Salem is the fourth largest city in Tamilnadu. The city is surrounded by hills. In fact, the name Salem is derived from the word "sailam" meaning an area surrounded by mountains.Salem is also known as the "Steel city" and "Mango city". History of Salem dates back to third century B.C. The city was a part of the Pandyas, Pallavaand Vijayanagara Empire.After the defeat of Tipu Sultan in the Third Anglo-Mysore War in 1792, the State of Mysore's border was re-aligned, and the British formed the Salem district under Madras Presidency. There are numerous forts and temples within the city which date back to a previous era altogether.
Salem is a a Geologist's paradise and is rich in a variety of important minerals like Magnesite, Dunite, Bauxite, Limestone, Iron ore, Quartz, Feldspar and Soapstone, Granites etc.
As a district, Salem has its significance in various aspects.Salem is one of the major producers of traditional silver anklets, which are popular among women. Salem is a major textile centre in Tamil Nadu and also houses a number of sago factories.
Stanley reservoir also called the Mettur Dam is one of the largest Dam in the country and forms the primary source of water supply for many districts. The dam, the park, the major hydroelectric power stations and hills on all sides make Mettur a tourist attraction. Yercaud is a nature lover's paradise and is located in the Shevaroys range of hills in the Eastern Ghats. The hill station is named owing to the abundance of forest near the lake, the name signifying Lake Forest. As a popular tourist destination, Yercaud is also called as Jewel of the South. Kiliyur falls, Yercaudlake ,Shevaroytemple,Mehmura temple and Pagoda point are few of the must visit tourist spot. Scenically, Yercaud is as enchanting and picturesque as the hill stations on the Eastern Ghats and trekking will be an experience. 
Hogenakkal waterfalls referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India," is located 64Km from salem city.It is known for medicinal baths and Coracle rides, projecting itself as a major tourist attraction in Tamilnadu. Carbonatite rocks in this site are considered to be the oldest of its kind in South Asia and one of the oldest in the world. There is a fort at Sankagiri on a hillock which is said to have been the holding of `TheeranChinnamalai`; an indigenous warrior who fought against the oppression of the British.
There are other tourist destinations near salem like Kailasanathar temple, Sri KodandaRamar temple,Namakkal Anjaneyar temple, Hoggenekkal, Akash Ganga of Kolli hills, Koduveri falls and many more. Salem is well connected by road and Train services.There are plenty of Luxury Hotels and resorts in Salem and Yercaud, providing comfort and value to your time.
Last but not the least Salem is well known for its cusine, Mango rasam and Thattuvada set are some of those which you should never miss.
So, gear up an intellectual feast in our two-day academic extravaganza coupled with a fun filled break in our delightful city.