SALEM

The district headquarters of Salem district in Tamil Nadu, Salem is presumed to be the birth place of the poetess Awaiyar who has written poems in Tamil which are popular even now. It is highly regarded for its mangoes, steel and also for the Mettur Dam which serves as a conduit for irrigation and drinking. Once upon a time Salem was the biggest district in Tamil Nadu until it was forked to create Dharmapuri district. But later on it again was bifurcated to form the Namakkal district to be pulled back to the fifth slot in terms of area. Salem is surmised to be the fourth city to be urbanized in Tamil Nadu.
The Salem district in India has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It was once a major center of Buddhist learning and was known as the "second Lumbini" due to the large number of Buddhist monasteries and Stupas in the area. In the 16th century, the district was a key center of the Bhakti movement, a religious reform movement that emphasized devotion and love for God. Today, the Salem district is known for its cultural and religious diversity, with many Hindu temples, mosques, and churches existing in harmony.

Tourist Places

Yercaud is a beautiful hill station located in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its scenic views, green forests, and pleasant climate. The place is a popular destination for trekking, boating, and birdwatching. Yercaud is also home to a number of ancient temples and ruins, showcasing the region's rich history and culture.

1. Yercaud

Location:   map.                                       

How to reach: The Yercaud hills are about 22 km uphill from the city of Salem. The easiest way to reach Yercaud would be to travel by train to Salem and hit the Ghat road climbing up to Yercaud. The Salem Central Bus Terminus has a frequent bus service to Yercaud. The distance from Salem bus stand to Yercaud is about 30 km.

The Mettur Dam is a hydroelectric dam located on the River Kaveri in Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the oldest dams in India and plays a crucial role in the state's power generation. The dam is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its scenic beauty and historical significance.

2. Mettur Dam

Location:     map.                                       

How to reach: Mettur Dam from Salem, you can take a bus or hire a taxi. The distance between Salem and Mettur Dam is approximately 110 km, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours by bus or car. The dam is located on the Kaveri River and is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty and hydroelectric power plant.

Sankagiri Fort, located in Salem district of Tamil Nadu, is a 16th-century fort built by the Vijayanagara Empire. The fort is surrounded by imposing walls and features several sculptural works and inscriptions. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and architecture.

3. Sankagiri Fort

Location:   map.                                       

How to reach:  Sankagiri Fort is located approximately 43 km from Salem in Tamil Nadu, India. The fort can be reached by road, and the journey takes around 1hours to 1.5 hour depending on the traffic. There are also frequent bus services available from Salem to Sankagiri, which take around 1.5 hours to reach the fort. Additionally, private vehicles can also be used to reach the fort for a one-way trip.

Bagawath Ramanujar Manimandapam is a renowned institution located in Salem, Tamil Nadu, India. It was established in 1978 and is affiliated with the University of Madras. The institution offers a variety of courses in engineering, arts, and science streams. The library of Bagawath Ramanujar Manimandapam is well-stocked with a vast collection of books, journals, and other educational resources. The institution has a strong focus on research and innovation, and has produced many notable alumni.

4.Bagawath Ramanujar Manimandapam

Location:     map.                                       

How to reach: To reach from Salem, you can take a bus or hire a taxi. The temple is located about 10 kilometers from the city center and can be reached via the Salem-Bharathi Nagar road. Alternatively, you can take a train to the Salem railway station and then take a taxi or bus from there. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes depending on the mode of transportation you choose.

Kurumpapatti Zoological Park is a popular tourist destination in Salem, Tamil Nadu, India. It is home to a wide range of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The park is situated on a hillock, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is a great place for nature lovers and families to spend a day.

5. Kurumpapatti Zoological Park

Location:   map.                                       

How to reach: To reach Kurumbapatti Zoological Park from Salem Junction, you can take a train or bus from Salem Junction to Dharmapuri. From Dharmapuri, you can take a bus or taxi to Kurumbapatti, which is located about 25 km away. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Alternatively, you can hire a cab or take a self-driving car from Salem Junction to Kurumbapatti, which takes around 1.5 hours.

Vainu Bappa Observatory is a popular astronomical observatory located in India. It is named after the famous Indian astronomer, Vainu Bappa. The observatory is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and advanced telescopes that enable scientists to study the universe in detail. The observatory also hosts a number of astronomy events and programs for the public to engage with the wonders of the cosmos.

4. Vainu Bappa Observatory

Location:    map.                                       

How to reach: To reach Vainu Bappu Observatory from Vellore, you can take a bus or drive via the NH47. The observatory is located about 30 km north of Vellore. You can also hire a taxi or book a private car through local ride-hailing services like Ola or Uber. The observatory is open for public visits and guided tours can be arranged in advance.

Cup and Saucer Waterfalls" is a unique and visually stunning natural wonder located in the Canadian Rockies. It's a rare formation where water cascades through a narrow rock channel, creating the illusion of a cup and saucer. This natural phenomenon is a popular spot for photography and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

4. Cup and Saucer Waterfalls

Location:    map.                                       

How to reach: You can reach the spot by bus or cabs from the Vellore cantonment station or the Vellore town station which would take you a maximum of 15 minutes.