All about Coimbatore

Though the initial settlements in coimbatore are believed to have been around for two millennia, it was only in the colonial period that the town rose to fame, for its numerous industries. The rich-black soil around the city has given Coimbatore its flourishing textile mills, employing thousands and earning it the epithet of ‘Manchester of the South’.

To Do
Like many other small Indian towns, there’s nothing exceptionally touristy here. We spent our time roaming the streets, bargaining for ivory-white ‘100 per cent' cotton shirts, fattening ourselves on chips and wondering about the numerous educational institutes around. Then there were also the almost-obligatory visits to the 'Houses of Worship' present at every nook and corner.

Amongst all the temples, the Perur Patteeswaraswamy Temple by the Noyyal River is most famous. This Chola-era temple is built in the Dravidan style and is home to a gold-plated statue of Natraja. Also well known are the Marudamalai Temple of Lord Muruga, and the Thirumoorthy Temple situated on the highway from Palani to Coimbatore. Urban-yuppies however may find solace in the Dhyanalinga Temple of the Isha Foundation. While everyone may not agree to the Foundation’s concepts and beliefs, we’d highly recommend a visit to this complex, for its unusual temple architecture. A 33-feet high and 76-feet wide dome, built without any steel, cement or concrete and a 35-feet deep subterranean water body are the highlights; and the entire complex is embellished with uber-chic design elements.

The Forest College Museum preserves a variety of flora, fauna and other exhibits related to the natural world, while the Khadi Gandhi Gallery has an engaging display about the Father of the Nation. All major events from Gandhiji’s life are showcased with photographs and memorabilia. The Government Museum in the VOC Park, the G D Naidu Industrial Exhibit and the Textile Museum in the Shreenivasan Art Gallery are also worth-a-dekho.

But if you’d rather spend your time outdoors, then head to the hilly areas surrounding the city that comprises numerous waterfalls such as Sengupathi Falls, Monkey Falls, Vaideki Falls and the Siruvani Waterfall.

Food and drink
Sambar, rice, idlis, vadas and chutneys are the staple food, and can be relished at any time of the day. Sweets and non-vegetarian dishes are best sampled at the more established eateries. Also drink a few sips of water from the Siruvani Dam, and decide for yourself if it indeed is the ‘second sweetest water in the world’ as the locals sweetly claim it to be.

Shopping
Being a major textile centre, clothing items – saris and dhotis - are Coimbatore’s best buys. Also stock up on banana-wafers, sambar powder and the local sweets.

Fact file
Getting around: Though city-buses and non-metered auto rickshaws are available, the best option for tourists is to use the taxis
Best time to visit: All year round, not counting the summer months

Getting there
Air: Peelamedu Airport is about 10km away from the city centre, and is well connected to major South Indian cities, as well as to Mumbai
Rail: Coimbatore Junction
Road: Coimbatore has three national highways that pass through it: NH 47, NH 67 and NH 209