Things To Do Salem

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Places To Visit In Salem

1008 Lingam Temple

Located in Ariyanoor, about 14 km away from Salem, 1008 Lingam is one of the most famous temples of the city. Devoted to Lord Shiva, the temple has 1008 Lingams placed in a way which 1007 Lingams surround the main one. The 1008th Lingam is the one with the statue of Nandi (a holy cow) placed in the front. The temple was constructed in 2010 and is managed by a private department under the Vinayaka Mission.

Government Museum

The Government Museum of Salem is home to several archaeological artefacts and historical objects, belonging to the same region. It is an old museum and is situated just two kilometres from the city centre. It is also equipped with a library and occasionally organises lectures and events. Tour guides can help to organise School visits for children. History and Facilities of Salem Government MuseumThe Salem Museum is a significant historical attraction and was constructed in 1979. This Museum houses a rare collection of various sculptures and intricate artefacts. It exhibits the glory of the Salem region in its full bloom. The gracefully carved stone sculptures are in praise of the kings of earlier centuries. The Government Museum of Salem is a must-visit destination for those interested in history and anthropology.Moreover, there are archaeological, numismatics, zoological and geological items among others. The Museum is often used for educational purposes and is an exciting place to take children. It holds educational films and lectures at regular intervals. The services of a pet tourist guide can also be requested.Entry and TimingsThe government museum of Salem operates from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM every day. It is closed on Fridays, second Saturdays, and public holidays. The entry for the Government Museum of Salem is Rs.5 for Indians and Rs.2 for Indian students. Foreign nationals have to pay an entry fee of Rs.50. The fee is rupees 25 for international students. There is, however, no entry fee on Monday.Best time to VisitThe best time to visit the Government Museum of Salem is a Sunday. Tourists are, however, advised that the facilities can get quite crowded.How to ReachIt would take about 15 minutes to reach the Government Museum of Salem on a bike or buy a car. Travellers can easily find an auto rickshaw to take them to the museum from the city centre. Read More

Jama Masjid

The historic Jama Masjid stands tall in the heart of Salem. It is the oldest mosque in Salem. The 135 feet tall minaret is located on 1.5 acres of land. It is believed to be one of the tallest structures built in South India during its time. The Mysore ruler, Tipu Sultan, is supposed to have built it. Despite the rich cultural history and astounding architecture, Jama Masjid emanates a peaceful and calm vibe into its vicinity. Jama Masjid of any town or city refers to the chief mosque of that place. It is where the Muslim worshippers gather to offer their prayers, especially on Fridays and during Ramzan, Bakrid and other festivals. These mosques are often referred to as Friday mosques or congregational mosques. Fridays are packed with ardent worshippers. The prayer hall of this grand structure is on elevated ground. It is decorated with elaborate granite pillars. The Jama Masjid skillfully flaunts the intricate jali work and floral ornamentation. The ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan, is believed to have built the Jama Masjid in Salem around 300 years ago. It is also thought that he would offer prayers here regularly. He also carries the reputation of having laid its first brick. How to ReachThe Jama Masjid is located in the heart of Salem. It is hidden on the banks of river Thirumanimutharu along Bazaar Street. Since it is close to the city’s center, one can easily find an auto-rickshaw to reach the mosque. Entry and TimingsThe Jama Masjid of Salem is open to visitors between 6 AM and 8 PM every day. The entire place can be explored in less than two hours. Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit Jama Masjid would be during festivals like Eid when one can witness it in all its glory. The mosque is decorated with multiple lights that make it shine at night. During the festival of Ramzan, the mosque arranges iftar dinners after sunset, when the fast is broken. On regular days, it is recommended to visit after 3 PM, especially in the months from October to February. Read More

The Kalangi Siddhar Temple of Salem is one of the 18 Tamil Siddha temples. It is well-known for the medicinal herbs that are believed to cure a wide array of ailments. Pilgrims visit the temple regularly to attend the various pujas and also to take a dip in the holy streams surrounding it. There are several perennial wells, small reservoirs and tiny waterfalls present around the Kalangi Siddhar temple. The water that flows from these places is believed to have curative powers. Architecture and HistoryThe Siddhar Saint who is related to Kanjamalai is known by the name of Kalangi Nathar. The word Kanja is associated with gold, iron and copper and the word malai refers to a hill. He was among the 18 well-known Siddhars of South India. The Kalangi Siddhar temple was built in his memory. The temple is well known for herbs that have a potential for miraculous cures. Pilgrims usually take a dip in the surrounding holy water bodies.How to Reach Kalangi Siddhar TempleThe Kalangi Siddhar temple is located at the foot of Kanja Malai. It is well connected to Salem city. The nearest railway station is the Salem railway station. One can easily take an auto-rickshaw from the city to the temple.Entry and other detailsOptimum duration of a visit is 1 - 2 hours. The operating hours of the temple are from 6 AM to 8 PM on all days. Like most temples, it is also closed during noon from 1 PM to 4 PM. There are daily pujas offered each morning. Best Time to Visit Kalangi Siddhar templeThere are special pujas held in the temple on the new moon and full moon days. It is considered highly powerful to worship at this temple on a New Moon Day. There are regular pujas offered each morning. Read More

The Kandaswamy Temple, which is also known as Kalipatti, is a Murugan temple. It is one of the richest temples in the Salem district. The temple was built in the 18th century and is devoted to Lord Murugan. The Pazhani Kavundar founded the Kalipatti Kandaswamy Temple. It was built in the 18th century by Katteri Lakshmana Kavundar. ‘Karun Sambal’ is derived from a snake’s poison and is used as an antidote to treat the devotees that visit the temple. The Kandaswamy temple is decorated with chariots that are known as Chithra Ther and Vinayaka Ther. In the event of festivals, the chariots are pulled around the temple. During the Thaipusam Festival in January, a cattle fair is held at the temple. This is considered the most significant cattle fair in the country. TimingsThe Kalipatti Kandaswamy Temple is open to visitors on all days from 6 AM to 8 PM. Since it’s a holy place, the entry is free. Pets are strictly prohibited. Cameras are allowed.How to reachThe Kalipatti Kandaswamy Temple is located in the village of Kalipatti and is about 20 km from Salem. It is situated on the Tiruchengode - Salem road. Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit the Kalipatti Kandaswamy Temple is in January, during the Thaipusam festival. There are special pujas and events held at the temple during this time and you can witness it at the peak of its festivities. The biggest cattle fair in the country is also held here during the Thaipusam festival. On regular days, it is recommended to visit the temple in the afternoon and spend about 3 hours exploring it. There is no restriction on the amount of time that one can spend on its premises. Read More

The Kottai Mariamman Temple is located on the banks of river Tirumanimutthar. It is regarded as one of the oldest pilgrimage centres of the city of Salem. The presiding deity at this temple is Goddess Kottai Mariamman. Pilgrims travel from near and distant places to seek blessings at this temple and to soak up the calm and quietness. Architecture and HistoryThe Mariamman Temple is also known as Kottai Maria Peri. It was considered the watchman god of Salem fort during the pre-British period. Any pilgrim who wishes to have darshan of the symbol has to twist and bow down before entering the sanctum santorum. In the sanctum, one sees that Mother Mariamman has her feet on the leader of an evil spirit and also has lotus buds under her feet.The Sannadhi Mandapam has nine stone columns in it. The base of the columns has intricate figures portraying a fan loving the Amman at the base of the Parrot Mandapam (or Kili mandapam). It also flaunts a second sculpture representing Amman fighting off a devil with her legs.Devotees visit the temple to seek answers to all sorts of troubles. Some people visit this sanctuary to find solutions for money related issues or even physical ailments. They also offer silver and gold pieces in the temple’s hundi.Entry and TimingsThe operating hours of the Kottai Mariamman Temple are from 6 AM to 11 AM and 4 PM to 9 PM. Since it is a religious place, the entry is not charged.Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit the Kottai Mariamman Temple is during the popular Aadi festival, which takes place in July and August. This festival is the temple’s most famous feature and is celebrated with the highest grandeur. Lakhs of devotees travel to the Kottai Mariamman temple to be a part of the joyous occasion. The celebration lasts 15 days and has several events and street performers.How to ReachThe temple is located very close to the city’s centre. Travellers can take an auto-rickshaw or can hire a private car. Read More

The Kurumbapatti Zoological Park is filled with different species of animals but is more famous for its varied bird species like the white peacock and multicoloured cranes. There are new animals constantly being added to this enclosure. The Kurumbapatti Zoological Park is spread over 11.5 hectares of reserve forest land, and it is located at the foot of the Shervaroyan Hills of the Eastern Ghats. The Park was developed at the cost of Rs. 10 Cr. There are separate enclosures for rare species of birds and animals and a children’s playground as well. The entire area has a refreshing forest feel and is an ideal picnic spot for families or groups. Children, especially, enjoy running around and spotting all the exotic species of animals and birds. Since the Kurumbapatti Zoological Park was built into a forest area, it has several natural enclosures for the wild animals. Specific regions that enclose the spotted deers and antelopes are very spacious. The zoo also encloses several watering holes. The entire enclosure gives one the experience of viewing the animals and birds in their natural habitat. How to Reach Kurumbapatti Zoological ParkKurumbapatti Zoological Park is located at a distance of 6 km from the city’s centre. It can be reached easily by an auto-rickshaw or any other form of private transport. The roads are maintained well and are almost always in good condition. Once inside, the zoological park has stone pathways. Entry and TimingsThe entry fee for adults is Rs.10 and for children is Rs.5. The prices for still cameras and video cameras are separate. The parking fee for a four-wheeler is Rs. 25. The Kurumbapatti Zoo Park is open from 9 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week except Tuesday. It takes an average of two and a half hours for visitors to cover the entire Zoological Park.Contact details: 0427 - 2415097Best TIme to VisitThe entire area of Kurumbapatti Zoological Park is covered with dense trees. It makes the overall experience pleasant and refreshing. However, the summer months can get unbearable owing to the extremely high temperatures. Therefore, it is advisable to not plan a visit during the summer. Read More

The picturesque Mookaneri lake is spread over 58 acres. It is a significant water body in Salem City and also a popular tourist attraction. The Lake boasts of facilities like a park and seating arrangements which have boosted its spot as a tourist attraction. The Mookaneri Lake was initially a 39-acre water body by the Public Works Department. It was resurrected in 2010 by the Salem Citizens Forum using 87 lakhs under the public initiative. It is now an abode to a varied species of birds and flora. There are several other facilities like a park, seating arrangements for visitors, a parking lot for vehicles among all else. Families frequent the lake in the morning and evening hours to spend their time pleasantly without burning a hole in the pocket. There is a natural auditorium also set up in the Lake’s premises. Local fisherman and enthusiasts try their hand at fishing, especially during weekends. The abundance of water present in Mookaneri Lake has also significantly improved the groundwater levels of the surrounding areas. How to ReachThe best part about Mookaneri Lake is its presence within the city’s limits. Residents staying in the nearby areas can easily reach the lake by walk. The others can take an auto-rickshaw or a private vehicle to reach the lake.Entry and TimingsThere is no entry fee for Mookaneri lake. It is also open for 24 hours a day on all days. Read More

The Oothumalai Hill consists of a cluster of Hindu temples. It is famous for its calm, peaceful atmosphere. The various temples on this hill amplify the religious significance of this tourist attraction. Oothumalai Hill is known to attract devotees and tourists in large numbers. Sri Balasubramanian Temple is one of the important temples located on Oothumalai Hill. It is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is well known for its unique portrayal of the Lord. Among the other major attractions on this Hill are, the Shiva Temple with intricate engravings of Gods and Goddesses on the rocks, the Vishnu temple that is also known as the Sathyanarayana Temple - it is of great importance as it is one of the few Vishnu temples in this region. You can view the entire city of Salem from the top of Oothumalai Hill.How to ReachThe Oothumalai Hill is located 6 km from Salem, on the Seelanaickenpatti bypass road. Travellers can take an auto-rickshaw from the city or hire a private vehicle.Entry and TimingsOothumalai Hill has no fixed visitation hours. It is open to all on all days of the year. There is no entry fee charged. It is recommended to spend 3-4 hours to soak in the complete experience.Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit Oothumalai Hill would be during any of the religious festivals which are celebrated pompously in the temples over here. The view from the hill is spectacular, and the cool breeze adds to the pleasant atmosphere. On any other regular day, it is recommended to visit the Hill in the evening, when the Sun is not at its peak. Read More

Paravasa Ulagam is a water theme park that is located on National Highway No. 7, at a distance of 16 km from Salem. It is nestled amid a cold, hilly region surrounded by lush green trees on all sides. Paravasa Ulagam offers a wide range of activities like water games, video games, wave pool, go-karting, science park and waterfalls, curating an exciting water adventure for all its visitors. Paravasa Ulagam was started on a mere 6 acres of land and was opened to the public in 2004. Over the years, it has grown in capacity and has added many attractions. It is now spread over 15 acres of land with plans of future expansions. It is a must-visit as the water park offers a respite from the scorching city heat and helps one relax. Read More