Plan your weekend: Head to Vellore for a date with history

From the historic Vellore Fort, science park, astronomical observatory, zoological parks to temples dating back to several decades, Vellore has a little something to offer to everyone’s interests.

Make sure to begin your exploration of the city with the 16th century Vellore Fort, which is in the heart of the city. The fort is nothing short of spectacular with its ramparts, masonry and a moat — which is sure to remind one of the castles and forts from folk tales. During the British rule, Tipu Sultan’s family was held captive in the very same fort. Interestingly, it is also home to a church, a mosque and temple, with intricate carvings.

To pique your interest in science and history, the city has a museum with a whopping 2,896 exhibits of artefacts from the past and also a Science Park where you can learn physics while having fun. If you love watching the night sky, drive further 70km from Vellore towards Kavalur for Vainu Bappu Observatory. The observatory, which is open to public every Saturday from 7 pm to 10 pm, is home to the largest telescope in Asia. The Amirthi Zoological Park across Amirthi River, about 25 km from Vellore, is a great tourist spot with animals like spotted deer, mongoose, hedgehogs, foxes, crocodiles and many species of birds residing in.

The city also has several sites of religious importance, including the Golden Temple of Sripuram, which is located at the foot of a hill range named Malaikodi within the city. The temple is situated on 100 acres of land and has gold-covered exteriors and interiors, making it an architectural marvel, done by thousands of artisans. The temple also has a star-shaped path to reach the sanctum sanctorum at the centre, which makes it a unique structure. Sri Thenvenkatachalapathy Temple, Jalakandeswarar Temple are among the other spiritual places that are also architectural masterpieces. St John’s Church in the city is said to be at least 150 years old, while the Big Mosque houses the largest Arabic college in our country.