Home > The GReaT Divine Darshan > Salem
HOLY PLACES
IN SALEM
Salem, the spicy multitasker of Tamil Nadu, mixes mangoes, temples, and royal drama like it’s hosting a reality show with historical guests. Two thousand years ago, Roman emperors were busy sending silver coins this way—proof that Salem was trending internationally long before social media came along. Everyone wanted in—Pandyas, Pallavas, Tipu Sultan, the British, and probably a few confused tourists who thought they were heading to Ooty. But Salem doesn’t sweat the attention—it just keeps doing what it does best. It’s the Mango Capital, after all. Here, the mangoes are so sweet, they make gulab jamuns look insecure. One bite and you’ll forget your passwords and New Year’s resolutions. And let’s not forget the temples in Salem—not just sacred, but straight-up architectural overachievers. Some were built by Poligars, others are so old they probably watched dynasties rise and fall like TV serials. Every pillar has a story, and every gopuram could pass as ancient gossip carved in stone. The roads are a mix of ancient footprints and modern honks, the markets are louder than your family group chats, and the food? Let’s just say your diet won’t survive—but your soul will thank you. Salem’s the kind of place that gives you temple tales, mango stains, and enough history to flex at dinner parties. Ripe, spicy, and refreshingly no-nonsense—this city doesn’t try too hard. It’s already iconic.
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OUR Hotels
IN THE CITY, BY THE SACRED SITES 🏙
Zibe Salem by GRT Hotels
Zibe Salem by GRT Hotels isn’t just a stay—it’s a full-on glow-up. Right near Salem Junction, our 48+ rooms are so vibrant, even your bad moods take a nap. Selfie spots? Everywhere. You might fall for the mirror before the bed. Craving drama? The restaurant serves flavours that slap, and the banquet hall’s ready for any party—yes, even your “I survived Monday” bash. Outside, you’ve got Kannankurichi Lake for chill vibes, Kanjamalai Falls for hair-flip moments, and Paravasa Ulagam if you like screaming on purpose. Salem’s got handloom swag, shiny silver bling, and temples with more drama than a soap opera.
Zibe’s not just a vibe—it’s a main character moment. So show up like Thalaivar. Sunglasses flip mandatory.
OURDivine Destinations
TRAVEL THROUGH THE MUSEUMS OF FAITH 🛕
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1008 SHIVA & RAJARAJESHWARI TEMPLE SALEM ✨
Set atop a serene hillock in Ariyanoor, this modern Shiva temple features 1008 Lingams and a towering deity, offering panoramic views and peaceful devotion amidst Salem’s spiritual landscape.
Distance from Our Hotel16 km
Timing7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.FestivalMaha Shivarathri: (Feb-Mar)
Transportation CostFor assistance, please contact the front desk.
Disclaimer: The temple's timings are subject to change as per the operating committee's decisions.
About 1008 Shiva & Rajarajeshwari Temple, Salem:
- Located in Ariyanoor, approximately 14 km from Salem city centre, the temple is situated atop a scenic hillock.
- The temple was constructed in 2010 and is managed by a private department under the Vinayaka Mission institutions.
- It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its 1008 Shiva Lingams, a unique architectural and spiritual feature.
- 1007 Lingams are arranged in a circular fashion surrounding the main Lingam, which is accompanied by a majestic statue of Nandi, the sacred bull.
- At the entrance, a magnificent statue of Lord Ganesha welcomes devotees and visitors.
- The pathway to the hilltop is flanked by natural greenery and serene surroundings, offering an ideal setting for a peaceful walk.
- Devotees can either walk the scenic route or drive up to the temple, with adequate parking available.
- Each Lingam is said to be named after one of the 1,000 names of Lord Shiva, adding a spiritual dimension to the ascent.
- Along the path, one will encounter sculptures of Lord Muruga, enriching the devotional atmosphere.
- At the summit stands a 17-metre-tall statue of Sri Umayambigai Sametha Sri Arunachala Sundareswara, the main deity of the temple.
- The temple offers a tranquil view of the Sangagiri Hills, making it a spiritually uplifting and visually stunning location.
- Visitors are permitted to take photographs and videos, making it a popular spot for spiritual tourism and social media sharing.
- The temple complex includes food stalls, providing snacks and refreshments for visitors after darshan.
- Locker facilities are available for storing extra baggage and personal items securely.
- The temple is especially vibrant during festive days and Shivaratri, when large numbers of devotees visit for special rituals and celebrations.
- It has become a popular evening destination, ideal for both religious devotion and peaceful leisure.
ARULMIGU KOTTAIMARIAMMAN TEMPLE ✨
Nestled behind Dindigul Fort, this sacred Mariamman temple blends mystic architecture, healing beliefs, and centuries-old traditions rooted in Tamil folklore.
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Vasanthotsavam: (Apr-May)
Narasimhaswamy Brahmotsavam: (Mar)Sacred Food OfferedPongal
Disclaimer: The temple's timings are subject to change as per the operating committee's decisions.
About Arulmigu Sri Kottai Mariamman Temple:
- The city of Dindigul is not only famous for its historical and architectural significance but is also known for its strong association with Vasthu Shastra (traditional Indian architecture and spatial design).
- Dindigul Fort, a prominent historical landmark, is noted for its beauty and grandeur. It is believed to have an underground passage to Palani, allegedly used by Tipu Sultan during his time.
- Just behind this fort stands the Kottai Mariamman Temple—the name 'Kottai' meaning 'fort' in Tamil, indicating the temple's location.
- The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, a powerful and widely revered South Indian deity associated with rain, fertility, and healing.
- The idol of Mariamman is gracefully seated with eight hands—her left hands hold a bow, bowl, and weapons, while her right hands carry a snake, trident, skull, and bell.
- At the entrance of the shrine, there is a copper post called Kamba Thadi, a sacred element often associated with temple rituals.
- The temple is known as a place of healing and blessing, where devotees pray for fertility, childbirth, and relief from diseases such as smallpox and chronic illnesses.
- The idol is installed slightly deeper into the sanctum sanctorum compared to traditional temple architecture, enhancing its mystic appeal.
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