Things To Do
in Vellore

Vellore, India, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and prominent educational institutions. It is famous for the majestic Vellore Fort, which showcases the architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara Empire. The city is also home to the renowned Christian Medical College, attracting students and patients from all over the country and beyond.

Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Ghats, Vellore offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences, making it an intriguing destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Vellore Fort, exploring its massive walls and the ancient temple within.

afternoon
:

Head to the Government Museum to discover local art, culture, and history, followed by a stroll in the nearby park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery and take a leisurely walk around the serene Palar River.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the famous Sripuram Golden Temple to witness its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, sampling street food and shopping for traditional handicrafts.

evening
:

End your day at a local café, enjoying traditional South Indian coffee and watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍛Meal at a local restaurant$2
Cup of coffee$1
🚕Taxi fare (5 km)$2
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$15
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable.
  • Public transportation may not be very reliable.
  • "வணக்கம்" - Hello
  • "என்பது எவ்வளவு?" - How much does this cost?
  • "நன்றி" - Thank you
  • "சரி" - Okay
  • "உங்களுக்கு எப்படி இருக்கிறது?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Vellore

Visit one of these nice places.

Vellore Fort

Capture the majestic walls and intricate architecture of this historic fort, especially at sunset.

Golden Temple

A stunning place for photography, with its intricate gold-plated structures and peaceful surroundings.

Palar River

Ideal for capturing beautiful landscape shots, especially during golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vellore

Vellore offers a delicious array of local dishes that reflect the vibrant culinary culture of South India.

Vellore Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dosa

A thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, often served with chutney and sambar.

Must-Try!

Idli

Steamed rice cakes that are soft and fluffy, typically served with sambar and coconut chutney.

Biryani

A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and meat or vegetables, a must-try for spice lovers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Vellore Market

A bustling market area where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local snacks.

Kottai Mariamman Koil Street

Famous for its array of street food stalls serving snacks like chaat, vada, and sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vellore experiences a tropical wet and dry climate. Summers can be sweltering, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), while winters are mild and pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The monsoon season brings significant rainfall, usually from June to September, leading to cooler temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite 'Namaste' with folded hands is a common greeting.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or rural areas, it’s respectful to dress modestly.

Remove Shoes

Always remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vellore is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and avoid isolated places at night. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of scams, especially in markets.

Tipping in Vellore

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, while small amounts are appreciated by service staff.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but digital payments via UPI apps are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Pleasant weather with cool evenings, perfect for outdoor exploration.

Summer (March - May)

Hot and humid, it's advisable to stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during peak hours.

Monsoon (June - September)

Expect heavy rains; it's best to carry an umbrella and enjoy the lush greenery.

Post-Monsoon (October - November)

A wonderful time with moderate temperatures and clear skies, ideal for sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Vellore at Night

Vellore's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, with a few cafes and restaurants staying open late. You can find local music performances and cultural shows at some venues. For a more lively atmosphere, many choose to visit nearby towns such as Chennai or Bangalore.

Hiking in Vellore

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yelagiri Hills

Approximately 60 km from Vellore, this destination offers various trails with stunning views and a serene environment.

Skandagiri

Located about 50 km away, this trek is known for its scenic beauty and offers a moderate challenge for hikers.

Airports

How to reach Vellore by plane.

Tirupati Airport

Located about 100 km from Vellore, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest option for air travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vellore is moderately walkable, particularly in the city center where many attractions are located close to each other. However, some areas may lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, so it's advisable to stay alert while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tamilians

The predominant ethnic group, known for their rich cultural traditions and language.

Students

Vellore has a large student population due to its educational institutions, bringing a youthful energy to the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The most popular sport in the region, with many local teams and enthusiastic fans.

Kabaddi

A traditional Indian sport that is widely played in Vellore, often attracting local participation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vellore can be heavy during peak hours, particularly on main roads. Public transportation includes buses and auto-rickshaws, which are widely used, but it's recommended to plan your travel times accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vellore.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants offer extensive vegetarian menus, catering to various dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Choices

While South Indian cuisine is predominantly gluten-free, check with restaurants for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Vellore is renowned for its healthcare facilities, particularly the Christian Medical College, which is one of the leading hospitals in India. There are also numerous clinics and pharmacies available throughout the city for basic medical needs.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide