Also known as Mango City, Salem is located about 160 kms north-east of Coimbatore and is the fifth largest city in Tamil Nadu by population. Although blessed with nature’s stunning beauty and man-made wonders, Salem was a less frequented city due to its connectivity by air. But, not anymore! A new initiative by the Government of India known as UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) now offers direct flight from Chennai to Salem.
If you are excited about the trip already, here are a few things to see and do in Salem that would sort your itinerary out.
1. Relish Panoramic Views from Yercaud Hills
About an hour from the main city of Salem, Yercaud Hills attract tourists with its lush greenery. Apart from basking amid the mesmerising views here, you can also indulge in several fun activities at the Yercaud Lake, take a walk through the nearby coffee plantations or get astounded by the beauty of the waterfalls in its vicinity.
2. Visit the Significant Landmark: 1008 Lingam Temple
Tamil Nadu is famous for its temples and the dazzling architecture they come with. 1008 Lingam Temple in Salem is another prominent example of gorgeous architecture. As the name goes, the temple has 1007 Shiv lingam surrounding the primary i.e. the 1008th Shiv Lingam. A gigantic Ganesha statue at the foothills will also leave you stunned. The magnificent temple is about 30 minutes from the main city and is a great place to spend your weekend in peace and tranquility.
Read More: Exploring Kandla in Gujarat Now Easier, Thanks to the new UDAN Scheme!
3. Check Out the Mettur Dam
Listed among the man-made wonders, Mettur Dam is one of the largest dams in India. When planning an itinerary for Salem, make sure you include this less crowded attraction to the list. Built on River Kaveri, Mettur Dam will enthrall you with its mammoth expanse. Enjoy a picnic with your loved ones here.
4. Relax and Revive at Kiliyur Falls
Next in the list is Kiliyur Falls! Soak in the soothing views from this 300 feet high waterfall and experience absolute bliss. Relax and revive your mind, body and spirit at this serene location. Located in the Servaroyan hill range of the Eastern Ghats, the Kiliyur Falls also enjoy close proximity to Yercaud Lake. The ideal time to visit this beauty is during the monsoon. Drench in the waterfall and take home unforgettable memories!
5. Seek Blessings at Bathrakaliamman Temple
Bathrakaliamman Temple is an architectural gem apart from being a popular religious shrine for the Hindus. Located in Mecheri in Salem, the temple attracts lakhs of devotees every year. Get allured with the detailed carving of thousands of miniature idols at this temple, built in typical Dravidian architecture.
6. Explore the Ruins of Sankagiri Fort
When in Salem, you will also get an opportunity to travel back in time! Reserve a spot for the Sankagiri Fort in your ‘TO DO LIST IN SALEM’. Built in the 15th century by the renowned Vijaynagar Empire, this 40 feet tall fort was under the control of Tipu Sultan and later, used as an army base for the British. Enveloped with lush greenery and hills, you will get to enjoy panoramic views of a picturesque landscape from the fort. Explore the ruins and enjoy walking in the rocky terrains.
Read More: Travel to Jaisalmer with the UDAN Scheme and Add These Day Trips to Your Itinerary!
7. Go for a Tête-à-Tête with Nature at Kurumbapatti Zoological Park
Sprawled across 11.5 acres of reserved forest, Kurumbapatti Zoological Park is just 30 minutes from the main city of Salem. An ideal place to get closer to nature with your family and friends, you can witness a variety of parakeets, deer, tortoises, elephants, peacocks and much more here. The primary attraction of this zoo are it’s monkeys. Soak in the beauty of the flora and fauna while your tiny tots have a gala time at the children’s playground.
8. Experience the Thrilling Coracle Rides at Hogenakkal Falls
This one is not to be missed at all! Situated on the Kaveri river, the magnificent Hogenakkal Waterfalls are about 250 metres above sea level. Take an exhilarating bike ride with your buddies or hire a cab with your family to visit the serene falls and witness its beauty from a height of 15-65 feet.
This place is also famous for coracle rides and sacred baths. You can also try swimming if you are an excellent swimmer or get your hands on the rare and the oldest Carbonatite rocks found near the waterfall. The ideal time to visit Hogenakkal Falls is from July to October.
