Often referred to as the “Manchester of India”, Coimbatore is known for its many textile mills and a salubrious climate. Coimbatore is the third largest city in Tamilnadu and situated at the foot of the Nilgiri hills on the banks of the Noyyal river. History reveals that Coimbatore existed even before the 2nd century AD as a small tribal village capital called Kongunadu until it was brought under the control of the Chola dynasty. According to ancient manuscripts, it was called Covanputhur named after Covan, the leader of the Irula tribal group. Covanputhur became Coimbatore during the British rule.

There are over 25,000 micro, small, medium, and large industries – many of them related to the textile industry. Coimbatore is also famous for the manufacture of forgings, castings, motor pump sets and other engineering goods. The city is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and service to society. This is due to its venturesome entrepreneurs, skilled industrial workers, and hardworking peasantry. The neighbouring town - Tirupur - has carved a niche for itself in the global hosiery and garments market. Agriculture however remains the major occupation. The rich fertile soil and tropical climate is excellent for the growth of millet, paddy, cotton, tea, oil seeds and tobacco.

Coimbatore enjoys a very moderate and pleasant climate through the year. The rainy seasons are caused by the south-west monsoon during June-September and by the north-east monsoon during October-November. The best time to visit Coimbatore is between December and March.

In spite of its agricultural wealth and industrial and technological growth, Coimbatore remains a city where age-old customs are cherished, where family bonds are strong, and where tradition is a way of life. Temples are standing symbols of the divinity of the people. Among the famous temples are Marudhamalai (Lord Subramanya), Bannari (Goddess Mariamman), Bhavani (Lord Sangameswarar), Palani (Lord Subramanya), Perur (Lord Patteeswarar), Thenthirumalai (Lord Venkateswara), and the Thandu Mariamman temple.

Coimbatore is also known for healthcare and education. It has been a major centre for higher education since the early 1900s. There are over 100 colleges – from arts and science to engineering, medicine, management, and IT - and over 20 reputed hospitals in Coimbatore.

Coimbatore is well connected by air, rail and road network. There are also a number of places of tourist interest around Coimbatore. Some of these are:

Tamilnadu Agricultural University – started in 1868, considered the best of its class in South Asia.

Black Thunder Theme Park – situated about 40kms from Coimbatore, this is spread over 65 acres of natural beauty with the green hills of the Nilgiris for a backdrop. It is equipped with all the latest water rides and thrills.
 
Siruvani Waterfalls - about 37 kms west of the city is noted for its captivating beauty and the sweetness of its water. The panoramic view of the dam and the falls are of enchanting beauty.

Udhagamandalam (Ooty) – Popularly known as the “Queen of Hill Stations”, Udhagamandalam (88kms from Coimbatore) was the summer capital of the British rulers in India. The misty blue haze of the Nilgiris and the fragrant rain forests lure millions of tourists to Ooty every year. Situated at an altitude of 2268 metres above sea level, it was discovered in the early 18th Century. Snooker is said to have originated on the billiards table of the Ooty Club by an army officer - Neville Chamberlain.

The smaller hill resorts adjoining Ooty - Coonoor and Kothagiri have the same dewy fresh mornings and breezy calm evenings of Ooty. The botanical gardens established by the Marquis of Tweedale in 1847, continues to be a major attraction.The Ooty flower show and the dog show are popular events held annually.
 
Mudumalai Wild Life Sanctuary - situated 67 kms away from Coimbatore, the sanctuary's dense vegetation and favourable climate attract a variety of wild animals like Tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Deer, Snakes, and birds. Elephant rides are a major draw.
 
Kodaikanal – Kodaikanal hill station is situated 138 kms from Coimbatore at the southern tip of the Palani Hills. Dense greenery, crystal clear springs, water falls and misty cool air make Kodaikanal one of the most popular hill stations in South India. The hill sides abound with the Kurinji flower which blooms once in 12 years .For orchid lovers, there is an orchidorium 6 kms away having more than 300 varieties of orchids.

Top Slip – located about 90kms from Coimbatore, Top Slip is a picturesque animal and bird sanctuary in the Anamalai Hills. There are bungalows available within the sanctuary. For thrill seekers, accommodation is also available in a tree house.
 
Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary - This sanctuary is situated at an altitude of 1,400 metres in the western ghats near Pollachi. The area of the sanctuary is 958 Sq. Kms. It has various kinds of exotic fauna like elephant, gaur, tiger, panther, sloth bear, pangolin, black headed oriole, green pigeon and civet cat. The Amaravathy reservoir in the Anamalais has a large number of crocodiles. Arrangements are available at Topslip to take tourists around the Sanctuary on elephant back or by van.