I chose to begin my day in Ukkadam at 6:00 AM — it’s well connected, close to bus stands, and the gateway to southern Coimbatore. My plan was to go from south to north with detours to hidden gems.
Eachanari Vinayagar Temple
As I entered the temple, located 12 km south of Coimbatore City, around 6:30 AM to 7:15 AM, the massive idol of Lord Ganesha stood tall — peaceful and majestic. It’s one of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu. The early morning aarti was soothing, and the temple priests shared that it’s believed Ganesha Himself chose this spot. The sunrise filtering through the gopuram made it feel divine.
Route: Ukkadam → Pollachi Road → Eachanari
Singanallur Lake
I didn’t expect this hidden beauty, located 15 km east of the city, during my visit from 7:45 AM to 8:30 AM. The lake was still and quiet, with locals jogging, yoga groups stretching, and birds gliding on the water. I spotted egrets, herons, and a few cormorants. There’s a small viewing platform too. A perfect place for peaceful moments in the middle of a city.
Route: Eachanari → Sungam Bypass → Trichy Road → Singanallur
Breakfast at A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan), Trichy Road
Near Singanallur, around 8:45 AM to 9:30 AM, I made a quick stop for soft idlis, pongal, and strong filter coffee. The A2B here is spacious and clean — a good option near the bypass. Their coconut chutney was top-tier!
Velliangiri Foothills – Poondi & Isha Route (Nature Escape)
I took the scenic village roads towards Poondi and the Velliangiri foothills, about 30 km west of the city, during my visit from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM — not the Isha side this time, but deeper into the forests. The greenery was lush, the air pure. I stopped at a natural stream and just soaked in the silence. If you’re a trekker, the Velliangiri climb starts from here — but that’s a whole day affair.
Route: Trichy Road → Kuniamuthur → Poondi → Velliangiri Base
Lunch + Shopping Break – Brookefields Mall
After the hills, I headed from Poondi through Kuniamuthur to Avinashi Road, reaching Central Coimbatore (Avinashi Road / DB Road) around 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. The mall was a sharp contrast — but a welcome one. I had lunch at Junior Kuppanna (their mutton meals are 🔥), then browsed FabIndia and local crafts at Poompuhar inside the mall. AC, snacks, washrooms — a good afternoon break.
TNAU Botanical Garden
Near GCT on Lawley Road, I visited the garden from 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM. I loved the calm and shaded paths — it’s part of the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and filled with rare trees, bonsais, and floral setups. Entry is cheap, and it’s perfect for a slow walk and bird spotting.
Route: Brookefields → Race Course → Lawley Road
Gass Forest Museum
In RS Puram, I visited the museum from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. This museum was a surprise gem — not many people know about it, but it’s a fascinating look at forest ecosystems, wildlife specimens, and forestry tools. It felt like a mini natural history museum. A great indoor experience, especially for kids or curious minds.
Route: Lawley Road → RS Puram
Sunset at VOC Park / Ground (Children’s Park View)
Near the Railway Station, I spent time from 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM relaxing by the kids’ play area, listening to laughter and watching cotton candy sellers walk by. As the sun dipped behind the buildings, it felt very local and nostalgic — like being part of a slice of city life.
Route: RS Puram → Big Bazaar Street → VOC Ground
Dinner at Valarmathi Mess (Local Coimbatore Food!)
In Gandhipuram, I wrapped up my day from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at a humble mess serving hot parottas, pepper chicken, and rasam. Locals swore by it, and they were right. It wasn’t fancy, but it was authentic Coimbatore on a plate.
