Coimbatore is set to have a major recreational destination as Semmozhi Park, a long-awaited project, nears completion. Spread across 45 acres on the site of the former central prison at Gandhipuram, the park will feature a giant Ferris wheel, zipline, realistic rainforest experience, open-air gym, selfie zones, and convention centre.

Initially announced in 2010 by then Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, the park saw renewed momentum after current CM M K Stalin laid its foundation in December 2023. Slated for inauguration on August 15, construction is 85 percent complete, according to official sources. The project was initially expected to open in June but was delayed due to design revisions which aimed to include more adventure-based attractions, expected to draw more visitors.

The park will also include a botanical garden showcasing 219 endangered species cited in Sangam literature, and a herbal garden with 2,500 traditional trees and medicinal plants. The Ferris wheel and zipline will be built under a public-private partnership (PPP), using the build-operate-transfer model.