Things To Do
in Vellore
Vellore is a historic city located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples, such as the iconic Vellore Fort and Jalakandeswarar Temple. The city is also home to renowned educational institutions like VIT University and Christian Medical College, attracting students from all over the country.
Vellore's bustling markets, delicious local cuisine, and warm hospitality make it a vibrant and charming destination for visitors.
- "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): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Vellore Fort, where you can explore its massive walls and learn about the history of the region. Enjoy a leisurely walk within the fort premises while taking in the beautiful architecture.
Head to the Jalagandeeswarar Temple, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture. Afterward, savor a local meal at a nearby restaurant.
Visit the Government Museum to appreciate local artifacts and art. End the evening by taking a peaceful stroll around the local market.
Visit the Golden Temple at Sripuram, which is known for its intricate gold foil decorations. Spend some time meditating or enjoying the serene surroundings.
Enjoy lunch at a traditional South Indian eatery, sampling local dishes like dosa and idli. After lunch, head to the Tyagaraja Temple, an important pilgrimage site.
Explore the evening bazaar, where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local tea stall for a refreshing cup of chai.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vellore is home to one of the top medical institutions in India, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) and Christian Medical College (CMC), attracting students from across the country.
- The city has a rich historical and cultural background, with landmarks like Vellore Fort, Jalakandeswarar Temple, and various other heritage sites.
- Vellore is strategically located, making it accessible to major cities like Chennai and Bengaluru, facilitating travel and trade.
- The climate in Vellore is generally moderate, with less humidity compared to coastal cities, making it a pleasant place to live.
- The cost of living in Vellore is relatively low compared to other major cities in India.
- Public transportation options are limited, which can make commuting more challenging without a personal vehicle.
- The city can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, leading to delays in travel.
- Though infrastructure is improving, there can still be issues related to waste management and urban planning.
- Job opportunities outside of the educational and medical sectors may be limited, leading to a potential brain drain.
- The city might not offer as much nightlife or entertainment options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Vellore
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Vellore Fort, an impressive 16th-century fort with a moat, ramparts, and a variety of architectural styles, including Dravidian, Indo-Islamic, and European influences.
Enjoy a day at the Amirthi Zoological Park, a picturesque nature reserve with waterfalls, streams, and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
Head to nearby Yelagiri Hills for a range of outdoor activities such as trekking, paragliding, boating, and visiting viewpoints for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Places to Visit in Vellore
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic views of the fort and surrounding areas.
Beautiful natural surroundings with wildlife and nature trails.
Panoramic views of the hills and valleys.
Opportunities to capture wildlife in their natural habitat.
Picturesque landscapes and scenic viewpoints.
Food in Vellore
Vellore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful rice dish made with aromatic spices, tender meat (chicken, mutton, or seafood), and fragrant Basmati rice, typically served with raita and a side of spicy curry. Notable places to try Vellore Biryani include Aryaas and Saravana Bhavan.
Must-Try!
A crispy, golden dosa unique to Vellore, characterized by its large size and delightful crispiness. It is typically served with chutney and sambar, and can be savored at popular local eateries like Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B) and Sangeetha.
A delectable sweet treat that originated in the town of Arcot near Vellore, Makkan Peda is a melt-in-the-mouth dessert made from khoya, sugar, and ghee, garnished with a generous sprinkling of pistachios. Visitors can indulge in this indulgent delight at Sri Krishna Sweets and Srinivasa Sweets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling street in Vellore where one can explore an array of street food stalls offering local delicacies such as Vada Pav, Pani Puri, Samosas, and an assortment of chaats, allowing visitors to delve into the vibrant street food culture of Vellore.
A vibrant market where one can sample local street food favorites such as Parotta with Salna, a popular local bread served with a flavorful gravy, as well as traditional Tamil snacks like Murukku and Ribbon Pakoda.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Vellore, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate titles and greeting them with folded hands. It is also customary to seek their advice and guidance in decision-making.
Being punctual and polite are highly valued in Vellore. It is considered respectful to arrive on time for appointments and meetings, and to address others with polite language and gestures.
When visiting religious or traditional sites in Vellore, it is respectful to dress modestly and conservatively. This often means wearing clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and legs.
Safety
Tipping in Vellore
Ensure a smooth experience
In Vellore, India, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If the service charge is not included, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill may be given as a token of appreciation for good service.
Payment in Vellore, India is primarily done in cash, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in larger establishments. It's always advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting local markets and smaller shops. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm weather and clear skies. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F).
Expect heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes. Some outdoor activities may be limited due to rain.
Ideal time to visit with pleasant weather and cool temperatures. Perfect for outdoor exploration.
Vellore at Night
Hiking in Vellore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hill station located near Vellore, offering scenic views and a variety of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels.
Known for its lush greenery and pleasant climate, Javadhu Hills provides a range of trekking opportunities and is perfect for nature enthusiasts.
About 90 km from Vellore, Yelagiri is a popular destination for trekking and adventure activities with well-marked trails.
A lesser-known spot suitable for hiking, Panchagani offers a peaceful atmosphere amidst nature, making it ideal for day treks.
Just a short drive from Vellore, Aanaikatti features various trails and breathtaking views, perfect for weekend hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Vellore by plane.
Located approximately 130 km from Vellore, Chennai International Airport is one of the major international airports in India, serving numerous domestic and international flights.
About 200 km away from Vellore, Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport is a major international airport serving the city of Bengaluru and surrounding areas.
Approximately 290 km from Vellore, Rajahmundry Airport offers both domestic and a few international flights, making it a connecting hub in Andhra Pradesh.
Located about 350 km from Vellore, Coimbatore International Airport serves domestic and international flights, providing access to various destinations.
Approximately 360 km from Vellore, Trichy International Airport serves as an important international and domestic airport in Tamil Nadu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A prominent demographic group known for their education and contributions to various fields.
Historically marginalized communities, working towards social and economic empowerment.
An agricultural community traditionally involved in farming and land management.
A significant religious minority contributing to the cultural and economic landscape.
Another important religious community with a presence in the area, known for educational institutions.
An agrarian community with significant influence in the surrounding rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is highly popular in Vellore, with numerous local clubs and school teams participating in matches and tournaments.
Football enjoys a significant following in Vellore, with many enthusiasts playing in local leagues and schools.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with various courts available in schools and community centers.
Badminton is widely played in Vellore, both recreationally and competitively, with many clubs dedicated to the sport.
Kabaddi holds a traditional place in Vellore's sports culture, with local teams participating in regional tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vellore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vellore boasts a myriad of eateries that cater to vegetarians, providing a wide range of vegetarian dishes such as dosas, uttapams, and thalis. Notable restaurants offering vegetarian fare include Annapoorna, A2B, and Murugan Idli Shop.
While vegan-specific restaurants are limited, many local establishments offer vegan-friendly dishes such as Vegetable Chettinad, Avial, and coconut-based curries. It's advisable for vegans to communicate their dietary preferences to ensure a suitable meal.
Vellore's culinary landscape encompasses gluten-free offerings such as appams, idiyappam, and traditional rice-based dishes. Visitors adhering to a gluten-free diet should inquire about preparation methods and ingredients to ensure a safe dining experience.