Coimbatore is the third largest city of the Tamilnadu state of India. As one of the most industrialized cities in Tamilnadu, Coimbatore is known as the textile capital of South India or the Manchester of the South India.
Situated on the banks of river Noyyal, Coimbatore existed even prior to the 2nd or 3rd century AD, ruled by Karikalan, the first of the early Cholas. Among its other great rulers were 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 rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, Coimbatore enjoys a very pleasant climate all the year round swept by the fresh breeze that flows through the 25 km long Palakkad gap. The rich black soil of the region has contributed to Coimbatore's flourishing agriculture industry and, it is in fact the cause for the successful growth of cotton that served as a foundation for the establishment of its famous textile industry. The first textile mill 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 neighboring Kerala and the ever-popular hill station of Udhagamandalam (Ooty). It is the disembarking point for those who want to take the Mountain train that runs from Mettupalayam, just 35 km from Coimbatore. There are also regular bus services from Coimbatore to Ooty.
Places to See:
Perur Temple
Those in love with ancient art and architecture may well visit the Perur Temple. Built by Karikala Cholan, this temple is situated 7 Kms west of Coimbatore near river Noyyal. It is dedicated to Lord Siva. The presiding deity of the temple is known as Patteeswarar and His Consort, Pachai Nayaki. The exquisite sculptures in the hall , Kanagasabi, attract on e and all. It is also known as Mel Chidambaram.
Maruthamalai Temple
Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the presiding deity is known as Dandayuthapani. This temple located on a hillock is 12 Kms from Coimbatore Railway Station and Bus Stand.
Agriculture University
About 5 Kms from the Coimbatore Railway Station, this is the sixteenth Farm University in independent India. Though it came into existence on June 1, 1971 its ancestry is much older than that of the earliest started Agricultural University in the country.
Forest College
One of the oldest institutions of its kind in India, the Forest College is situated 3.5 Kms north of the Railway Station. The College Museum is worth a visit.
Black Thunder
It is Asia's number one theme park based at the foothills of gigantic Nilgiris. The Water park spread over 65 acres at Mettupalayam has a number of thrilling water games and land games.
The VOC Park
Dedicated to the memory of the freedom fighter VO Chidambaram VOC Park has mini zoo, children train and gardens with the replicas of pre-historic dinosaurs.
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