Known as the Manchester of South India, Coimbatore is one of the most industrialized districts and a major textile, industrial, commercial, educational, information technology, healthcare and manufacturing hub of Tamil Nadu. 

Lying on the banks of the river Noyyal, Coimbatore existed even prior to the 2nd or 3rd century AD during the time of Karikalan, the first of the early Cholas. Among its great rulers were Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Pandyas, Hoysalas and the Vijayanagara kings. When Kongunadu fell to the British along with the rest of the state, its name was changed to Coimbatore. In the local Tamil language, Coimbatore it is also called Kovai. 

In the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, Coimbatore enjoys a pleasant climate all the year round, aided by the fresh breeze that flows through the 25-km long Palakkad gap. The rich black soil of the region has contributed to Coimbatore’s flourishing agriculture sector. 

The successful growth of cotton served as a foundation for the establishment of its famous textile industry. The first textile mill came as far back as 1888 after that many textile mills were started and provided many employment opportunities within as well as neighboring districts. 

Coimbatore serves as an entry and exit point to the popular hill station of Udhagamandalam (Ooty). It is the disembarking point for those who want to take the mountain train that runs from Mettupalayam. Maruthamalai Temple, Parambikulam Aliyar, Vaideki Waterfalls, Sengupathi Waterfalls, Siruvani Waterfalls and Valparai are some of the attractions in the district.