Coimbatore is the second largest city of TamilNadu and one of the fastest growing cities in India. Situated at the foot hills of Nilgiris, it is known for its pleasant climate, peaceful atmosphere, cosmopolitan outlook and private enterprise. Cotton textiles, electric motors, pumps, automobile spares, iron steel and aluminium castings form major exports from Coimbatore.
According to ancient manuscripts, Coimbatore’s history can be traced to the Irula tribal chief Kovan and his clan who were it’s earliest settlers and the founders of ’’Kovanpatti ’’ a part of Kongunadu. Years later, the surrounding forests were cleared, and a new village was formed called ’’Kovanputhur’’, which over the years came to be known as ’’Coimbatore’’.
In spite of it’s prominence as a bustling industrial city, Coimbatore still remains one of the most pollution free cities in India. Covering an area of 23.5 square kilometers, the city houses some of the biggest names in Indian Industry. The major industries include textiles, textile machinery, automobile spares, motors, electronics, steel and aluminium foundries. Tirupur - a neighbouring town has carved a niche for itself in the 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.
The city is also known for it’s educational institutions. Coimbatore Agricultural University is renowned as one of the best colleges of it’s kind in South Asia. In spite of it’s industrial and technological growth, traditions and age old customs are still held in high esteem. The temples bear witness to the religiousness and love of art and architecture of the people. There are also a number of places of tourist interest around Coimbatore. Ootacamund (Ooty for short), is one of the most popular tourist spots in India.
Though most of the tourist spots are located on the outskirts of Coimbatore, there are a number of places worth visiting within the city. The V.O. Chidambaram Park maintained by the city has a mini zoo and a children’s amusement park. The Nehru Stadium near the park, hosts a number of football tournaments and athletic meets. For rollerskating enthusiasts, there is also a rink opposite the stadium. The swimming pools in the city are mostly attached to hotels. There are a large number of movie halls within the city. For museum buffs, the Forest College Museum will prove interesting. The City museum is located on Mettupalayam Road. A new attraction: BlackThunder, a water sports and amusement park has been put up on Mettupalayam Road, near Kallar, about an hour’s drive from the city.
There are plenty of recreation clubs such as the Coimbatore Golf Club, The Cosmopolitan Club, The Coimbatore Club and The Coimbatore Flying Club. Motor racing is a passion for most Coimbatoreans. The Coimbatore Auto Sports Club hosts a number of rallies every year. A permanent industrial exhibition organised in memory of the late industrialist and visionary Mr. G.D.Naidu attracts visitors from all over.
This Waterfalls and the Dam are about an hour’s drive from Coimbatore. The water of Siruvani is known for its taste. The panoramic views of the dam and the falls are enchanting.