Quick answer

Coimbatore (Kovai) is a major industrial and textile hub in Tamil Nadu with pleasant climate, good connectivity, and nearby hill stations. Plan for warm weather year-round, check visa rules for India, and use city taxis or buses for getting around.

Visa & entry requirements

• Foreign visitors need an Indian visa or e-Visa prior to arrival—apply through the official Government of India e-Visa portal or nearest consulate.
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival and have blank pages.
• Carry a printed copy of your e-Visa/visa approval and hotel bookings; immigration may ask for proof of onward travel.
• COVID restrictions: check latest India travel health advisories before travel (vaccination/test rules can change).

Best time to visit

• October to March: ideal — cooler, dry weather (20–30°C).
• April to June: hot (up to mid-30s°C); not ideal but manageable if planning indoor/industrial visits.
• Monsoon (July–September): moderate rain; fewer tourists and lower hotel rates.

Safety tips

• Coimbatore is relatively safe compared with many Indian cities, but use usual precautions: avoid poorly lit lone streets at night, watch belongings in crowded markets, and use ride-hailing or registered taxis.
• Keep digital and physical copies of important documents.
• Drink bottled water; avoid street ice and uncooked salads if you have a sensitive stomach.
• For medical emergencies, know nearest hospital/clinic; major hospitals are available in the city.

Local customs & etiquette

• Tamil Nadu is culturally conservative: dress modestly when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders/knees).
• Remove shoes at temple entrances and follow temple protocols (some temples prohibit leather items).
• Greet with a nod or “Vanakkam” (Tamil greeting).
• Tipping: customary in restaurants (5–10% if service charge not included); small tips for porters, drivers, guides.

Currency & money matters

• Indian Rupee (INR). Carry some cash for small vendors; cards widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
• ATMs and bank branches are common; inform your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
• Mobile UPI and wallets are widely used—download local apps only if you know how they work.

Transportation & getting around

• By air: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) has domestic and limited international flights.
• By rail: Coimbatore Junction (CBE) connects to major Indian cities.
• Local transit: app-based taxis (Uber/Ola), auto-rickshaws (negotiate fare or insist on meter), city buses, and private taxis.
• Driving: roads are generally good; traffic can be congested in peak hours. Renting a car with a driver is common and convenient.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Industrial visits: many factories/textile mills require advance permission—arrange through contacts or travel desk.
• Day trips: nearby Ooty and Coonoor (Nilgiris) are popular hill-station escapes ~1.5–3 hours away; Siruvani Waterfalls and Anamalai Tiger Reserve are also close.
• Food: try Tamil Nadu specialties—dosas, idli, sambar, and local Chettinad dishes. Street food is tasty but choose busy, hygienic stalls.
• Shopping: textiles, cotton sarees, and handcrafted items; check quality and bargain at local markets.
• Language: Tamil is primary; English and Hindi are commonly understood in business/tourist areas.
• Power/plug: 230V, 50Hz; Type C/D/M plugs—carry an adapter if needed.

Practical checklist

• Valid passport, visa/e-Visa printout, travel insurance, local SIM or roaming setup.
• Lightweight clothing, hat/sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for hill trips.
• Copies of bookings and emergency contacts (hotel, embassy/consulate).

Enjoy Coimbatore for its mix of industry, culture, and easy access to the Western Ghats. Safe travels!