Coimbatore, known as the 'Manchester of the South India ', the city is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal. Prior to the 2nd century AD, Coimbatore existed as a small tribal village capital called Kongunad, the British changed its name was to Coimbatore and it is by this name that it is known today, except in Tamil, in which it is called Kovai.

Located in the shadow of the Western Ghats, Coimbatore enjoys a very pleasant climate the year round. The rich black soil of the region has contributed to Coimbatore's flourishing agriculture industry and it is in fact that the successful growth of cotton that served as a foundation for the establishment of its famous textile industry. The first textile mills came up as far back as 1888. It serves as an entry and exit point to the neighbouring State of Kerala and the ever popular hill station of Ooty. It is the disembarking point for those who want to take the Toy Train to Ooty that runs from Mettupalayam, just 35km from Coimbatore.