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How to Get to Salem

How to Get to Salem

Salem Tamil Nadu, India Travel Guide

Air Travel to Salem

Airports Near Salem

Salem Airport (SXV) serves as a domestic airport with limited connectivity.

Major Hubs

  • Salem Airport (SXV): Domestic, limited flights.
  • Coimbatore International Airport (CJB): Approx. 160 km west, major international.
  • Chennai International Airport (MAA): Approx. 350 km east, major international.

Flight Routes & Airlines

You will not find direct international flights to Salem (SXV). International travelers typically fly into Chennai (MAA) or Coimbatore (CJB).

Connectivity

  • Salem Airport (SXV): For THE most part alliance Air, flights to Chennai and Bengaluru.
  • Coimbatore (CJB) & Chennai (MAA): Major domestic and international airlines.
  • International connections from CJB/MAA to Southeast Asia, Middle East, some European connections.

SXV Facilities

Salem Airport (SXV) offers basic facilities within its small terminal.

Major Airport Facilities

Coimbatore (CJB) and Chennai (MAA) are modern airports. They feature duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange services, and car rental counters.

Airport Transfer Options

From Salem Airport (SXV) to Salem city, hire taxis or auto-rickshaws. From CJB or MAA, taxis, ride-sharing (Ola/Uber), state-run/private buses, or direct trains to Salem Junction are available.

Flight Booking & Pricing

Flight Price Factors

  • Prices change based on season.
  • Peak holiday periods and festivals influence costs.
  • Domestic connections to Salem (SXV) are less frequent and can be more expensive.
  • Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Booking Advice

  • Booking in advance is advisable to secure better rates.
  • Especially for travel during high season or festivals.
  • Look for promotions and discounts.
  • Compare prices across different platforms.

Intercity Travel & Road Conditions

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

From Coimbatore or Chennai to Salem, taxis, including pre-paid taxis or ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber, are available for intercity travel.

Bus Services

Frequent state-run (SETC, TNSTC) and private bus services connect Coimbatore and Chennai to Salem.

Trains

Direct trains are available from Chennai Egmore or Central, and Coimbatore Junction to Salem Junction.

Rail & Bus Connections

Salem Junction Railway

Salem Junction (SA) is a major railway junction. It connects well with various cities across India.

Information

  • Connections: Chennai, Coimbatore, Bengaluru, Madurai, Trichy, Kochi.
  • Train Types: Express, Superfast, and Passenger trains.
  • Booking: Online through the IRCTC website or app is suggested for convenience.

Salem Bus Stands

Salem Central Bus Stand (New Bus Depot) functions as a major hub.

Services Overview

  • Services: Frequent to cities across Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.
  • Routes: Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Trichy, Erode, Bengaluru, Kochi.
  • Operators: Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC), SETC, and private operators.

Self-Drive Car Rentals

Self-driving car rentals are available, but less common for tourists owing to tough driving conditions.

Requirements & Considerations

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) along with a valid national driving license.
  • Road conditions vary; national highways are generally well-maintained, smaller roads less so.
  • Indian roads present challenges due to varied traffic, aggressive driving, and a lack of strict lane discipline.

Car Rentals with Drivers

Car rentals with drivers are widely available through local agencies and major tour operators.

Recommended Option

  • This option is recommended for tourists.
  • Removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and traffic.
  • Drivers are familiar with local routes and customs.

Road Safety & Regulations

  • Driving laws: drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seatbelts: mandatory for all occupants in cars.
  • Helmets: mandatory for two-wheelers.
  • Driving at night: not recommended for foreigners unfamiliar with conditions.
  • Traffic hazards: varied traffic including vehicles, pedestrians, and animals.
  • Aggressive road behavior styles and a lack of strict lane discipline are common.

Departure Details

Exit Fees & Taxes

No particular exit fees or taxes are levied at airports, seaports, or land borders beyond what is typically included in airline the price of admission for international travel.

Overview

  • Departure costs are generally incorporated into ticket fares.
  • Review your ticket details for a breakdown of charges.
  • Always check current regulations closer to your travel date.

Departure Procedures & Timing

Plan your departure procedures and timing carefully.

Arrival Times

  • Airports: Arrive at least 2-3 hours before domestic flights.
  • Airports: Arrive 3-4 hours before international flights (for check-in, security, and immigration).
  • Train or Bus: Arrive at least 30-60 minutes prior to your scheduled departure.

SXV Departure Facilities

Salem Airport (SXV) offers limited facilities for departing travelers.

Major Airport Facilities

Major airports like Coimbatore (CJB) and Chennai (MAA) provide lounges, eatery collections, shops, plus bags services.

Railway & Bus Stand Facilities

Salem Junction Railway Station and the Central Bus Stand offer minimal waiting facilities, food stalls, and lavatories.

Useful Resources

Car Rental Resources

To find and compare car hire possibilities, check these platforms:

Booking Platforms

  • DiscoverCars.com for comparing deals.
  • Look for local agencies offering car rentals with operators.
  • Negotiate rates and terms directly with companies.

First Aid & Security

Essential items for health and safety during your travels.

Providers

Online Booking Platforms

Flights

For flight comparisons and deals, use Skyscanner or Dollar Flight Club.

Visas

Simplify your visa application with IVisa or VisaHQ.

Insurance

Secure travel insurance from World Nomads or SafetyWing.

Travel Planning Tip

Consider using these sources of information to streamline your trip arrangements, from booking flights and accommodation to managing visas and insurance.

How to Get to Salem. Flights, Transportation, Airlines