Coimbatore, fondly called Kovai, is more than just the Manchester of South India, it’s a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a traveller chasing waterfalls, seeking spiritual calm, or planning a quick weekend getaway, this city has something special for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 15 things to do in Coimbatore, the best tourist places, and how far the city is from Chennai and Bangalore. Plus, we’ll help you plan your one-day trips like a pro. Book your taxi service in bangalore.
Before we dive into the must-visit places, let’s make your travel smooth.
The distance from Chennai to Coimbatore is approximately 510 km.
You can reach Coimbatore by:
Flight: Around 1 hour from Chennai International Airport.
Train: Around 7–8 hours of scenic journey.
Road: A long but enjoyable drive via NH544 (about 8–9 hours).
If you’re planning a road trip, book a Chennai to Bangalore taxi first to explore the Silicon Valley of India and then continue your trip to Coimbatore for a wholesome travel experience.
The distance from Bangalore to Coimbatore is roughly 360 km, making it one of the most popular weekend routes in South India.
Travel options include:
Flight: 45-minute quick hop.
Train: 6–7 hours through lush landscapes.
By Road: A beautiful 6-hour drive via NH544 with plenty of pit stops.
Coimbatore isn’t just about sightseeing, it's also a food lover’s paradise. Here’s what you must try:
Kalyana Bhavan & Sree Annapoorna – Authentic South Indian breakfast like dosa, idli, and filter coffee.
Haribhavanam & Junior Kuppanna – Famous for Coimbatore-style biryani and spicy Chettinad dishes.
Chin Chin Bakery – Local bakery chain offering snacks, biscuits, and traditional sweets.
Shree Anandhaas – Vegetarian food with local specialties.
Brooke’s or local cafés – Try modern café culture with fusion dishes.
Day 1: Spiritual + City Highlights
Morning: Marudhamalai Temple ? Breakfast nearby
Late Morning: Perur Pateeswarar Temple ? Cultural photography
Afternoon: TNAU Botanical Garden ? Lunch at nearby café
Evening: Adiyogi Shiva Statue, Isha Yoga Center ? Sunset views
Night: Dinner at Junior Kuppanna (Biryani)
Day 2: Nature + Adventure + Relaxation
Morning: Siruvani Waterfalls & Dam ? Breakfast picnic
Late Morning: Velliangiri Hills Trek (short trail)
Afternoon: Valparai Drive ? Tea plantations + Monkey Falls
Evening: Return to Coimbatore city ? Shopping at Brookefields Mall
Night: Dinner at Haribhavanam or Kalyana Bhavan ? Coimbatore filter coffee
Approximate Travel Costs:
Taxi fares (one-way drop via Intercity Taxi): ?2,500–?3,500 per route
Food per day: ?500–?1,000 (mid-range)
Entry fees / attractions: ?100–?300 per place
Optional hotel stay: ?1,200–?3,000 per night (budget to mid-range)
Let’s explore the best Coimbatore attractions that define the city’s culture, nature, and charm.
Set on a scenic hill about 15 km from the city, Marudhamalai Temple is one of the most sacred places in Coimbatore. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, it’s not just a temple but a spiritual experience with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
Best time to visit: Early morning or evening.
Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby Perur Temple for a divine start to your trip.
No Coimbatore tourist place is complete without visiting the world’s largest bust statue, the Adiyogi Shiva Statue at the Isha YogaCentrer.
Surrounded by green hills, it’s a place where serenity meets spirituality.
Things to do: Attend the evening light show, join a meditation session, and visit the Linga Bhairavi temple nearby.
Best time: Sunset hours for a mesmerizing view.
The Siruvani Waterfalls are famous for their clear and sweet-tasting water, often considered the second-best in the world.
It’s located about 35 km from Coimbatore and surrounded by lush forests, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Why visit: Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Nearby attraction: Siruvani Dam, a serene picnic spot.
For adventure seekers, the Velliangiri Hills offer one of the most rewarding treks in South India.
Located within the Western Ghats, it’s also called the Kailash of the South due to its spiritual significance.
What to expect: A moderately challenging trek, panoramic views, and tranquil vibes.
Best season: December to March.
If you’re a car enthusiast, this is your paradise!
The Gedee Car Museum showcases vintage and modern cars from across the world, from Rolls-Royce classics to rare Indian models.
Fun fact: The collection belongs to industrialist G.D. Naidu, Coimbatore’s own “Edison of India.”
Entry fee: Very affordable and worth every minute.
Located in the heart of the city, the TNAU Botanical Garden is a green haven spread over 300 acres.
With a wide variety of plant species and a peaceful ambience, it’s a great place for families, photographers, and nature lovers.
Best time: Morning walks or evening relaxation.
If you’re traveling with family or kids, Black Thunder in Mettupalayam is a must-visit.
Spread across 75 acres at the foothills of the Nilgiris, it’s one of India’s largest water theme parks.
Don’t miss: Wave pools, roller coasters, and water slides.
Best time: November to February for pleasant weather.
This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is known for its rich Dravidian architecture and stunning stone carvings.
It’s one of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu and a symbol of Coimbatore’s deep cultural roots, and one of the best places to visit in Coimbatore.
Pro tip: Visit during temple festivals to witness local traditions and music.
If you love long drives through tea plantations and misty hills, Valparai is your dream destination.
Just 110 km from Coimbatore, it’s a perfect one-day trip or weekend getaway filled with scenic beauty and wildlife.
Must visit: Nallamudi viewpoint, Aliyar Dam, and Monkey Falls on the way.
Travel tip: Hire a one way drop taxi in Bangalore via Intercity Taxi if you’re traveling down south they make mountain drives safe and hassle-free.
A hidden gem, Kovai Kutralam, is located in the Siruvani hills and is less crowded than other waterfalls. It is one of the best one-day trips in Coimbatore.
It’s an eco-tourism spot managed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, perfect for picnics and short treks.
Entry: Allowed only till 4:30 PM, so plan accordingly!
Tip: Carry your camera; the view is Insta-worthy.
A popular family destination, VOC Park & Zoo offers lush gardens, walking paths, and a small but engaging zoo.
Why visit: Great for kids, picnics, and casual evening strolls.
Best time: Morning or late afternoon.
For a mix of shopping, food, and entertainment, Brookefields Mall is the city’s go-to hub.
Highlights: International brands, local boutiques, and a multiplex for movie lovers.
Tip: Try local South Indian snacks at the food court.
Located near Valparai, Monkey Falls is a refreshing spot with crystal-clear water and greenery all around.
Pro tip: Best visited in the early morning or post-monsoon for full water flow.
Photographers’ delight: Beautiful cascading waterfalls and forest views.
An ancient and iconic temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Eachanari Vinayagar Temple attracts devotees and tourists alike.
Highlight: Traditional South Indian architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
Siruvani Dam is not only functional but also visually stunning, surrounded by hills and forest.
Best for: A relaxing one-day trip, photography, and picnics.
Tip: Combine this with Siruvani Waterfalls for a full-day nature escape.
Fun for families and thrill-seekers, Kovai Kondattam offers water rides, adventure zones, and amusement rides.
Best for: Kids, couples, and friends seeking a day of fun.
Opening hours: 10 AM – 6 PM.
September to March: Cool, pleasant weather; ideal for sightseeing and hill trips
April to June: Summers are hot; suitable for indoor or waterfall visits
July to August: Monsoon brings greenery but some hill treks may be restricted
Coimbatore is a perfect mix of nature, spirituality, culture, and adventure. From peaceful temples like Marudhamalai to thrilling waterfalls at Siruvani and scenic drives to Valparai, the city has something for every traveler.
For hassle-free travel, especially if you’re coming from nearby cities, book your rides with Intercity Taxi:
Or choose one way drop taxi in Bangalore for a smooth start to your journey.
Coimbatore is famous for its textile industry, pleasant weather, temples, waterfalls, and filter coffee.
The Adiyogi Shiva Statue and Siruvani Waterfalls are among the most visited tourist spots.
One day covers only city highlights; a 2-day trip is recommended for hills and waterfalls.
Chennai to Coimbatore: ~510 km Bangalore to Coimbatore: ~360 km Taxis and flights are convenient options.
South Indian breakfast items, Coimbatore biryani, filter coffee, and Chettinad cuisine.
The operator will call back immediately and report the cost of travel
Book A Ride