Sightseeing Highlights
Yercaud
hills have several scenic spots and places of historical
interest and offer a breathtaking view from its peak and on Nature trails.
Many
temples in and around, Mariamman
Temples, especially the famous Kottai Marriamman temple, dedicated to Goddess Marimman,
considered to be an incarnation of Goddess Shakti.
Among
the Shiva temples, the Kailasanath
temple in Tharamangalam is known for its architectural beauty.
Kumaragiri Temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and Kothansaraman temple in
Ayothiappattanam, are worth a visit.
Yercaud Lake is the main attraction with pleasant gardens and
boating can be enjoyed here.
Other Attractions
You can visit Mettur Dam built over
the river Cauvary, a popular picnic site with popular parks and huge lawns.
Fast flowing Kiliyur
Falls are just located 3 km. from Yercaud Lake and falls from a height of 300ft. Enjoy
boating, swimming and serene beauty of this engaging modern town with rustic
ambience. Tourism Information
Tamil
Nadu Tourism Complex,
No.2, Wallajah Road,
Chennai - 600 002.
Ph: 044-25368358
E-Mail:
ttdc@vsnl.com
Salem is a bustling town with modern
infrastructure and historic origins is located in Tamil Nadu. Nestled in the
foothills of Yercuda hills, the district is well known for its picturesque
location and scenic beauty. The origins of the name 'Salem' is known to have been derived from the
area around the hills, as known in ancient inscriptions as Shalya. Archeological
excavations have uncovered inscriptions related to the Ganga
dynasties here. Salem was hotly contested by the
Mysore kings in
skirmishes with the British. Ultimately, in 1799 Lord Clive annexed it and Salem remained a military
base up till 1861.
In
the recent decades, it has enjoyed its popularity amongst tourists, due to
being surrounded by hills Nagaramalai, Jeragamalai, Kanjanamalai and
Godumalai. This picturesque location has led to its becoming a well traveled
destination in South India. Being at the base
of the Yecaud hills and near the Kiliyur falls, Salem offers several attractions to the
tourist ranging from exotic Nature trails to luxury hotels.
Salem is also near to the ancient abode
of Sitthars in Karanjimalai, where some believe they still exist. Sitthars were
mystics with extraordinary yogic powers and advanced skills in medicine. There
is a separate branch of native medical system called Sitthar medicine that is
being practiced to this day by a few people.
In
addition there are a number of ancient and important temples in and around the
city. Today apart from the scenic beauty, Salem is gained prominence as a hub of
textile industries and steel plants.
|