This place name comes from the Old Tupi language meaning "where hooks are made" or, according to a different interpretation, "where the river bends".

Source: IBGE[3] The region then occupied by the Portuguese was Pindamonhangaba at least since July 22, 1643, registering more remote occupation by a certain Captain João Prado Martins.

[citation needed] On April 16, 1858, it lost part of the territory that was located in the Serra da Mantiqueira, turning into a new municipality São Bento do Sapucaí.

[citation needed] In telecommunications, the city was served by Telecomunicações de São Paulo.

The company is currently an operator of cell phones, fixed lines, internet (fiber optics/4G) and television (satellite and cable).