How to get to Salem

Salem is a lively city in the state of Tamil Nadu, known as a major hub of the textile industry and the "Mango Capital" of India. Nestled amidst hills, it serves as an excellent starting point for trips to the Yercaud hill station, yet it is also interesting to travellers in its own right due to its southern charm. You can reach Salem in various ways: by using the local airport, the well-developed railway network, or by arriving by bus from neighbouring metropolises.

The fastest way to reach the city is by air. The local Salem Airport (SXV) receives flights connecting the region, allowing for significant time savings. This is the optimal choice for those who wish to avoid long overland journeys.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to nearby major aviation hubs. Airports in the cities of Tiruchirappalli (114 km) and Coimbatore (148 km) offer more flight options. Many travellers also choose the international airport in Bengaluru, located approximately 157 km away, from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

Contrary to outdated information, rail connectivity here is excellently developed: the city is served by the major Salem Junction (code SA). Trains arrive here from many corners of the country, including direct expresses from Chennai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, making train travel one of the most convenient options.

Thanks to its status as a vital transport hub, Salem is easily accessible for tourists travelling through southern India. If direct tickets are unavailable, you can travel to the neighbouring cities of Tiruchirappalli or Coimbatore, though this is rarely necessary as Salem station handles passenger traffic perfectly well.

Bus services in the region are very conveniently organised and cover a multitude of routes. A trip from the city of Tiruchirappalli will take about 3 hours, covering a distance of 121 km. A similar time is required for the journey from Coimbatore (about 150 km), from where both government and private buses run regularly.

For those departing from the major metropolis of Bengaluru, the journey will take about 6.7 hours (217 km). Tourists have access to buses of various classes, including comfortable sleepers with air conditioning, which turn a long drive on the roads of India into a pleasant journey.

Travelling by car or taxi offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops in picturesque places. The road from Tiruchirappalli (about 140 km) takes just 2.9 hours, making this route one of the fastest. Approximately the same time, about 3 hours, will be spent on the trip from Coimbatore (167 km).

If you plan to drive from Bengaluru, expect to spend about 4 hours on the road, covering a distance of 186 km. Hiring a car with a driver is a popular and safe option in India, allowing you to avoid the stress of local traffic and reach your hotel in comfort.

When planning a trip to this southern city, it is worth considering local specifics in advance so that your holiday passes as comfortably as possible without surprises. Here are some proven recommendations for tourists.

1. Clothing and Climate. It is hot in the region for most of the year, so opt for light clothing made of natural cotton. When visiting temples, modest attire covering your shoulders and knees is strictly required.
2. City Transport. The most convenient way to move short distances is by auto-rickshaw. Always agree on the price of the trip in advance or insist on using the meter.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Indian Rupee. Although cards are accepted in hotels, you will need cash, preferably in small denominations, for markets and small shops.
4. Health. Drink exclusively bottled water and check the seal integrity upon purchase. Avoid drinks with ice in street cafes.
5. Language. The main language is Tamil. English is understood in tourist spots and major hotels, but a couple of phrases in the local language ("Vanakkam" — Hello) will elicit sympathy from residents.
6. Etiquette. Traditionally, food here is eaten with the right hand. Be sure to remove your shoes when entering any home or temple.
7. Seasonality. If you wish to taste the famous local mangoes, plan your trip for their ripening season (usually May to June).
8. Safety. The city is generally safe, but keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places and at stations.

Observing these simple rules will help you adapt faster and focus on exploring the city's culture and attractions.