ITP Indian Travel Places: Food, Travel, Tourism Business Events and Trade Shows
| Name: | Coimbatore – Manchester of South India |
| Location: | Coimbatore City, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Climate: | Summers: 40° C (Max), 25° C (Min) | Winters: 30° C (Max), 18° C (Min) |
| Best Time to Visit: | October to March |
| Nearest Airport: | Coimbatore Airport |
| Railway Station: | Coimbatore Junction and Podanur Junction Railway Station. |
| Must Visits: | Perur Patteeswarar Temple, Konniamman temple, Thandu Mariamman temple, Vazhai Thottathu Ayyan temple, Echanaari Ganesh temple, Karamadai temple, Marudamalai Murugan temple,Panchamuga Anjaneya Temple |
| Language Spoken: | Kongu Tamil, English |
| STD Code: | 0422 |
Coimbatore is a major commercial and industrial city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This city is also named as Kovai in its local language, Tamil. Coimbatore is sited on the banks of the Noyyal River and in about 500 km towards the southwest of state capital, Chennai. It comes under the administrative district of Coimbatore and is located close to the Siruvani Waterfalls. This city is renowned for being the textile and engineering hub of South India, and is thus often referred to as “the Manchester of South India”. Situated at an elevation of 398 m above the average sea level, the city has a tropical wet and dry climate, with moderate summers and winters, and average annual rainfall of 700 mm. In fact, Coimbatore has the most pleasant and decent climate round the year, unlike the high temperatures of other south Indian cities.
Coimbatore has been a part of many ancient dynasties and empires in its glorious history. The ancient name of it was Kongu Nadu, and during the 10th century, it was conquered by medieval Cholas. In 12th Century CE, it was ruled by Irulas (Tribe), whose tribal chief Kovan named this city on his name. By the 15th century, it was taken over by Vijayanagara reign and in 1550, it was overtaken by military governors (Telugu speaking Nayakars). Though Nayaks divided the region in to 24 Palayams, through the years of 1623-1672, Coimbatore was a matter of territorial dispute between the Thanjavur Nayaks and Madurai Nayaks. During 18th century, this region came under the control of the Kingdom of Mysore, which was later conquered by British East India Company and made a part of Madras Presidency in 1799. The region experienced a textile boom in the year 1920-1930 and also played a very significant role in Indian Independence movement.
Coimbatore has evolved as a prominent industrialized city with textile factories, engineering firms, automobile parts manufacturers, health care facilities and technical educational institutions. The district also houses the country’s largest amount of hosiery and poultry industries. There are some famous hill stations (Ooty, Coonoor and Valparai) in the vicinity of this city and thus, many visitors and tourist travel to Coimbatore, throughout the year. There are numerous temples in and around the city, including the Perur Patteeswarar Temple, Konniamman temple, Thandu Mariamman temple, Vazhai Thottathu Ayyan temple, Echanaari Ganesh temple, Karamadai temple, Marudamalai Murugan temple,Panchamuga Anjaneya Temple (Hanuman with 5 Faces) and the Dhyanalinga Yogic Temple, where you can feel the essence of ancient architecture and culture.
Best Time To Visit Coimbatore
Coimbatore city, strewn with textile shops, business centers and various places of interest, is fast growing to be a tourist hotspot. The cosmopolitan land, also known as ‘Manchester of South India’, attracts scores of visitors throughout the year. Peacefully lying at the foothills of the Nilgiris, the town is dotted with umpteen attractions like Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Siruvani Waterfalls, Marudhamalai Hill Temple and lots more. The mind-boggling flora and fauna of the city is another added attraction of the place. Weather is one of the important factors that we strongly consider or make a query about whenever we choose to travel to any destination. As Coimbatore is endowed with a pleasant weather all around the year, it can be visited at any point of time. However the most favorable months to make a visit to Coimbatore is between December and March. To get a better insight into the seasons of Coimbatore and to know the best time to visit the city, scroll down the article further.
When To Go To Coimbatore
Summer:
Though summers are bearable in Coimbatore, the scorching heat can sometimes turn out to be a big pain and can compel you to stay indoors, especially during the noon. The maximum temperature here can go up to 35° C during the peak summer months while the minimum can hover around 21° C. March, April and May are the summer months in Coimbatore. Though the period is characterized by sweltering heat, the cool evening wind ameliorates the hot spell and offers immense relief to the people here. Summer is not the best time to hit Coimbatore. However, if you plan to visit the city during the summers, then carry enough light cottons and loads of sunscreen to prevent your skin from getting tanned.
Monsoon:
The monsoon hits Coimbatore in the month of October and lasts until November. The monsoon months are marked by frequent roaring cloudburst. However, the showers here is a respite from the blazing summer heat. The scent of wet drenched mud and lush greenery speckled with rain drops doubles up the beauty of the place. The average rainfall received by the land during the time of monsoon is around 61cm.
Winter:
December marks the onset of winter season that lasts until February. The winter temperature is hardly ever cold with an average temperature of 15° C. Winter is an ideal time to visit Coimbatore since the weather is mild and pleasant during this time. However, the nights can get a bit chilly and thus, it is advisable to carry a lot of woolens to prevent shuddering chills.
Opting For Your Favorite Season:
The best time to visit Coimbatore is between the months of December to March when the climate is soothing and finely balanced. There are many lodges and good hotels providing excellent lodging facilities. So, visitors need not worry about accomodation here. Within the city, there are various local transportation like buses, rickshaws and taxis plying frequently. Most of the local inhabitants speak in Tamil and know English too. People visiting the city in the month of March must make sure to witness the grand Koniamman Car festival that takes place every year. The other celebrated events of Coimbatore are Tamil New Year (April), Aadiperuku (August) and Diwali (October).
History Of Coimbatore
Coimbatore is not just a mere province in the Kongu area but also the birth place of the Cholas. The history of the city dates back to the 12th century, when the region was ruled by the aboriginal Irula tribe, before the place was seized by the Chola Empire. The Kongu area served as the parliament of the Chola kings until the 9th century. During the later years, the place became the hub for many cultural activities in the region. With its stunning shrines, amazing architecture and literary feats, the city soon became a popular attraction for the royalties. By the medieval period, the city underwent a power struggle. The Cheras, the Pandyas and the Cholas did their best to dominate the region. When the Pandya kings lost their power to the Vijayanagar kings, the lost fame and glory of the city was restored. However, the stronghold of the Vijayanagar Empire was short lived. Soon Coimbatore was yet again amidst a political war between the Mysore Kings and the British Raj. To know a detail account on the interesting tale of Coimbatore’s history, scroll down.
Coimbatore History
Ancient Period:
Coimbatore has an early history that still remains a mystery to the historians and the epigraphist. Although there is not much information available on the prior history of the original settlers, it’s assumed that Coimbatore was once home to the Irula tribe, who dominated this part of the territory during the 12th century. Soon the Irula clan lost its independence to the powerful Chola Empire. Coimbatore was ruled by Kulothunga Chola. His kingdom comprised of parts of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. During his reign, the place was commonly referred to as Kongu Nadu or Chola Nadu. Under the rule of the Chola kings, the city reached great heights.
Medieval Period:
During the medieval period, the Kongu province was dominated by several dynasties like the Cheras and the Pandyas. By the 9th and the 10th century, Kongu had reached the pinnacle in the field of art and culture with beautiful temples being built in the Chola style of architecture. Popular literary works were also composed during this time such as ‘Perumkatai’, ‘Purap-porul’ and ‘Venbamalai’. In the medieval period, the Chola kings lost their control over the region. They were overthrown by the Chera monarchs who governed the place for almost 300 years, after which the dynasty declined. Soon the Pandya rulers annexed the city of Kongu. However, their rule was short lived as the Vijayanagar rulers started to extend their boundaries and eventually captured the Kongu region. By the 15th century, major sections of the city slipped into the hands of the Viyayanagar kings. In 1550, under the rule of Vijayanagar kings, the Kongu town was populated to a large extent by large groups of settlers from Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Once the power of the Vijayanagar dynasty began to weaken in the region, the city saw a shift in the local governance. The Madurai Nayaks took over the administration and introduced the ‘Palaiyakkarar system’. The Palaiyakkarar system introduced feudal system in the territory. From 1623 to 1672, the city staged the internal political differences between the Thanjavur and Madurai Nayaks.
British Raj:
Soon after the decline of the Vijayanagar Empire in the 17th century, Coimbatore came under the dominance of the Kings of Mysore. Hyder Ali and his son Tipu took over Coimbatore and ruled the territory until the 18th century. With the advent of the 18th century, the East Indian Company became the undisputed lord of this region. Tipu Sultan was overthrown by the British in the fourth Anglo-Mysore War and the city soon amalgamated under the Madras Presidency. During this time, Coimbatore had already started its very own Quit India movement when Dheeran Chinnamalai started a campaign against the British India. The Polygar War was fought between Polyars and the British Raj. The war began on March 1799 but did not end soon as the Polyar warriors refused to give up their ongoing protest against the British. In May 1802, the British army took control of the region by seizing all anti-British activities in the area. During freedom struggle the city took active part in the country’s independence.
How To Reach
The land of the Dravidians, Coimbatore is the best place to experience century old culture merged with modern influences. Coimbatore is a charming peaceful town that bustles with activity throughout the year. The city does have a reputation for being highly industrious and is often flocked by traders and tourists. Travelers from around the sub-continent visit Coimbatore to explore its historical attractions. Perur Pateeswarar Temple, Konniamman Temple, Thandu Mariamman Temple, Vazhai Thottathu Ayyan Temple, Echanaari Ganesh Temple, Marudhamalai Murugan Temple, Panchamuga Anjaneya Temple are some of the popularly visited shrines in the city. While you are in the city, make sure to sample the local cuisine. As most parts of South India is blessed with acres and acres of paddy fields, it’s quite obvious that rice is the staple diet in Coimbatore. The locals here are relatively friendly and will guide you across the city. Coimbatore is well developed and is the second most important city in Tamil Nadu. Hence, it is blessed with good infrastructure facilities and can be easily reached. Read the article below to find out the best suitable transport option to reach Coimbatore.
Traveling To Coimbatore
By Air:
The Coimbatore airport is located at Peelamedu, which is 11 km away from the city. Coimbatore also has an air-force base at Sulur that is located 15 km away from the city centre. There are several domestic carriers that fly to Coimbatore. Some of the prominent airlines operating from Coimbatore are Air India, Go Air, Indigo, Jet Airways, Jet Lite, Kingfisher etc. These flights are well connected to metros like Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore as well as other important cities. The Coimbatore airport operates both domestic and international flights. There are also many international air carriers that are well connected to global destinations like Singapore and Sharjah.
By Rail:
The city of Coimbatore got its first railway station in the year 1872. Coimbatore currently has three different railway stations namely, Coimbatore Junction, Coimbatore North Junction and Podanur Junction. The Coimbatore railway lines are well connected to different cities in the country such as Chennai, Bangalore, New Delhi, Mumbai, Howrah, Ernakulam, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Rajkot, Indore, Ahmedabad, Jammu and Patna.
By Road:
The city of Coimbatore has good infrastructure and the roads connecting to this metro are well maintained and in good condition. There are three main national highways such as NH 47, NH 67, NH 209 that are used to commute in and around the city. Due to a good number of national highways that connect to this city, Coimbatore is easily accessible and has less traffic congestion too. There are several bus services that commute to other major cities and the nearby towns such as Salem, Erode, Tirupur, Madurai, Tirchy, Palani and many other smaller districts in the region. Getting a bus to Coimbatore is easy and the fares of these buses are very nominal. If you don’t want to travel by bus, then you can always commute by taxis that are easily available in the region.
Places To See
Coimbatore, famously known as the ‘Manchester of South India’, is an important town in Tamil Nadu. The visually tantalizing natural splendors are a must-see here if you are planning an itinerary to this wonderful land. Not just the exotic temples, ample number of good picnic spots and waterfalls that are scattered in and around the city promises a fun time to the travelers. Once you land in Coimbatore, you don’t need to hunt for mineral bottles since the city is well-stocked with Siruvani water, one of the world’s best tasting water. Foodies can try a wide range of South Indian dishes whipped by some of the well-known restaurants housed here. The tour to Coimbatore doesn’t just end with food and sightseeing as there are tons of things waiting to be unraveled by the tourists here. Know more about the top tourist attractions in Coimbatore by scrolling down the write-up further.
Tourist Attractions In Coimbatore
Perur Patteeswara Swamy Temple:
Perur Temple, located 7km off Coimbatore Railway Station, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shrine built over 1500 years ago attracts tourists and religious devotees from different parts of India. During the time of Panguni Uthiram event that takes place in March every year, pilgrims flock here in huge numbers. The sculptural work of the shrine is rich and decorative. ‘Kanaka Sabha’, the golden hall where you can see the gold plated statue of Lord Nataraja is the major attraction here. There are many local buses and auto rickshaws plying regularly from the main city to the temple.
Siruvani Waterfalls:
Siruvani waterfalls, situated 37km west of Coimbatore, is a great picnic spot. The falls set amidst lush greenery is pleasing to the senses. However after 5 PM, the falls close down for the visitors since the place is positioned in the center of a dense forest. Besides admiring the scenic views, you should also gulp down the water, which is extremely sweet in its taste and is believed to have been bestowed with mineral properties.
VOC Park And Zoo:
Another interesting place to check out if you are in Coimbatore is the VOC Park and Zoo. The picturesque spot named after the renowned freedom fighter V. O. Chidambaram enthralls people of all ages with its unique attractions. While children can enjoy a ride in the colorful toy train and try other fun rides, the young and the adults can check out the aquarium, mini zoo, models of pre-historic dinosaurs and a wide range of flora.
Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary:
Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary aka Indian Gandhi National Park has a wonderful assortment of both flora and fauna. Opt for exciting elephant or jeep safari to come face-to-face with wildlife species like jackal, pangolin, gaur, tiger, sloth bear, wild bear, porcupine, flying squirrel, civet cat and lots more. Budding ornithologists can get a closer view of interesting birds like spotted dove, re-whiskered bulbul, rocket-tailed drongo, black-headed oriole etc.
Marudhamalai Temple:
Marudhamalai Temple, devoted to Lord Subramanya, is a revered site for the Hindus. Set atop Marudhamalai Hills, the pilgrimage spot is located 12km away from the Coimbatore Railway Station. The temple is thrown open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM. During the times of special occasions like Thai Poosam and Tirukarhtikai, the whole place is decorated and pujas are conducted.
Agriculture University:
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, which is considered to be one of the best institutions in South Asia, is located 5km away from Coimbatore Railway Station. Within the university premises, there is a beautiful botanical garden that has a mind-blowing array of plants and trees. The building is huge and the entrance is adorned with lush green lawns.
Adiyogi Shiva Statue:
The Adiyogi statue is a 34-metre tall (112 ft), 45-metre long (147 ft) and 25-metre wide (82 ft) steel statue of Shiva with Thirunamam at Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. It is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the “Largest Bust Sculpture” in the world. Designed by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, the founder and head of the Isha Foundation, the statue weighs around 500 tonnes (490 long tons; 550 short tons).
Adiyogi refers to Shiva (Shankara) as the first yogi. It was established to inspire people towards inner well-being through yoga.
Adiyogi is located at the Isha Yoga Center. Its height, 112 ft, symbolizes the 112 possibilities to attain to moksha (liberation) that are mentioned in yogic culture, and also the 112 chakras in the human system. A linga called Yogeshwar Linga was consecrated and placed in front of the statue. The Indian Ministry of Tourism has included the statue in its official Incredible India campaign. It is also the venue of a light and sound show on Shiva as a yogi, inaugurated by the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind.
Shopping
Coimbatore may not be the best destination for shopping in South India but it is certainly a one-of-its-kind of shopping hub. Popularly known for its cotton spinning units and highly mechanized engineering plants, the commercial houses within the city has quite an exciting array of things to offer to the first time shoppers. The bustling city of Coimbatore, despite of being a commercial hub, has managed to retain its traditional cultures that can be well perceived in the local knick-knacks found in the region. The shops here deals in best quality fabrics like light crispy cotton and soft smooth silk that are must-buy items of this place. Apart from its splendid collection of textile, you can also shop for handicraft products, cheese, sweets and jewelry items while you are in the city. The most common shopping areas in Coimbatore are Raja Street, Sukravar Pettai, Oppanakkara Street, Raja Street, Avinashi Road and Big Bazaar Street. Scroll down the article to know more about the shopping places in Coimbatore.
Shopping Places In Coimbatore
Cross-Cut Road:
Situated in the city of Coimbatore, Cross-Cut Road is one of the main shopping hub in the city. The place is chock-a-block with textile and jewelry retail shops. For those looking to splurge in casual cotton or khadi fabrics or even the rich golden weaves of Kanchivaram, Banarasi or other designer saris, the streets of cross-cut road is the right place to delve in. Jewelry showrooms like Thulasi Jewellers & Diamond, Sri Ram Maruthy Jewellers and Shri Arthi Jewellers are the best place to splurge in exquisite gold and diamond jewelry. Cross-cut road also has a number of textile shops that sells beautiful variety of multi-colored saris. The right place to look for such vibrantly hued saris while you are in the crosscut road is at Mahaveers, Roopsagar and Royal Garments. The showrooms have a nice collection of saris in different fabrics.
D.B. Road:
If you are a brand conscious person, then visit D.B.Road, the hub of several international brands. The place has several global retail outlets that have sprung up within a short span of time. Some of the leading brands that you can find on this street are Lee, Arrow, United Colors of Benetton, Levis Reebok, Adidas, Puma, Crocodile etc, which are popular among the local people of Coimbatore. Although the local folks do not have an extreme fondness for brands, Coimbatore is doing its best at setting in a cosmopolitan atmosphere in the city.
R.S. Puram:
Apart from its silk and jewelry, the city is also well known for manufacturing fresh and processed food items. The city has large number of food units that cater to the growing demand of canned food products. Nilgiris is a leading and popular retail outlet located on R.S. Puram that sells some of the best fresh and high quality edible items. While you are in the super mart, take a quick peek at the shelves that consist of frozen and tinned items along with an amazing variety of cheese such as Gouda, Colby, Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Havarti, Feta, Haloumi and Camembert. So, the next time you are in the city and want to shop for a few food produces, you know where to exactly find them.
Trichy Road:
Trichy road in Coimbatore is a great place to stop by and fulfill your sweet craving. The Shri Krishna sweets located on Trichy road is a nice little eatery that sells a variety of saccharine items. The famous ‘Mysurp’ sweet made out of lentil and margarine can be found here. Apart from the sweets, the shop also has a variety of salty and spicy treats to nibble on.
