Coimbatore is a large and industrialised city in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is also popularly known as the textile capital of south India. Coimbatore experiences heavy rainfall from July till October, and hot and humid summers from March to June, so the winter months from late October to March is the best time to visit the city.
Coimbatore has rich black soil is a major reason for a flourishing agricultural industry, the abundant growth of cotton has led to the development of its textile industry. However amidst the large industrialised city you will find places of interest when on holiday, like ancient Dravidian- style temples, cultural centres like museums, botanical gardens, and zoos even some modern amenities like amusement parks and malls.
When planning a family vacation the needs and ages of the family members need to be kept in mind so that everyone gets a chance to enjoy themselves and beautiful lifetime memories can be made. Getting your children involved in planning the itinerary will keep them fully aware of what is going to happen and will give them a chance to voice out their opinions on things they would like to do. If they are old enough, let them research online the various things to do in Coimbatore or places to visit in Coimbatore. Do keep a day or two for relaxing and lazing around at a resort or hotel, away from the hustle and rush of our daily lives while also exploring the famous things that Coimbatore has to offer and learn a bit about the area.
Here are a select few of the best places in Coimbatore for a family vacation
Places of religious interest
India is known for its numerous religions, all over the country you will find centuries old churches, mosques, temples, gurudwaras and so on each with its magnificent architecture and interesting history behind it. Coimbatore is not less, the Adiyogi Shiva Statue which is the tallest bust statue in the world is a must see even for those who don’t believe in Lord Shiva. The majestic size of this carved steel stature surrounded by serenity is a must to experience. Apart from this there are beautiful temples located in and around the city dedicated to various God’s like-
- The Marudhamalai Hill temple
- Sree Ayyappan Temple
- Patteeswarar Temple Perur
- Vinayagar, Eachanari
- Anubhavi Subramaniar temple
The Marudhamalai Hill temple which houses the deity, Lord Muruga is situated on the Western Ghats at a 500 ft. of elevation.The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is open daily from 5.30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. The special darshan fee is INR 50 per person. Devotees can book rituals like abhishegam and archana for INR 8000. Frequent buses run from the hill base to the temple every 15 minutes. Private vehicles can also go up to the temple by paying a small toll fee.
Sree Ayyappan Temple is a resemblance of the Sabarimala temple of Kerala.The Sree Ayyappan Temple in Coimbatore does not require entry tickets for regular darshan, while special darshan tickets cost Rs 100 per person. Temple timings are from 4:30am to 12pm and 5pm to 8:30pm daily. To get to the temple located within 3km of Coimbatore’s bus and train stations as well as the airport, you can take a bus or auto-rickshaw to Town Hall and then travel less than 2km to the temple. You can also take trains to Coimbatore Junction or Gandhipuram and then take taxis, auto-rickshaws or buses for the short 3km trip to the temple. Driving to the temple is also convenient as parking is available near the temple on Avinashi road.
Patteeswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Natraj. This temple is located slightly on the outskirts of Coimbatore, but is a must see for the unmatched skilled artwork by Indian artists.The Patteeswarar Temple in Perur, Coimbatore does not require any entry tickets or fees for darshan. The temple is open daily from 5AM to 12PM and 4PM to 9PM. To reach the temple located around 10km from Coimbatore city center, you can take buses or auto-rickshaws from Gandhipuram bus stand to Perur which has frequent connectivity. You can also take taxis, autos or cabs for the 12km trip from the airport or railway stations directly to the temple. Driving is also convenient via Avinashi road, take the Perur road exit and follow signs for the temple where parking is available. The nearest rail station is Coimbatore Junction at 12km and the airport is 14km from the temple.
These hills are a part of the Nilgiris Reserve located on the Western Ghats. Also known as “Sapthagiri or seven mountains”, these hills have a spiritual significance especially if you are a follower of Lord Shiva.The Vinayagar Temple in Eachanari village does not require any entry tickets or fees for darshan. The temple is open daily from 6AM to 12PM and 4PM to 8:30PM. To reach the temple located around 21km from Coimbatore city center, you can take buses or autos from Gandhipuram central bus stand to Eachanari which has connectivity. You can also take taxis, autos or cabs for the 23km trip from the airport or railway stations directly to the temple. Driving to the temple is also possible by taking Mettupalayam road and reaching via Karamadai and Periyanaickenpalayam. The nearest rail station is Coimbatore Junction at 23km and the airport is about 25km from the Vinayagar Temple.
This park in Coimbatore has a zoo which is bound to capture the attention of your little ones with the many animals and birds that they can see in close proximity. The park is also ideal for a family picnic.The Anubhavi Subramaniar temple located around 27km from Coimbatore city center does not require any entry tickets or fees. Temple timings are 6am to 12pm and 4pm to 8:30pm daily. To reach, take buses towards Mettupalayam from Gandhipuram bus stand and get down at Chinna Thadagam village which is on the route. Share autos are also available from Mettupalayam road. One can also take taxis, autos or cabs for the 30km trip directly from the airport or railway stations to the temple. Driving is possible by taking Mettupalayam road which passes through Chinna Thadagam to reach the temple. The nearest rail station is Coimbatore Junction at 30km and the airport is about 32km from the temple.
As a devotee you can visit these temples with your family and offer prayers, take time to explain to your child the significance of these temples and what they stand for, draw their attention to the various works of art- paintings, sculptures, statues etc. it will help them appreciate art even in later life. Visiting other places of worship other than your own will also help bring about cultural awareness and appreciation.
Places of cultural interest
Coimbatore has some unique museums that would be interesting for young children and adults alike to visit.
- One of the best places in Coimbatore for family fun is the Gedee car museum, with its ever expanding collection of antique, classic and modern cars from different countries.Gedee Car Museum requires entry tickets for visitors above 10 years of age. The museum remains open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, except on Tuesdays when it is closed. Additional charges apply for photography and videography. Tickets can be bought at the counter outside the museum.
- Gass Forest Museum this museum has a wide collection of stuffed animals and birds. A good place to visit with young children and see some of the animals really close.The Gass Forest Museum requires entry tickets for visitors above 5 years of age. The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, except Tuesdays when it is closed. No extra charges for photography or videography. Tickets can be bought at the counter outside the museum entrance.
Visiting such places with children helps in their cognitive development. They get to see things up close, and also helps in associating how things used to be in the past as compared to today as well as how things differ in different countries.
Places for Nature enthusiasts
Vacations and holidays are a wonderful time to get in touch with nature. The wonders of nature never cease to amaze and have a relaxing effect on our minds.
- Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
- Velliangiri Mountains
- VO ChidambaranarPark
- Nehru Park
This nature park was established to preserve the natural diversity of the Nilgiris. Housing over 430 species of 25,000 plants, this reserve is home to several species of birds, reptiles, mammals etc.The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is open 24 hours and can be accessed from Ooty, Coonoor or Kotagiri by state buses or hired taxis. Some zones require permits from the forest department. There are no entry fees.
These hills are a part of the Nilgiris Reserve located on the Western Ghats. Also known as “Sapthagiri or seven mountains”, these hills have a spiritual significance especially if you are a follower of Lord Shiva.No entry feeis required for Velliangiri Mountains. Start the uphill trek early morning from Poondi temple, reached by bus or taxi from Coimbatore in about an hour. The entire trek takes 10-12 hours round trip.
This park in Coimbatore has a zoo which is bound to capture the attention of your little ones with the many animals and birds that they can see in close proximity. The park is also ideal for a family picnic.VO Chidambaranar Park can be easily accessed by bus or auto to Red Fields area just 3 km from the railway station. The park is open daily 5 AM to 8 PM and has no entry fee. Driving is also convenient via Avinashi road from the city center.
Nehru Park is located conveniently within Coimbatore city, this park is ideal to spend a relaxing evening strolling through the manicured gardens while your children can run around and have some fun. If you’re really observant you can spot some birds around with their nests on the surrounding trees.Nehru Park can be easily reached via bus or auto by getting down at Nehru Stadium stop just 2 km from the railway station. The park is open daily 5 AM to 8 PM and does not charge any entry fees. Driving is also possible along Trichy road near Nehru Stadium.
Some of the other places to visit in Coimbatore to get you in close proximity to water bodies are Vydehi waterfalls, Monkey falls, KovaiKutralam waterfalls, Siruvani falls and dam, enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the waterfalls with a cosy family picnic. The serene Ukkam- Valankulam Lake is a wonderful place to spot birds like the purple moorhen and little grebes and maybe capture the photographic moment in this scenic place with your family.
Visit the Black thunder amusement parkto blow off some steam and have some loud family fun. This park has an area of 75 acres and has a huge array of water themed rides and water fun spaces for people of different ages. Enjoy a day at this park with your family and try out the delicacies at the eateries within.
Places for shopping enthusiasts
No holiday is complete without a shopping experience. Coimbatore is a well-known textile market, so take a trip to any of the numerous local textile markets around and collect your souvenirs, sarees, handicrafts or excellent quality materials at exclusive prices that you can use as gifts or get stitched at a later date.
To truly experience the culture of a place, visit the local restaurants. Coimbatore has its own unique cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Your local guide will be happy to guide you to the right place to enjoy your meal based on your dietary preferences.
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