Country | India |
Population | 1601438 |
Area | 257.04 km2 (99.24 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
Coordinates | 11.00555, 76.96612 |
Highest elevation | 427 m (1,401 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Coimbatore, often affectionately called Kovai, is a vibrant metropolitan city in Tamil Nadu, India, nestled along the banks of the Noyyal River and flanked by the Western Ghats. As the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu after Chennai, Coimbatore boasts a population of approximately 1.6 million as of the 2011 census, and it ranks as the 16th largest urban agglomeration in India.
Historically, Coimbatore has been a significant center since ancient times. It was part of the Chera dynasty’s domain during the Sangam period, which lasted from the 1st to the 4th centuries CE. It was strategically positioned along the Rajakesari Peruvazhi, an ancient trade route connecting the west coast to Tamil Nadu. Over the centuries, the city witnessed a series of rulers, including the Cholas in the 10th century and the Vijayanagara Empire in the 15th century, followed by the Nayaks who introduced the Palayakkarar system.
During the late 18th century, the region fell under the control of the Kingdom of Mysore, and after Tipu Sultan’s defeat in the Anglo-Mysore Wars, it was annexed by the British East India Company in 1799. The city became a district capital in 1804 and gained municipality status in 1866. The early 19th century saw Coimbatore’s textile industry boom, a trend that continued as Mumbai’s cotton industry declined.
Post-independence, Coimbatore’s growth accelerated, becoming a major industrial hub. Today, it is renowned for its textile industry, which earns it the moniker “Manchester of South India.” The city also excels in the production of wet grinders, jewelry, poultry, and auto components. Notably, the “Coimbatore Wet Grinder” and “Kovai Cora Cotton” are recognized as Geographical Indications by the Indian government.
Economically, Coimbatore is a powerhouse. It was named the best emerging city in India by India Today in 2014 and ranks fourth in investment climate among Indian cities according to the Confederation of Indian Industry. It also holds the 17th position among the top global outsourcing cities, as reported by Tholons.
In terms of infrastructure and development, Coimbatore is making strides with its inclusion in the Smart Cities Mission and AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) by the Indian government. It regularly features among the top ten best cities to live in India and is considered one of the safest cities in India for women, based on the National Crime Records Bureau report from 2015.
Overall, Coimbatore is a city that blends rich historical significance with modern industrial prowess, making it a key player in South India’s economic and cultural landscape.
Leave a Reply