CITY SIGHTS

INFANT JESUS CHURCH

Kovaipudur or rather Kuniamuthur and areas South and West of Palghat Road was earlier attached to the Cathedral parish. Bishop Visuwaram was searching for a suitable site on the National Highway of this area, but he died before it was realised. It was attached to Madukkarai Parish and since NOVEMBER1976, a Sunday mass is being conducted for the Special Protection Force. With civilian housing colonies mushrooming all over, a site was bought by the Diocese, with the picturesque back-drop of Vellingiri hills to the west. Kovai Pudur Tel: 260-7157.

GD NAIDU MUSEUM

Avinashi Road, Gopala Puram Tel: 222-2548 The museum showcases engineering products and other interesting curious items. Many of them were invented by GD Naidu himself. His collection of razors, electric shavers, gas lighters and photo flashes are lined up at the museum. A variety of pens, postcards, cameras and binoculars fill another side. Working models, drawings and charts give us details and also let us practically examine them.

KOVAI KUTRALAM FALLS

Located in Siruvani, about 37 km from Coimbatore, these scenic waterfalls are in the heart of a dense jungle. Which is why visitors are not permitted after 5pm. A good place to watch birds and wildlife within the area. As very few buses are available, it is best to plan in advance if you want to enjoy the panoramic view out here.

KASTHURI SREENIVASAN TRUST ART GALLERY AND TEXTILE MUSEUM

Avinashi Road, Tel: 257-4110 The museum show cases types of handlooms from various parts of India as well as sketches of various types of handlooms used by American Indians, history of costumes in India from the time of Mohenjo-Daro down to the 19th century is depicted in the form of pictures, antique sarees, other textiles and artifacts, whorl wheels of Egypt and the spinning wheels of Mohenjo-Daro the growth and development of spinning and weaving is exhibited through charts, models and actual machines in a few cases and the development of the early stages of the Industrial Revolution are exhibited in their logical sequence.

SENGUPATHI WATERFALLS

This waterfall is located 35 kms from Coimbatore on the way to Siruvani. The location is pleasant and beautiful and tourists flock to this place like bees to honey.

RAMAR TEMPLE

Situated in Ramnagar, the Ramar temple is one of the holy places that attract devotees all year round. Dedicated to Lord Ram, the rituals and ceremonies are conducted regularly and with much fanfare.

PERUR PATTEESWARA SWAMY

Perur Patteeswara Swamy temple is the most popular temple in the city. Built by the King Karikala Cholan, this temple is situated 7 kms west of Coimbatore near river Noyyal, called ‘Kanchi Manadi’ by the locals. The presiding deity is Shiva and the ‘Swayambu Lingam’ is the idol worshipped here. This sanctum is the joint effort of the Chola, Hoysala and Vijayanagara rulers during their reign. The greatest attraction is the ‘Kanaka Saba’ or the golden hall which is adorned by a gold-plated statue of Nataraja bestowing blessings upon the two sages - Gowmuni and Pattimuni. The gopurams and pillars of the hall are exquisitely carved out sculptures highlighting Dravidian architecture. The significance is unfolded in the poetic creations of Arunagiri Nather and Kachiappa Munivar. Pilgrims from all over visit this spot to pay homage to their ancestors. It is believed that the mortal remains of the dead turn into white stones after 144 days.

FESTIVALS

The Mariamman festivals, at the city’s numerous Amman temples, is a major event in Kovai in the summer. This is one of the most popular festivals celebrated along with Koniamman temple car festival. Car festivals at the Karamadai temple and the famous Avinashi temple attract a large attendance. Traditional Hindu festivals like Pongal, Deepavali are major events. Ayudha pooja is an important festival. All commercial establishments are cleaned and painted (machines and vehicles are washed), concluding with a pooja.

MUDUMALAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Situated 67 kms away from Coimbatore, the sanctuary’s dense vegetation and favourable climate attract a variety of wild animals like tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, snakes and birds. Elephant rides are a major draw. Dormitory and hotel accommodation are available within the

sanctuary.

THIRUMURTHY DAM

It is situated at the foot of Thirumurthy Hills, adjoining the Thirumurthy Dam. This is about 20 kms from Udumalpet on the highway from Palani to Coimbatore. A perennial stream flows by the side of the Amalingeswarar temple. Close to it is a refreshing waterfall. There is also a Crocodile Farm in Amaravathy Dam nearby. This place is being developed as District Excursion Centre.

THIRUMOORTHY TEMPLE

This is also a sacred place where there is a holy shrine. This lies 20 km away from Udumalpet on the Palani-Coimbatore highway. The temple is set on the foot of the Thirumoorthy Hills near the dam of the same name. A stream flows by the side of the temple and there are some waterfalls nearby. This is now being developed by the Tourism Department to make it a good District Excursion Centre.

THE SIRUVANI WATERFALLS AND DAM

This waterfall and dam are about 37 kms from Coimbatore. The water of Siruvani is known for its sweet taste. The panoramic views of the dam and the falls are enchanting.

TOP SLIP

A picturesque locale in the Annamalai Hills. It is about 37 kms from Pollachi (about 90 kms from Coimbatore).There are bungalows available within the sanctuary. For thrill seekers, accommodation is also available in a tree house.

ISHA YOGA CENTRE

Velliangiri Foothills,Isha Vihar Post; Tel: 251-5345, 6am–8pm Arulmigu Vanabadrakaliamman Temple, Devikottam, Thekkampatti, Nellithurai (Post), Mettupalayam Tel: 04254-222286/225510, www.vanabadrakaliamman.tnhrce.in

MARUDHAMALAI HILL TEMPLE

At an altitude of 500 feet, Marudhamalai Hill temple is scenically located at a distance of 15 km from the city limits. Beautiful weather, pristine clear views of the low-lying city can be had while going to the temple. An exquisitely carved statue of Lord Murugan is worth seeing. Most buses and special buses are granted by the devasthanam for taking the devotees to the temple on top of the hill.

A tale of Italy at Favola the Italian fine dining restaurant at Le Meridien Coimbatore

Lending Coimbatore city a spectacular food option and authentic Italian menu and ambience, Favola at Le Meridien Coimbatore transports food lovers to Italy – the land of passion, intrigue and mystique.

Favola, the signature brand restaurant of Le Meridien is for the young and the young at heart! Easy going, quirky and free spirited, the ambience of this Italian restaurant is dappled and doused in natural light, muted conversations and wafting aromas! Undoubtedly the name also lends an effervescent dimension. At the entrance, you are struck by the fashionable rustic decor. It is set in cheerful yet warm colors and enhanced subtle touches instantly transport you to a fairy tale Italian home. Lending further authenticity is the live kitchen buzzing with action and movement. Large windows open out to a refreshing view of the swimming pool. With an eye for detail the décor has been done using

natural wood, greenery, granite and marble. Offering exclusivity to its guests, the restaurant also has a private dining area.

The restaurant has a menu that’s straight from the rustic kitchens of Italy. Cheerful and friendly, the delicious aromas emanating from its wood fire oven, invites one to come join in on the fun. The menu reveals simple yet classic Italian fare. A large selection of anti pasti, pasta, pizzas, salads, seafood, poulty and a selection of exotic desserts are just some of the delicious options available.

All ingredients used in the dishes are genuine ensuring that quality and taste have not been compromised. The bar is impressive with its selection of imported Italian wines and new world wines to choose from. Service being the high point of the restaurant, its all smiles, warmth and efficiency, right from the graceful hostess who greets you, to the table attendants.

Visit Favola at Le Meridien Coimbatore with your friends, family and loved ones if you wish to be transported to the authentic beauty and flavour of Italy. The resturant is located on level 1st missenanine overlooking the poolside and is open from 7pm to 11pm.

Its a Italian affair you will simply love!

Favola Le Meridien Coimbatore 762, Avinashi Road; Reservations: 73586-16555, 236-4343, 425-4343

M

M Mahaveer THE SILK PEOPLE