Things To Do
in Arcot
Arcot is a historic town located in the Vellore District of Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples, including the famous Jalakanteswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Arcot was once a prominent stronghold of the Nawabs of the Carnatic, and remnants of their rule can still be seen in the architecture of the town.
The town is also renowned for its traditional cuisine, particularly its biryani and sweets.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the historic Arcot Fort to explore its architecture and learn about its significance. Enjoy a guided tour to understand the rich history of the region.
Head to the nearby Vellore Fort and take in the stunning views from its ramparts. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Jalakandeswarar Temple for its exquisite sculptures.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the local market and sample some street food. Wrap up your day by visiting a local café for some relaxing time.
Start your day with a visit to the serene Palar River, known for its scenic beauty. Take in the fresh air and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Explore the beautiful gardens at the Vellore Institute of Technology campus. Enjoy a picnic lunch and engage in some outdoor activities like cycling.
Conclude your nature day with a sunset view by the riverbank. Capture some memorable photos before heading back to your accommodation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, with landmarks like the Arcot Fort.
- A growing local economy with opportunities in agriculture and small-scale industries.
- Proximity to major cities like Chennai, offering better access to urban amenities.
- A warm and welcoming community with strong traditions and festivals.
- Limited infrastructure development compared to larger cities, affecting transportation and amenities.
- Occasional water scarcity issues, impacting daily life and agriculture.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as those in metropolitan areas.
- Job opportunities can be limited, leading to outmigration for better prospects.
Best Activities in Arcot
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the thrill of flying through the skies and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the natural beauty of Arcot by embarking on scenic trekking trails through the lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
Discover the diverse bird species that inhabit the region by spending time in the natural habitats and bird sanctuaries around Arcot.
Places to Visit in Arcot
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular viewing spot offering stunning views of Arcot and its surroundings
Scenic lake with beautiful landscapes, ideal for photography and enjoying the view
Historical fort with elevated points providing excellent vantage points for capturing panoramic views of the area
Food in Arcot
Arcot Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Aromatic rice dish cooked with meat, spices, and saffron, often served with raita and mirchi ka salan. Must-try at Shabbir's Biryani or Grand Fast Food in Arcot.
Must-Try!
A popular sweet made from khoya, sugar, and ghee, often found at local sweet shops like New Vasantha Bhavan.
Tender and flavorful kebabs made with marinated meat, best enjoyed at Arcot Bismillah Hotel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Arcot Market offers a wide array of fresh produce, spices, and street food such as bajji, bonda, and various chaat items. Don't miss the aromatic filter coffee at the local stalls.
A vibrant street lined with vendors selling local snacks and treats like murukku, pakoda, and pori urundai.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Arcot, it is customary to greet others with a traditional Indian greeting such as 'namaste' with a slight bow or 'vanakkam' which is a Tamil greeting.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Arcot, and it is important to show deference and consideration towards older individuals. This can include using honorific titles when addressing them.
When dining in Arcot, it is polite to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to use the right hand for eating, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Safety
Tipping in Arcot
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Arcot, India. It is not expected in most situations, although in upscale restaurants or hotels, a small tip of 5-10% may be appreciated for excellent service.
Payment in Arcot, India is primarily done using cash, although credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted in urban areas. It is common to pay for goods and services on the spot and negotiate prices for certain items in local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Arcot is during the winter season when the weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable for outdoor activities. Expect clear skies, mild temperatures, and vibrant cultural festivals during this time.
Visiting Arcot during the summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures soaring. However, this season is also a great time to experience local traditions and festivities.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Arcot, making it a good time for nature enthusiasts to explore the lush green landscapes. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the wet conditions.
Arcot at Night
Hiking in Arcot
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 60 km from Arcot, Nandi Hills offers scenic views, lush greenery, and trails for hiking enthusiasts. It is also a popular spot for sunrise views.
Approximately 85 km from Arcot, Yelagiri features several trekking trails and is known for its beautiful landscapes, fruit orchards, and a tranquil environment.
About 40 km from Arcot, Chennimalai offers trekking routes and is known for its temples, panoramic views, and serene atmosphere.
Located roughly 70 km from Arcot, Kakkayan Paarai provides hiking trails surrounded by natural beauty, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Around 90 km from Arcot, Bheemeshwari is renowned for its lush forests and rivers, offering unique trekking opportunities in a picturesque setting.
Aiports
How to reach Arcot by plane.
The primary airport serving Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and one of the largest in India.
An international airport serving Bangalore, Karnataka, located approximately 350 km from Arcot.
An airport located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, which is about 150 km from Arcot.
An airport serving Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, located around 500 km from Arcot.
An airport located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, approximately 430 km from Arcot.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Arcot, known for their distinctive language and culture.
A significant community in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Arcot.
A community that has a notable presence in Arcot, with a rich history and cultural influence.
A smaller but important demographic group, with various denominations represented.
Includes various other ethnic and religious groups that contribute to the multicultural landscape of Arcot.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in Arcot, enjoyed by people of all ages, with many local tournaments and street matches frequently taking place.
Football has a significant fan base in Arcot, with local clubs and schools often participating in friendly matches and leagues.
Kabaddi is traditional in rural areas and is popular among local youth, with regular competitions held.
Badminton is increasingly popular in urban areas, with many young players participating in competitions and training sessions.
Basketball has gained popularity in schools and communities, with growing numbers of courts and organized games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arcot.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer a wide range of vegetarian dishes, including dosa, idli, sambar, and vegetable curries.
While vegan-specific options may be limited, many local eateries are accommodating and willing to customize dishes to suit vegan preferences.
It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when dining out, and some establishments may offer gluten-free alternatives upon request.