Vellore is a historical city in Tamil Nadu, India, which has an admixture of culture, spirituality, and nature. Starting from the centuries-old Vellore Fort, which is a great sight to the Golden Temple of Sri Lakshmi Narayani, all covered with gold, has everything in store for every holidaymaker. Besides, one can enjoy the picturesque Palamathi Hills and Punganoor Lake for scenic beauty or visit the temple for spiritual purposes. With such diverse offerings, there are plenty of things to do in Vellore, making Vellore an interesting place to visit where history and peace exist.
10 Things To Do In Vellore
Some of the best things to do in Vellore are listed below.
1. Visit Vellore Fort
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Standing tall with thick barbican walls and a picturesque moat, Vellore Fort is a historic edifice. The fort was constructed in the 16th century and consists of more buildings, such as temples and a castle. Its grand structure represents a blend of martial and devotional structures; thus, it would be a real treat for any history lover. People visit the fort to admire the beautiful carvings and take in the views outside the fort ramparts. The place is calm and peaceful, which adds to the appeal of this location, making it an outstanding landmark in Vellore.
Location: Vellore Fort, Fort Road
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Seek Blessings At Jalakandeswarar Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Lord Shiva is the deity honoured in this temple enclosure of Vellore Fort, called the Jalakandeswarar Temple. This old temple showcases beautiful Dravidian architecture with delicate carvings and designs. The tranquil environment calls the people for reflection and worship. The temple is one of the important pilgrimage centres, and people come here throughout the year. The picturesque environment around the temple, along with its past heritage, makes the temple comfortable for visitors. A visit to this temple helps one explore the culture and architecture of the place.
Location: Inside Vellore Fort, Fort Road
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Seek Blessings At Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple
Photo: Ag1707 / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple of Sripuram Built with gold leaf is an architectural masterpiece, among the best things to do in Vellore. Built in honour of Goddess Lakshmi, the temple premises are a rich spiritual place with many pilgrims and tourists. There are well-kept gardens for the tourists to walk about and appreciate the decorative works. The calm setting appears conducive for prayers and meditation within the temple. The golden outer surface of the temple directly illuminates the sun, creating a spectacular view. This temple presents an enriching experience where both spirituality and art coalesce.
Location: Sripuram, Vellore
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
4. Visit Nemili Sri Bala Peetam
Photo: Nandhu Kumar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Sri Bala Peetam Nemili extends worship to Sri Bala and is situated near Vellore as a prominent spiritual centre. The temple features a peaceful setting embellished by lovely structures, thereby drawing a good number of visitors who come for prayers and peace. The surrounding elements purge out all forms of noise, thereby allowing one to sit, do some meditation, and calm down. There are several ceremonies, and the visitors can welcome the local customs. The concern regards the temple, which acts as a major centre for cultural activities, making visitors very spiritual.
Location: Nemili, Vellore
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Seek Blessings At Virinjipuram Temple
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Virinji Puram Temple is an old temple, and it is built in the history of Goddess Vishnu. Located in calm surroundings, it has beautiful walls and interesting sculptures that represent several gods and goddesses. This temple is very well known among the devotees, and many come from abroad to worship. The visitors, mainly in addition to these activities, enjoy the calm environment, perform certain rituals, and admire the artistry of the temple. The quiet ambience is also ideal for those wishing to meditate and learn the history of the place.
Location: Virinjipuram, Vellore
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
6. Seek Blessings At Mahadeva Malai Temple
Photo: its Suren / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Mahadeva Malai Temple exists on the hilltop, and it is devoted to Lord Shiva, from which one can view breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding area. The temple is calm and peaceful in its atmosphere, as well as the celebrations that take place there, causing many people to visit the temple throughout the year. After reaching the temple, one could appreciate peace and engage in some form of spiritual practice, making it a trip worthwhile for both nature and spirituality enthusiasts.
Location: Mahadeva Malai, Vellore
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
7. Visit Kavalur Observatory
Photo: Prateek Karandikar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kavalur Observatory, based close to Vellore, is one of the top centres for astronomical research in the country. The observatory can be visited, and also, the public is given opportunities to take part in programs including astronomy and space science. The facility also includes guided tours where visitors are given a chance to look at objects in space using powerful telescopes, so this makes it an ideal place for people who love watching stars. It’s a great place for all age groups in terms of learning and motivation.
Location: Kavalur, Vellore
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
8. Visit Palamathi Hills
Photo: Pok Rie / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Palamathi Hills is a beautiful location about 30 kilometres away from Vellore town and features amazing views and peaceful nature walks. These hills are perfect for trekking and nature walks as they are covered in beautiful green vegetation and a variety of plants. People can also enjoy breathtaking views of the landscapes surrounding them; hence, it is a good place to take photographs and relax. Given the cool weather and peaceful environment, Palamathi Hills is a good place for family outings and engaging in sporting activities.
Location: Palamathi Hills, Vellore
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
9. Visit Punganoor Lake
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Punganoor Lake, situated in the centre of Yelagiri Hills, is a quiet place and is an excellent location for a day out, making it one of the best things to do in Vellore. Boating facilities are available in the lake, allowing the visitors to relax on the still waters while enjoying the delights of hillside sights. The lake area is surrounded by a clean park that has walking paths and lawns, making it suitable for laid-back afternoons and picnics. During sunset, the scenery is changed beautifully, creating an overwhelming feeling in visitors that they will not be able to forget.
Location: Yelagiri Hills, Vellore
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
10. Visit The Archaeological Museum Of India
Photo: Sindugab / Wikimedia Commons
Vellore’s Archaeological Museum of India is a treasure trove of interesting displays and items representing the historical and cultural dynamics of the region. There are ancient statues, carvings, and other archaeological materials that inform visitors about the history of the area. With their neat arrangement and educative aspects, the exhibitions of the museum make it an ideal stop for those seeking things to do in Vellore, This visit helps one explore more on what to do in Vellore apart from just its prominent tourist attractions.
Location: Near Vellore Fort, Vellore
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
Best Time To Visit: October to March
To summarise, Vellore is an enthralling place that makes one want to explore as well as brood. The Jalakandeswarar Temple, along with the Archaeological Museum, are some of the numerous historical places in the area that provide information about the great past of the region. There are many amusing things to do in Vellore. So, plan your next vacation with TripXL and enjoy the magic of this fascinating city.
Cover Photo: Maydinaselvan Durairaj / Wikimedia Commons