GATEWAY CITY · TAMIL NADU
Coimbatore is Tamil Nadu's second largest city and the primary gateway to the Nilgiris, Ooty, Coonoor, and the western Tamil Nadu hill stations. Surrounded by the Western Ghats on three sides, the city sits at 411 metres elevation and has a mild climate compared to the Tamil Nadu plains. The Adiyogi Shiva Statue at Isha Yoga Centre, at 34 metres the world's largest bust sculpture, draws millions of visitors. The Marudamalai Murugan Temple on a 450-metre hilltop and the Siruvani Dam — whose water is considered the second tastiest in the world by WHO standards — are other notable attractions. Coimbatore is 200km from Cochin.
Year-round destination due to moderate climate. October to March is most pleasant. July–September for lush green landscapes. Summers (April–June) are warm but not extreme (30–37°C).
Coimbatore International Airport has flights from all major Indian cities (11km from city). Coimbatore Junction is well-connected by rail to Chennai (7hr), Bangalore (6hr), and Kochi (4hr). Drive from Cochin takes 3.5 hours via NH544.
