1 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

The Vellore Fort which is said to have been built during Channa Bommi Nayaka and Thimma Reddy Nayaka in the 15th century and happens to be one of the best examples of military architecture in South India. These two who built Vellore fort were Chieftains under Sadashiva Raya who was the ruler of Vijayanagara at that time. It is one of the most massive forts built during its time and is considered as one of the unique forts in India. It is spread over an area of more than 500 meters, situated at an altitude of 220m. Located right in the centre of the city, it has a giant moat at its entrance, where 10,000 crocodiles used to swim earlier.

2 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

St. John’s Church is one of the oldest churches in the Vellore Diocese which follows the Anglican tradition. Located in the heart of the city in Vellore and within the campus of Vellore Fort, it is a church that is most visited by the locals and also one of religious significance. Built-in 1846, the interiors of the church has a touch of charm to it. At present, the majority of the church is in association with the Christian Medical College & Hospital. The church also works with several NGOs and supports schools and hostels.

3 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Archeological Survey of India Museum is neighbouring to the Fort of Vellore. This museum exhibits various kinds of ancient stones, as old as 1000 years, Statues, stone carvings, coins and exhibits that enlighten us about the history. Few of the sculptures are said to exist from the 8th century. The museum takes a minimum of 2 hours to stroll around and experience the rich history.

4 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

The Sripuram Golden Temple is a sight to behold, and it is situated in Tirumalaikodi at Southern Vellore, Tamil Nadu. The golden temple sits inside a spiritual park or ‘Spiritual Oasis’, and a star path leads the visitors towards it. The main feature of the temple has to be that it is covered in real gold foil and it is regarded as the biggest and the only temple to do that. The inauguration took place on 24th August 2007, and it was inaugurated by Narayani Amma. The chief deity of the temple is Sri Lakshmi Narayani or Maha Lakshmi, who is the Goddess of wealth in Hinduism. Sashasra Deepam or one thousand eight lamps is a ceremony that is performed in the temple every morning and in the evening. Pilgrims enjoy the beautiful natural park when they visit the temple. The best time to visit the temple is every day as the body decided to keep it open 365 days in a year.

2 km
from city center 5 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Periyar Park centrally located in the city of Vellore is a spot frequently visited by both locals and tourists. It is a park with state-of-the-art facilities for joggers, family picnics and other pastimes. This place is best known for its vibrant green matting all over and the different species of birds here. The park has an entirely separate section for birds; it features a 1-kilometre long path for charming promenades, attractive benches, a roller-skating area, fully-functioning toilets and a children’s play area with battery-powered cars and motorcycles. Periyar Park ensure the enjoyment of people of all ages!

4 km
from city center 6 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Virinjipuram Temple, which is popularly known as Sri Margabandeeswarar Temple, is located about 14 kilometres away from Vellore City, in Virinjipuram Village. Situated in the state of Tamil Nadu on the southern bank of Palar River, the temple owes the beautiful artistic stonework on its walls and its palatial Dravidian architecture to the rulers of Chola Dynasty.

6 km
from city center 7 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Palamathi Hills also known as Balamathi Hills is an area belonging to the Eastern Ghats, which come under the location of Vellore, Tamil Nadu. Palamathi Hills consisting of the Otteri Lake and Palamathi Reserve Forest is a vantage point of the most breathtaking views in the region, isolated from pollution and the hustle-bustle of the main city area. The best time to visit Palamathi Hills is during the period of October to March for an experience accompanied by pleasant weather.

8 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Tipu Mahal and Hyder Mahal are two separate castles inside the premises of the Vellore Fort which is located in Vellore city of Tamil Nadu. Although the Vijayanagara Kings built the Vellore Fort and all the other buildings inside it in the 16th Century, Tipu Mahal and Hyder Mahal are known by the names of Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali who ruled over Mysore in the 18th Century. Both the palaces have undergone decades of climate change and pollution and are currently being looked after by the Archaeological Survey of India.

4 km
from city center 9 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Jalakandeswarar Temple is located in the city of Vellore, precisely within Vellore Fort. It is a Hindu place of worship in honour of Lord Shiva, who also goes by the name of Lord Jalakandeswarar. The temple is a magnificent representation of grand Vijayanagaram Architecture. Besides, one may also observe detailed sculptures dedicated to other Hindu deities such as Lord Vishnu, Goddess Mahalakshmi, Goddess Parvati, Lord Brahma, and Goddess Saraswathi.

64 km
from city center 10 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Located at a distance of 98 km from Vellore, the Kaigal fall is nestled amidst the Koundinya Wildlife sanctuary. The Kaigal waterfall derives its name from the village Kaigal, that surrounds it. Locally known as Dumukurallu waterfalls ( a Telugu word used for a sound resembling the sound of falling stones from above), Kaigal falls are perennial. The waterfall is subdivided into three cascading falls and waterfalls from a height of approximately 40 ft. The water forms several small pools at the bottom.

11 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

A quaint little hill station located in Vellore, Yelagiri is just three hours away from Bangalore, making it the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway. Spread a little over 30 square kilometres, and at a height of over 1100 metres above sea level, Yelagiri offers its tourists some beautiful places like the Jalagamparai falls, sweeping orchards and rose garden, among others. The ideal destination for nature lovers, Yelagiri is a town that is completely off the beaten tourist trail, lending it a quieter and much more peaceful vibe compared to other more famous hill stations nearby. Originally belonging to the Zamindar family of Yelagiri, the hill station began to gain popularity since the colonial rule, when it was used by the British as a summer getaway. Ever since then, it has been one of the hidden gems of South India, replete with rocky hills and natural scenic beauty, making it the perfect place to take a break from the fast-paced city life.

65 km
from city center 12 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

The Punganoor Lake is one of the most popular artificial lakes in Tamil nadu. The man made lake covers nearly 60 sq. meters of land. There is also a fountain in the middle and boating facilities are available.

79 km
from city center 13 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Known as the "Troy of the East" by the British, Gingee Fort is located in Villupuram District of Tamil Nadu, 160 kilometres from the state capital, Chennai and near the Union Territory of Puducherry. Locals have given the fort some notable names such as Senji, Chenji, Jinji or Senchi Fort. The majestic fort has three different hilltop citadels and a massive boundary of thick walls and cliffs. Owing to its enormous structure the fort is fortified to the extent that Shivaji, the Maratha king, named it as the "most impregnable fortress in India." Visiting the fort makes one learn the reason for why it has been called by such influential names. As you reach the fort, you realise that it has been located at the most strategic location which made it difficult for the enemies to enter its premise. The fort indeed is a result of genius minds.

20 km
from city center 14 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Located at a distance of 26 km from Vellore, Arcot is a small town in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Flanked by River Palar, the town boasts of a rich history. The city is known for being the ancient trade route between Madras and Salem or present day Chennai and Bangalore. Earlier known as Thiruvazhundur, Arcot was the headquarters of Nawab of Carnatic and was also ruled by the Cholas, Marathas, Pallavas, Nayaks and Bikapur Sultans. The highlight of the town however, is its sweet meat called ‘Makkan Peda’ which is popular worldwide. Among the most popular attraction of town are the Delhi Gate and Arcot Fort.

22 km
from city center 15 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Situated under the Javadu Hills in Amirthi near Vellore in Tamil Nadu, Amirthi Zoological Park is a massive zoological park that is also one of the top tourist attractions in the region. Sprawling over 25 hectares, the highlight of the zoological park is its several mesmerizing waterfalls. Besides, half of the park has been developed into a zoological spot for the tourists while the other half of it has been developed into a wildlife sanctuary. Boasting of several varieties of rare and exotic wildlife species, you can also enjoy trekking in the park. Among the variety of animals present here are spotted deer, hedgehog, reason monkeys, red headed parrots, love birds, wild cats, eagles, ducks, pigeons, wild parrots, rabbits, and pythons etc.

35 km
from city center 16 out of 16
Places To Visit in Vellore

Thirupardakal is a small district near Vellore which boasts of being home to the most unique and rare temples of Hinduism. The presiding deity is Lord Thirumal- a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, who stands on top of Lord Shiva to assert that Vaishnavism and Saivism are one and the same.