Salem, Tamil Nadu

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Salem (also: Salem, Tamil: சேலம் Celam [se ː lʌm ] ) is a city in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is completely surrounded by mountains inland Tamil Nadu nearly 300 kilometers southwest of the capital, Chennai ( Madras). Salem is the administrative seat of the district of Salem. With around 830,000 inhabitants ( 2011 census ) Salem is the fifth largest city of Tamil Nadu.

Salem is one of India's most important centers of the textile industry. In addition, the site for its steelworks is known, which is operated by the Steel Authority of India. Another major industry of the area is tourism. So Salem applies for example as a starting point for excursions into the one hour distant Yercaud Mountains, which are particularly noted for their cool, pleasant climate. The road and rail network is relatively well developed in the region. Salem has its own airport, on the run but currently no scheduled flights.

The name of the place is probably due to its geographical location - the Tamil word Selam literally means " surrounded by hills ".