Take a trip down south to explore the 9 best places to visit in Vellore
Vellore, a historical city in the northeastern region of Tamil Nadu, is situated on the banks of the Palar Vellore river. Vellore is often known as “The Fort City” because of the magnificent Vellore Fort in the city’s centre. It is a perfect destination to see Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural legacy through its temples.
Vellore is well-known for its forts and temples. It is also renowned for its cuisine, particularly for briyani. On the outskirts of Vellore is a little hill town named Yelagiri. It is a city that is expanding quickly, adjacent to Coimbatore and Chennai.
Several dynasties controlled Vellore, including the Pallavas, the Cholas, the Vijayanagara, the Rashtrakuta, the Carnatic, and the British. All of them left their imprints on the city’s architecture.
According to mythology, the land where the town presently sits was formerly encircled by Velan (Babul) Trees, which gave the region the name Vellore. Vellore is on its way to becoming one of India’s Smart Cities due to the various changes.
Things to do in Vellore
Vellore, a charming city in Tamil Nadu, is a great place. Enjoy the picturesque town of Vellore. Go for a nature walk on the banks of the River Palar. Spend memorable moments with your family and friends at several remarkable historical structures and religious sites.
A regular traveller tries to fit as much as possible into a single holiday. Here are 20 excellent destinations for short trips from Chennai.
The top 9 exciting places to visit in Vellore are-
1. Vellore Fort
The Vellore Fort, which is supposed to have been constructed in the 15th century by Channa Bommi Nayaka and Thimma Reddy Nayaka, is one of the best specimens of military architecture in South India.
These two Chieftains who constructed Vellore Fort were subordinate to Sadashiva Raya, the monarch of Vijayanagara at the time.
It is one of the most extensive forts built during the period and one of the most distinctive forts in India. It occupies an area greater than 500 meters and is located at an elevation of 220 meters, making it the most admirable tourist place in Vellore.
It is situated in the centre of the city and features a massive moat at its entrance, where 10,000 crocodiles formerly swam. To put it simply, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Vellore.
2. Srilakshmi Golden Temple
The Sripuram Srilakshmi Golden Temple is located in Tirumalaikodi, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, and is one of the best tourist places in Vellore. The golden temple is situated in a spiritual park or ‘Spiritual Oasis,’ and tourists are guided to it by a star trail.
It is the largest and only temple coated with genuine gold foil and is recognised as its defining characteristic. The ceremony took place on August 24, 2007, and was presided over by Narayani Amma.
Sri Lakshmi Narayani, or Maha Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of riches, is the temple’s primary deity. The Sashasra Deepam, or one thousand-eight lamp ceremonial, is held in the temple every morning and night.
When visiting a temple, pilgrims appreciate the park’s natural beauty. The temple is open 365 days a year, making every day the ideal time to visit and one of the most popular places to visit in Vellore.
3. Ratnagiri Murugan Temple
If you are looking for the best places to visit in Vellore, you should add Ratnagiri Murugan Temple to your itinerary. The temple was constructed around the 14th century and is situated on a hill. Hundreds of people visit the temple daily to offer homage to Lord Murugan.
According to ancient texts, Lord Murugan resides wherever there is a hill. It is about 14 kilometres from Vellore and is readily accessible by public transportation or cab.
4. Periyar Park
Periyar Park, located in the heart of Vellore, is a popular tourist and local attraction. The park has modern amenities for joggers, family picnics, and other recreational activities. This location is most well-known for its lush, all-green vegetation and diverse bird species.
The park offers a distinct bird zone, a kilometre-long road for romantic promenades, elegant benches, a roller-skating rink, fully-functional restrooms, and a children’s play area with battery-powered vehicles and motorbikes. Periyar Park, one of the best tourist places in Vellore, guarantees fun for all ages!
While planning a trip to Vellore, include Coimbatore in your Tamil Nadu itinerary. Coimbatore, one of the most industrialised cities in Tamil Nadu, is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal and is referred to as the textile centre of South India or the Manchester of the South.
Visit these top restaurants in Coimbatore, where every food item tells a story.
5. Palamathi Hills
The Palamathi Hills, also known as Balamathi Hills, are part of the Eastern Ghats and are located in Vellore, Tamil Nadu and are considered one of the best tourist places in Vellore.
The Palamathi Hills, comprised of Otteri Lake and Palamathi Reserve Forest, offer the most spectacular views in the region and are secluded from pollution and the bustle of the major metropolis.
October through March is the best season to visit Palamathi Hills for an enjoyable experience accompanied by good weather. To put it simply, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Vellore.
6. Kaigal Falls
The Kaigal waterfall is located 98 kilometres from Vellore, within the Koundinya Wildlife reserve and one of the best tourist places in Vellore. The Kaigal waterfall receives its name from the surrounding settlement of Kaigal.
Locally known as Dumukurallu waterfalls (a Telugu term for a sound simulating the sound of stones falling from above), Kaigal waterfalls are perpetual. From a height of roughly 40 feet, the waterfall consists of three cascading falls. The water at the bottom forms numerous little ponds.
7. St John’s Church
St. John’s Church is among the oldest Anglican churches within the Vellore Diocese. It is a church located in the centre of Vellore and within the Vellore Fort complex that is frequently visited by residents and has religious importance. Built in 1846, the church’s interior has a sense of enchantment and is one of the best tourist places in Vellore.
Most church members are affiliated with the Christian Medical College and Hospital. The church also collaborates with various non-governmental organizations and helps schools and housing making it the best place to visit in Vellore.
8. Punganur Lake
Punganoor Lake is one of Tamil Nadu’s most popular artificial lakes that occupy around sixty square meters of ground. There is also a fountain and boating facility in the park’s centre. It is undoubtedly one of the best tourist places in Vellore.
9. Arcot
Arcot is a tiny town located 26 km from Vellore in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and one of the best tourist places in Vellore. The town, bordered by the River Palar, has a rich history. The old trade route between Madras and Salem, present-day Chennai and Bangalore, passed through the city.
Arcot, formerly referred to as Thiruvazhundur, was the capital of the Nawab of Carnatic and was also governed by the Cholas, Marathas, Pallavas, Nayaks, and Bikapur Sultans. However, the city’s centrepiece is the internationally renowned sweetmeat known as Makkan Peda.
The Delhi Gate and Arcot Fort are the city’s most prominent attractions and places to visit in Vellore.
Take a trip to India’s own down-under!
Being a princely kingdom, Vellore is endowed with an abundance of wealth. Plan a trip to Tamil Nadu immediately to experience these gorgeous places to visit in Vellore. Enjoy its abundant flora, animals, and exquisite temples.
