Top 12 Best Road Trips From Coimbatore

A road trip from Coimbatore can take you to some incredible destinations, each offering its own unique charm. From beautiful hill stations to historical forts, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you want to relax or have exciting adventures, these road trips will give you unforgettable experiences.

Each destination listed here promises unique experiences, making them perfect for short road trips from Coimbatore or longer adventures, here are top 12 destinations:

1. Siruvani Waterfalls | 35 km

Siruvani Waterfalls, known for having one of the sweetest waters in the world, is a hidden gem. The journey to Siruvani Waterfalls is as refreshing as the destination, with lush landscapes and cool breezes.

• Best Time to Visit: June to October
• Popularity: Scenic beauty, trekking, and picnicking
• Activities to do: Trek to the waterfall, enjoy a picnic by the stream, and explore the surrounding forests
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Siruvani Waterfalls

2. Palakkad Fort | 54 km

Steeped in history, Palakkad Fort stands as a testimony to the region's rich cultural heritage, with its majestic architecture and intriguing legends, offering a glimpse into Kerala's past. It is also known as Tipu’s Fort.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Popularity: Historical significance, architecture, and cultural heritage.
• Activities to do: Explore the fort and museum, stroll around the gardens, and learn about the region's history.
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Palakkad.

3. Coonoor | 67 km

A charming hill station adorned with tea gardens and colonial-era bungalows, Coonoor captivates with its old-world charm and panoramic vistas, offering a perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Nilgiri Tea Gardens, Lamb’s Rock, Rallia Dam and Catherine Falls
• Activities to Do: Tea estate tours, bird watching, visiting dam and waterfalls and hiking to Lamb’s Rock
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Mettupalayam - Coonoor

4. Ketti Valley | 78 km

Ketti Valley is a picturesque location offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiris. The Coimbatore road trip to Ketti Valley is an experience of winding roads surrounded by lush greenery and tea plantations.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May.
• Popularity: Scenic viewpoints, nature walks, and photography
• Activities to do: Visit the tea plantation, explore local villages, and trek through the valley
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Mettupalayam - Coonoor - Ketti Valley.

5. Ooty | 86 km

Ooty, the Queen of Hill Stations, is a classic road trip destination from Coimbatore. Its charming colonial architecture, botanical gardens, and cool and pleasant climate make it a favourite among travellers.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Popularity: Botanical gardens, toy train rides, colonial architecture and scenic beauty
• Activities to do: Visit the Botanical Garden and take a boat ride at Ooty Lake
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Mettupalayam - Coonoor - Ooty.

6. Amaravathi Dam | 94 km

Amaravathi Dam, located in the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, is a peaceful retreat. The road trip to this dam from Coimbatore offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and the opportunity to spot wildlife.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Boating, birdwatching, Crocodile reservoir, and fishing reservoir
• Activities to do: Enjoy boating on the reservoir, picnicking by the banks, and spotting migratory birds
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Pollachi - Amaravathi Dam

7. Silent Valley National Park | 102 km

This untouched and pristine national park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The road leading to this Silent Valley National Park is an adventure in itself, offering glimpses of Kerala's rich biodiversity.

• Best Time to Visit: December to April
• Popularity: Wildlife sightings, Lion-tailed macaque, trekking, and birdwatching
• Activities to do: Jungle safari, trekking and birdwatching
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Palakkad - Silent Valley National Park

8. Bellikkal | 128 km

Bellikkal is a serene village nestled in the Nilgiris. It's a lesser-known gem offering peace away from the hustle and bustle. The drive to Bellikkal is scenic, with beautiful lush forests and tea gardens dotting the way.

• Best Time to Visit: July to September
• Popularity: Serene landscapes, wildlife and ayurvedic massage
• Activities to Do: Bird watching, trekking, nature walks and book massage section
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Annur - Bellikkal

9. Munnar | 159 km

Munnar is a popular hill station famous for its tea gardens, misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and exotic flora and fauna. The drive is as mesmerising as the destination, with picturesque views throughout.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Popularity: Tea estates, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints
• Activities to do: Explore tea gardens, trek to Anamudi Peak, and visit Mattupetty Dam
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Pollachi - Udumalaipettai - Munnar

10. Beypore Beach | 175 km

Beypore Beach is known for its historical significance and the ancient Beypore Port. Beypore Beach road trip near Coimbatore is a perfect getaway for those looking to explore the coast and unwind by the sea.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Popularity: Beach, historical port and floating bridge
• Activities to Do: Sunbathing, water sports, boat riding, sightseeing, and enjoying seafood.
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Palakkad - Beypore Beach

11. Madurai | 213 km

Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, is famous for its rich heritage and the Meenakshi Amman Temple. The journey from Coimbatore to Madurai introduces travellers to the rural charms of Tamil Nadu.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Popularity: Temples, cuisine, shopping, and architecture
• Activities to Do: Visit Meenakshi temple, Thriumalai Nayakkar Mahal, shop silk sarees and traditional jewellery, and explore local food
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Dharapuram - Madurai

12. Bangalore | 369 km

Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is not just about IT parks; it's a city with green parks, a vibrant culture, and a lively nightlife. The road trip from Coimbatore to Bangalore is an experience of transitioning landscapes and climates.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Popularity: Nightlife, parks, heritage sites and tech culture
• Activities to Do: Visit Bangalore Palace, museums, modern art galleries, and temples and try local street food items.
• Ideal Route: Coimbatore - Salem - Bangalore

Coimbatore's prime location makes it an ideal starting point for various road trips. Whether you're driving a rented vehicle or your own, ensure you have all essential documents like car insurance and a valid driving license to ensure a safe and smooth journey. Each road trip destination from Coimbatore brings its own set of experiences, landscapes, and memories.