How to get to Coimbatore

Coimbatore, located in the picturesque state of Tamil Nadu, is often referred to as the "Manchester of South India" for its developed textile industry and dynamic pace of life. It is not only a major industrial centre but also an important transport hub, serving as a gateway to the famous Nilgiri mountain resorts, such as Ooty.

You can get here by almost any mode of transport: the city has its own international airport and is excellently connected to other regions of India by a network of roads and railways.

The fastest way to reach the city is to fly into Coimbatore International Airport (CJB). It is located just a few kilometres from the centre and receives direct flights from major Indian metropolises, as well as some international destinations, ensuring a comfortable arrival.

If direct tickets are unavailable, a convenient alternative is to fly to neighbouring cities: Kozhikode (about 131 km) or Kochi (142 km). From these airports, you can reach your final destination by ground transport in a few hours.

Contrary to outdated data, railway connectivity here is excellently developed: the main station, Coimbatore Junction, is one of the key hubs of the Southern Railway. Dozens of trains arrive here daily, including high-speed expresses from Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, and cities in the neighbouring state of Kerala.

Travelling by train across India is a unique adventure, allowing you to see the country from within. For a comfortable journey, it is recommended to choose trains with AC Chair Car or Sleeper classes and book tickets in advance, as this route is in high demand.

The bus network connects Coimbatore with many cities in the region, offering both budget government services and comfortable private sleeper buses. A trip from Kochi (about 209 km) will take approximately 6 hours, and from the city of Kozhikode — about 6–7 hours.

The route from the city of Mysore is also quite popular: the bus covers the distance of about 200 km in an average of 5–6 hours. The road passes through picturesque natural zones, making the long journey less tiring.

Travelling by car or taxi gives you the freedom to plan and the opportunity to enjoy views of the Western Ghats. The drive from Kochi or Kozhikode will take roughly the same amount of time — about 4.5 hours, as the distance from both cities is approximately 193 km.

The driving route from the city of Mysore is also convenient: the distance of 199 km can be covered in an average of 4.8 hours. When booking a taxi for an intercity trip, it is recommended to agree on a fixed price in advance or ensure the meter is running to avoid tourist surcharges.

To make your stay in Coimbatore as comfortable and safe as possible, we have prepared some practical recommendations. This city combines tradition and modernity, so it is worth considering some local nuances.

1. Clothing and Climate. The city is usually warm, so opt for light clothing made of natural cotton. If you plan a trip to the mountains (for example, to Ooty), be sure to bring a warm sweater or jacket.
2. Transport. For trips around the city, it is convenient to use taxi apps (Uber, Ola) or auto-rickshaws. Always negotiate the price with rickshaw drivers on the street before boarding or ask them to turn on the meter.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Indian Rupee. Cards are accepted in hotels and malls, but for markets and small shops, be sure to carry cash in small denominations.
4. Health. Drink only factory-bottled water. Pharmacies are frequently found, but it is better to bring specific personal medicines with you.
5. Language. The main language of the region is Tamil. However, in tourist spots, hotels, and restaurants, the staff speaks English quite well.
6. Etiquette. When visiting temples, be sure to remove your shoes and ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered. The traditional greeting is folded palms.
7. What to Avoid. Do not display large sums of money in crowded places or walk around unlit outskirts at night.
8. Useful Tip. Coimbatore is famous for its textiles. Be sure to visit local markets to purchase high-quality cotton and silk at very favourable prices.

By following these simple rules, you can focus on exploring the culture, the delicious South Indian cuisine, and the hospitality of the locals.