldest temples in the region. After lunch at Annalakshmi Restaurant, spend the afternoon at the VOC Park and Zoo (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM). In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll at the TNAU Botanical Garden (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) before having dinner at The French Door Bistro & Kitchen.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
- Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
- Be cautious with food and water to avoid health issues.
- Use reputable transport services.
- Keep your belongings secure in crowded places.
- Stay informed about local customs and dress accordingly.
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Use ATMs in safe, well-lit locations.
- Stay updated on local news and weather.
Flights
- IndiGo : New Delhi to Coimbatore - approx. $100 one way.
- Air India : New Delhi to Coimbatore - approx. $120 one way.
- SpiceJet : New Delhi to Coimbatore - approx. $110 one way.
Hotels
- The Residency Towers
- Vivanta Coimbatore
- Fairfield by Marriott Coimbatore
- Zone By The Park
- WelcomHotel Coimbatore
Contacts
- Indian Embassy : +91-44-2857-4000
- Police : 100
- Ambulance : 108
- Firefighters : 101
Country
Closet Airport
- Coimbatore International Airport (CJB)
Nearest City
- Chennai
Heritage Sites
- Perur Pateeswarar Temple
Airlines
- IndiGo
- Air India
- SpiceJet
- Vistara
Currency
- Indian Rupee (INR)
Languages Spoken
- Tamil
- English
Real Story
The Industrial Revolution of Coimbatore :
Coimbatore's transformation into an industrial powerhouse is a fascinating tale of entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience. In the early 20th century, Coimbatore was primarily an agrarian society. However, the city’s favorable climate and the abundance of cotton led to the growth of the textile industry.
G.D. Naidu – The Edison of India :
One of the most significant figures in Coimbatore’s industrial history is G.D. Naidu. Born in 1893, Naidu was a visionary and an inventor, often referred to as the "Edison of India." He started his career as a taxi driver but quickly moved on to establish the first indigenous motor company in India, the Universal Motor Service, in 1936.
Naidu's contributions were not limited to the automotive industry. He also pioneered advancements in textile machinery, electrical appliances, and agriculture. His relentless pursuit of innovation earned him numerous patents and accolades, making him a legend in Coimbatore's industrial narrative.
Textile Industry Boom :
The establishment of the first textile mill in 1888 laid the foundation for Coimbatore's growth as the "Manchester of South India." The city soon became dotted with textile mills, producing high-quality cotton fabrics that were in demand both nationally and internationally. The industry's growth was fueled by the entrepreneurial spirit of local businessmen and the availability of skilled labor.
Post-Independence Development :
After India gained independence, Coimbatore’s industrial landscape expanded beyond textiles. The city became a hub for engineering industries, manufacturing a wide range of products from pumps and motors to automotive components. The establishment of educational institutions like PSG College of Technology and Coimbatore Institute of Technology provided the skilled workforce necessary for industrial growth.
Today, Coimbatore stands as a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of its people. It is not just an industrial city but also a center for education, healthcare, and technology.
Cuisine
Coimbatore's cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional Tamil Nadu flavors with a unique Kongunadu twist. The food here is characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients, aromatic spices, and a variety of cooking techniques. Here are some of the must-try dishes:
- Kari Dosa : This is a popular non-vegetarian dish that features a thick dosa topped with spicy minced meat. It's a favorite among meat lovers and is often enjoyed with chutneys and sambar.
- Kola Urundai : These are delicious, deep-fried meatballs made from minced meat, spices, and herbs. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer.
- Elaneer Payasam : A refreshing dessert made from tender coconut water, milk, and jaggery. It's a light and cooling dish, perfect for the warm climate of Coimbatore.
- Idiyappam and Coconut Milk : Also known as string hoppers, idiyappam is a traditional breakfast dish made from rice flour. It's typically served with sweetened coconut milk or a spicy curry.
- Pongal : A popular breakfast item, Pongal is a savory dish made from rice and lentils, flavored with black pepper, cumin, and ghee. It's often served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Kongunadu Chicken Fry : A spicy and flavorful chicken dish that is marinated with a special blend of Kongunadu spices and then fried to perfection.
Culture and History
Coimbatore, often called Kovai, is a city in Tamil Nadu, India, known for its rich culture, heritage, and industrial prowess. Situated on the banks of the Noyyal River and surrounded by the Western Ghats, Coimbatore is an amalgamation of tradition and modernity.
Cultural Heritage :
- Temples and Festivals : The city is home to several ancient temples, including the Marudamalai Murugan Temple, Perur Pateeswarar Temple, and the Eachanari Vinayagar Temple. Festivals like Pongal, Diwali, and Tamil New Year (Puthandu) are celebrated with great enthusiasm. The temple festivals, especially, are marked by elaborate rituals, traditional music, and dance performances.
- Art and Craft : Coimbatore has a thriving tradition of arts and crafts. The city is known for its exquisite bronze statues, traditional South Indian paintings, and intricate woodwork. The local artisans are skilled in making beautiful artifacts that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Textile Industry : Known as the "Manchester of South India," Coimbatore's textile industry has played a significant role in shaping its cultural landscape. The city's textile mills produce high-quality cotton fabrics, sarees, and garments that are famous across India and abroad.
- Educational and Literary Tradition : Coimbatore is also a hub for education and literature. The city has numerous educational institutions, including renowned engineering and management colleges. It has a vibrant literary scene with contributions to Tamil literature and poetry.
- Ancient Period : Coimbatore's history dates back to the Sangam Age (circa 300 BCE to 300 CE), when it was known as Kongunadu. The region was ruled by various dynasties, including the Cheras, Cholas, and Pandyas. It was an important center for trade and commerce, known for its rich agricultural produce and textiles.
- Colonial Era : During the British colonial period, Coimbatore emerged as a major industrial center. The establishment of the first textile mill in 1888 marked the beginning of its transformation into a textile hub. The city saw significant infrastructure development, including the construction of railways, which facilitated trade and industry.
- Post-Independence : After India gained independence in 1947, Coimbatore continued to grow as an industrial city. It became a center for engineering industries, manufacturing pumps, motors, and automotive components. The establishment of several educational institutions further contributed to its development.