Best Things To Do In Salem, India

1. Visit Yercaud

Yercaud is settled in the Shevaroys range, one of the most beautiful hills in Tamil Nadu. Located at a distance of 22 km (13.7 mi) from the city of Salem, the hills stand at an altitude of 1515 m (4970.5 feet). The scenic beauty and cold climate are enough to tranquillize even the toughest traveller. Bird watchers can take a glimpse at the different species of bird life present in this area. If you’re looking to halt at this pace, the hotels are positioned at nearby locations with a great view for tourists to enjoy. The Shevaroy temple, Botanical garden, Big Lake, Killiyur Falls, and Pagoda point are some of the popular points of attraction in Yercaud.

Yercaud

Address: Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

2. Pray at the 1008 Lingam Temple

The 1008 Lingam temple of Salem is a famous temple that houses 1008 Shiva Lingams with a Nandi staged at the front of each of the Lingams. The temple has a huge courtyard with 107 Lingams surrounding the main temple. The 108th Lingam is the prominent one here. The Lingams present in the temple send out a divine tone that reflects amidst the chaos and hassle of the city. Devotees spend about an hour or more offering their prayers and reflecting upon their sins in this temple. There is an enormous Ganesha statue present at the foothills of the region. The temple can be easily located on road and offers a sense of peace to everyone who pays a visit to this temple.

1008 Lingam Temple

Address: 1008 Shiva Temple Salem, Srinagar - Kanyakumari Highway, Ariyanur, Salem, Tamil Nadu

3. Take a tour of the Sankagiri Fort

The Sankagiri fort is a prominent historical place situated 38 km (23.6 mi) away from the city of Salem. Because of its unique geography, the Fort served as an important military base for the local rulers like Tipu Sultan and Theeran Chinnamalai. The British then used this fort to control the nearby regions and also undertake criminal executions. You can find old jewels, guns and other historical relics at this fort. The Sankakiri fort paints a vivid picture of the British oppression during the colonial rule in the 19th century. Theeran Chinnamali was court-martialed and later executed in this fort for his direct involvement in the beheading of colonial Maxwell during the British Raj. The fort has also witnessed multiple clashes between the Pandyas, Delhi Sultans, the Vijayanagar empire, and the Marathas. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva near the fort. The Fort is now under the protection of the Archeological Survey of India and is a popular tourist destination. One needs to get to the top of the Fort to experience the scenic beauty and also remember the grotesque incidents that made this Fort an iconic location.

Sankagiri Fort

Address: Unnamed Road, VN Palayam, Sankari, Tamil Nadu 637301

4. Make a day trip to Mettur Dam

Mettur Dam is one of the iconic dams of South India. The beautiful Cauvery river flows beneath the dam and creates a vivid image for photography fanatics. The Dam welcomes inflow from various other sources like the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam and Kambini Dam situated in Karnataka, a neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. The staggering height of 214 feet (65.2 m) and a width of 171 feet (52.12 m) will set your gaze towards the sky. But the object in focus is never to be taken lightly. The Dam is regarded as a lifesaver of Tamil Nadu because of its ability to irrigate and provide water supply to 12 districts of Tamil Nadu. The best time to visit this Dam would be during the Aadi festival celebrated in the month of April. This is the time when the river Cauvery shows her mighty power by flowing with a great force. The nearby villages also celebrate the onset of monsoon during this time.

Mettur Dam

Address: Mettur Dam, P.N.Patti, Tamil Nadu 636402

5. Trek to the Kiliyur Falls

Kiliyur Falls in an amalgamation of scenic beauty, beautiful weather and a serenade of natural sounds. However, you need to cover 200 steps on foot to reach this place. The place is located at a distance of 4 km (2.5 mi) from Yercaud bus station. Get your camera ready to capture the beautiful waterfalls formed by the waters of Yercaud Lake. If you want to experience the waterfall in its full force, it is advised to visit this place right after the onset of monsoon season. A little heads up while you trek your way towards the waterfall because the place is void of any shops and restaurants close by. You may carry your own pack of snacks to refill along the way. Elderly people and kids may find it hard to trek the rough terrains that lead to the falls.

Kiliyur Falls

Address: Kiliyur Falls, Killiyur Road, Pattipadi, Tamil Nadu

Get a taste of intriguing South India

Salem is a city of vibrant culture and ancient history which makes up for most of its popular destinations. If you’re up for some more fun with your family and friends, you can also visit other destinations near Salem, such as the Puravasa Ulagam waterpark. You can also visit the famous Linga Bhairavi temple of the Isha Foundation. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and set yourself into a wonderful journey to the ancient city of Salem.