Coimbatore is a key industrial and commercial center in Tamil Nadu. Also, the third largest city of the state, it is situated on the banks of river Noyyal. As a matter of fact, it is even known as the 'Manchester of the South', owing to the important place it occupies in the industrial sector. It is famous for its textiles and houses many other significant organizations. Besides, as it is located on the shadow region of the Western Ghats, the pleasant climate of the place is really enjoyable. Being ruled over by the ancient Western Ganga dynasty it boasts of a rich heritage. Moreover, it even serves as the entry point to the neighboring state of Kerala and the exotic hill station Ooty. Consequently, it has become a flourishing travel and tourism destination in South India.

Tourist Attractions

Though Coimbatore is a commercial center, it does offer some interesting places to visit. This includes Perur Temple, which is essentially a Lord Shiva shrine. Situated at a distance of 5 km from the city, near river Noyyal, it was built by Karikala Cholan. The presiding deities of the shrine are Patteeswarar and His Consort, Pachai Nayaki. Another important shrine in Coimbatore is Marudhamalai Temple. It is situated on a hillock, 12 km west of the main city. It is dedicated to Lord Muruga and attracts many devotees every year.

The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Dandayupathani, who is said to have performed many miracles here. Besides, at a distance of 5 km from the Coimbatore Railway Station, Agricultural University is situated. One of the ancient universities of the country, it is surely a place that you must pay a visit to. It houses a sprawling botanical garden, stretching over an area of 300 acres. Lying west of the city center, it houses flowers, plants and trees of varied species.

Another fascinating structure in the city is Forest College. It is situated at a distance of 3.5 km from the Coimbatore Railway Station. It is an interesting place as it is one of the oldest institutions in the country. It even houses a museum, which has a remarkable collection of different minerals, rocks, snakes, insects and fossils of plants and animals. The College also provides the facility of training forest rangers. Apart from this, the VOC Park is a good entertainment option for the tourists.

The Park is named after the renowned freedom fighter V. O. Chidambaram and serves to be a great picnic spot. Maintained by the Coimbatore Corporation, it has several attractions for the young ones. Some of the major attractions include the aquarium, with different species of fish, a mini zoo and models of prehistoric dinosaurs. Apart from this, children can also enjoy themselves on swing, slider, see-saw, toy train and other such joy rides.

How to Reach
By Air: Coimbatore city has its own airport, which is located at a distance of 12 km. It operates both domestic and international flights.

By Rail: The city has two railway stations, Coimbatore Junction and Coimbatore North Railway Station. The former is the main junction, which connects it to various cities of the country.

By Road: Coimbatore is well connected to the key cities of Andhra Pradesh and the neighboring states, via State Corporation and private bus service.