Things to do in Coimbatore
When I talk to people about traveling around in the south of India, one of the most common reactions I get is “That sounds great, but isn’t it really hot over there?”. Mostly, yes: but there are a few spots with pretty good weather, and Coimbatore is one of the best places to spend a couple of days while making your way through the south. Nestled in the midst of the gorgeous Nilgiri mountains, Coimbatore is home to very friendly people, a reasonably bustling city atmosphere and a great location to explore the region. Here are some things to see and do if you find yourself in this charming little city:
Soar over the city at the Marudamalai temple
Perched on top of a hill just outside the city, the Marudamalai temple is a must-visit to get a great view of Coimbatore from up high. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, or Kartikeya — the god of war in Hindu mythology, and most temples built for Kartikeya are high up in the hills (presumably for the strategic advantage). You can drive up to the top of the hill with a private car [and enjoy the great views as you ascend the hills], or take a free shuttle offered by the temple from the foot of the hill. Three small flights of stairs take you through the intricately ornate gopuram (temple tower) into the main shrine — offer a small prayer as you relax in the spiritual atmosphere and absorb the great views of the city and the mountains.
Quick note on getting here: You can take an Uber or Ola cabs from the city to get you to Marudamalai, or hire a local cab company to take you around for the whole day.
Awaken your spiritual side at Dhyanalinga
You can’t think of India without thinking of religion and spiritual thought, and over the millennia dozens of religions, ideologies and spiritual schools of thought have been born in this nation. One of the more recent examples is Dhyanalinga — a spiritual center housed just a short 30-minute drive away from Coimbatore. As you enter, a grove of coconut trees in a geometric array transports you away from the hustle of the city around you — and as you hand over your shoes and electronic equipment at the entrance (cameras aren’t allowed in the main temple complex) — your eyes catch the giant statue of Lord Shiva presiding over the temple’s courtyard, against the backdrop of the hills. The temple leads you through an anterior raised platform where the devout take a dip in the small temple pool before venturing into the main temple. The temple complex itself is constructed of stone and marble, and a small walk brings you to the Dhyanalinga chamber: the main part of the temple.
The Dhyanalinga itself is a giant round meditation room — in the center of which is a giant linga representing Lord Shiva. Anyone seeking to meditate can enter the room at 15-minute intervals (a small bell announces the time to file in and out of the room). Once inside the chamber, you can find a corner to yourself and meditate in complete silence for any length of time — providing you exit the chamber only at the defined intervals. The absolute silence of the darkened chamber allows you to dwell on inner thoughts: and the entire complex reinforces a sense of peace and serenity.
At the back of the centre is the excellent Peppervine Cafe for food and snacks (which are made by the volunteers living at the colocated Isha Yoga centre) and a small gift shop selling completely handmade merchandize. Tip: Try the excellent vadas to fill both body and soul :)
Take a colonial stroll around Race Course Road
In the late 18th century, the British East India company was slowly consolidating its position in India. The earlier battles of Plassey and Buxar had given the British a strong hold around Bengal and East India, and a series of Anglo-Mysore wars with the rulers of Mysore resulted in Coimbatore’s annexation to British South India. The salubrious climate and surrounding slopes contributed to the rapid growth of the city, centered around Race Course Road in the south of Coimbatore. Today, a 3km long promenade covers the breadth of Race Course Road — a great place for a leisurely evening stroll with some great examples of colonial architecture. Close your eyes to the rush hour traffic around you, and you can almost imagine yourself in Colonial India as you walk around the mid-city promenade — and stop by Cafe Totaram or Cafe Coffee Day for a quick caffeine refill.
Take the Nilgiri mountain railway to Ooty’s verdant slopes
Another legacy of the British presence in and around Coimbatore is the Nilgiri mountain railway — a charming little narrow gauge railway line taking you from Coimbatore to the hilltop city of Ootacamund (commonly called Ooty). Ooty is a very charming hill resort town at the top of the Nilgiris — providing both a great respite from the heat of the plains, as well as growing some of the best tea in South India. The railway passes through the scenic slopes and tunnels, and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Book your tickets in advance through the Indian Railways website — as tickets can get sold out really quick — especially in the summer months.
Get on top of cloud nine in Ooty
Ooty in itself deserves a whole another article on its own, but take a day out of your trip to enjoy this charming little mountain town. High up on one of the mountain tops of the Nilgiris, Ooty’s great food, farm- fresh vegetables and relaxed vibe are the best oasis from your normal, harried life. Enjoy the great homemade chocolates from the town’s chocolate factories — explore the parks and markets, and make sure you sample the tea from the surrounding tea plantations.
This article is part of an upcoming series of articles about traveling in South India — which has tons of great attractions and amazing places to visit. If you’re thinking of traveling here — I can help you plan your trip and advise you on the best possible way to explore this intriguing, beautiful and often under-advertised part of the country. Feel free to e-mail me at southindiatips@gmail.com for questions and advice. And Bon Voyage!
