Etymology
The name, Vellore, is derived from the Tamil words : Vel (spear - வேல்) + uur (ஊர் - city), means city of spears. Ancient history shows that Vellore was basically a battle field, where the warriors used to fight. Due to the geography of the place, the place was always left with the used weapons like spears all around the year. In another version, name Vellore is supposed to have been derived from some form of precious stone which had a similar sounding name. There are megalithic, proto-historical evidences in and around Vellore for such a semi-precious stone industry being prevalent in ancient times.
The region once bore an abundant growth of the Vela tree (வேல மரம்). Lore has it that the town derived its name from these trees.
The name is also said to have originated from Vel (spear - வேல்) which is the main weapon of the Hindu deity Murugan or 'Velayudayaan' (one who bears the spear). The word then literally means - The place of Murugan.
History
First freedom fight against British done, Vellore has the blend of rich heritage and culture representing the ancient Dravidian civilization. It was the seat of the Pallavas, Cholas, Nayak, Marathas, Arcot Nawabs and Bijapur Sultan Kingdoms. Vellore was once the capital city of the mighty Vijayanagar empire during 1606-1672. The fort in Vellore was described as the best and the strongest fortress in the Carnatic War in the 17th Century[2]. The monuments found in the district give a vivid picture of the evolution of the city through the ages.
In the region, for about the past 200 years, there were countless changes in the way of formation of kingdoms and their capitals. The 'North' and the 'South' regions of Arcot came into the political map in 1810 at the time of the last Mughal Emperor. Later in 1908, the two districts namely North and South Arcot came into existence. Chittoor (now in Andhra Pradesh) was the first capital of the North Arcot district. From then on, it was the principal military base of the British. In 1911, Vellore became the head quarters of North Arcot Dt. comprising Vellore and Thiruvannamalai[2].
Vellore Sepoy Revolt
The Vellore Revolt of 1806 was the earliest recorded upsurge against the British rule in India and is widely considered as the actual "First War of Independence" (though certain historians consider the Meerut Sepoy Mutiny to be the First War for Independence). Vellore District had always been on the forefront in the struggle for freedom. The Sepoy Revolt of 1806 AD that broke out inside the Vellore fort against the British authority is considered to be a prelude to the Great Revolt of 1857. This part of history is not well known to the people but adds to the rich heritage of Vellore. A pillar commemorating the revolt has been installed in front of the Fort. Further, a huge monument in memory of the fighters is to be built at another location in the city.
Geography
Vellore is located at 12°56′N 79°08′E / 12.93°N 79.13°E.[3] It has an average elevation of 216 metres (709 ft).
The city is 200 metres above sea level, situated 135 km South West of Chennai and 220 km East of Bangalore. Vellore is on the plains surrounded by low, rocky hills. Temperature ranges from as low as 10°C in the winter months of December-February to even 43°C in the summer months of April-June. It is essentially a dry climate, rainy and humid only at the times of the two monsoons: June-August and October-December.
Unlike other tier-II and tier-III cities of India, Vellore has a considerably huge area and a population of 900,000. The total area of the city spans across 55 km.
Demographics
As of 2001[update] India census,[4] Vellore City had a population of above 900,000 after elevated as a Corporation. Vellore has an average literacy rate of 74%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 80%, and female literacy is 68%. In Vellore, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.
Tamil is the official language spoken here. Other languages spoken by linguistic minorities include Telugu, Urdu, Malayalam and Kannada. Most of the people in Vellore can converse in English and Hindi.
Most of the people here follow principles of Hinduism. There is a significant amount of Muslim population in the city,particularly in Melvisharam, Kaspa, R.N.Palayam, Saidapet, Hazarath Makkan, Bakiyath Street, Sarbanamedu, which is considerably higher than the state average. Much of the churches located in northern districts of Tamil Nadu fall under Vellore Diocese - both Catholic and CSI under the territorial jurisdiction of a bishop.
Vellore is one among the least discussed-about cities in India, in terms of Law and Order issues. Also, the city is traditionally known for its religious and linguistic harmony.
Economy
Vellore, an administrative center is predominantly a market place for its own district and neighboring districts such as Chittoor District (Andhra Pradesh) and Thiruvannamalai District.
The city, along with its nearby industrial towns has witnessed a consistent industrial growth, followed by the implementation of South Asia's second railway track between Chennai, Royapuram and Walajah. The Golden Quadrilateral road; has significantly improved the region's industrial activities.
Vellore lies between the IT majors (Chennai & Bangalore) and major pilgrim centres (Tirupathi and Thiruvannamalai). Thousands of men and women from here travel to Chennai and nearby industrial towns everyday for work.
Leather industry
Hundreds of leather and tannery industries are located around Vellore and its nearby towns such as Ranipet, Ambur and Vaniyambadi. The district is the top exporter of finished leather goods in the country. Vellore leather accounts for more than 37% of the country's Export of Leather and Leather related products such as finished leathers, shoes, garments, gloves and so on.
Chemical and other industries
Numerous chemical industries located in Ranipet-SIPCOT form a major source of income. BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd - one of the nine major Federal Government owned enterprises in the nation), EID Parry (sanataryware product manufacturing company with 38% of world's market share in the segment of bathroom accessories), Tirumalai Chemicals and Greaves are among the many international brands located here. Arakonam, a town near Vellore is the home of major companies like MRF, while TVS Lucas has its major manufacturing facilities in Sholingur (40 km from Vellore).
Asia's biggest explosives manufacturing company TEL (Tamil Nadu Explosives Limited) is located in Vellore at Katpadi.
The city is also famous for medical tourism. CMC Hospital which is located in the heart of the city is the biggest private employer in the city. It creates a large floating population, mostly from other states of India and foreign countries. Lodging, hospitality and allied businesses are among major sources of income generated in the central part of the city. With the advent of hospitals such as Apollo KH Hospitals, Melvisharam and Sri Narayani Medical Research Center, Ariyur and colleges such as CMC, VIT and other engineering and science colleges, hospitality industry is growing at a rampant pace.
The mainstay for people in the rural areas is not agriculture but industries like weaving, beedi rolling and match-stick rolling. Interestingly, Indian Army has significant number of men from Vellore district. Hence, it is one of the major source of income for the region.[3]
Also, the city is known for its huge expatriate population scattered around the world, especially in Middle east and North America; which forms major source of wealth.
Sripuram in the southern tip of the city has interestingly cajoled up at lot of tourism interests in city and the surrounding areas.
Automobile and Mechanical companies of Global Brands like SAME-DEUTZ, TVS - Brakes India, MITSUBHISHI, GREAVES COTTON, MRF etc.,are situated in Vellore
SAME-DEUTZ tractor's MNC company is also situated in Vellore ranipet. India's second Electric Car plant BAVINA is also proposed to place the foot print in Vellore Ranipet SEZ.
MITSUBISHI Tools (Formerly SRP Tools), GREAVES COTTON LTD., at Vellore-ranipet.
TVS - Brakes India carrying a wide area for its two plants ie., one for Brakes Division and another for Foundry Division at Vellore-sholingur. Also, it carries varries suppliers in this industrial belt like Real Talent Engineering, Light Alloy Products, Showa Engineering Ltd.,
SAMCO Metal Alloys for heavy castings in Vellore-kaniyambadi.
KRAMSKI stamping and Molding India Pvt. Ltd.,-German company as started its 4th plant in Vellore-anaicut to supply high precision metal stamped and plastic moulded components for BOSCH, Telecommunication, Electronics and Healthcare Industries.
familiar advocates are practising like V. Varadarajan, K. Balachander and G. Selva Kumar etc.,
Proposed/Future developments
Tamil Nadu Government has announced its plan to setup SEZ in Vellore, a leather goods SEZ on 260 acres (1.1 km2) at Ranipet and another Special Economic Zone at Katpadi. A new IT park is proposed to be set up in Vellore by state owned ELCOT (Electronics limited corporation of Tamil Nadu) in partnership with the private sector in the coming financial year (2008-2010).[5]
Chennai-Bangalore-Mumbai Industrial Corridor
Prime Minister. Manmohan Singh has accepted in principle the suggestion made by Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi to declare the stretches along the Chennai-Bangalore highway as an industrial corridor, with plans of a bullet train, a six-lane road and an extension of the metro rail from Chennai to Bangalore. It was the considered opinion of the State government that by making the Chennai-Bangalore highway an industrial corridor, the Centre could facilitate the improvement of infrastructure along the highway on a par with world standards. Besides, it would help further industrial development of Vellore, Ranipet, Hosur and Krishnagiri.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Thursday welcomed the proposed corridor, to be built on the lines of an industrial corridor planned between Delhi and Mumbai. Under its City Connect programme, the CII has held several discussions with senior officials of the Tamil Nadu government to develop the new corridor.[6]
'The Chennai-Bangalore industrial corridor would go a long way in tapping the potential of the two states to attract investment and help creation of a skilled workforce,' Gopal Srinivasan, chairman of the CII's Tamil Nadu Council, said.[7]
Retail business
Major business districts of the city
Arni Road
Officer's line - its the heart of the town for Shopping
Bangalore Road
Arcot Road
Main Bazaar
Long Bazaar
Gandhi Road
Katpadi Road.
Education
Vellore is considered to be one of the best destinations for world class medical and technological education in India. Vellore has a State Government University, a Private Technological University, one Government and one Private Medical School, Various other Engineering Colleges, Numerous Arts and Science Institutions and a large number of both Government and Private Schools.
Medicine
Medical and Nursing Colleges in Vellore are as below
| Sl no | College Name | Address |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Christian Medical College and Hospital | Ida Scudder Road, Vellore - 632004 |
| 2 | Vellore Government Medical College and Hospital | Chittor - Cuddalore Highway, Adukkamparai, Vellore - 632011 |
| 3 | Narayani College of Nursing | Thirumalaikodi, Vellore - 632055 |
| 4 | St. John College of Nursing | Vellore - 632001 |
Christian Medical College and Hospital
Christian Medical College & Hospital (popularly known as CMC), one of the largest hospitals in India, is located in the heart of Vellore.
It attracts a floating population of at least 5000 persons every day. The hospital was founded in the early part of the 20th century by an American medical missionary Dr. Ida S. Scudder.
The CMC Hospital has a functioning quality management programme and is one of the first Asian hospitals to have been ISO certified.
The country's first stem cell translational research centre, was set up in Dec 01 2005 here. The central government's biotechnology department had selected CMC for setting up the first of a series of centers in the country as it had world class clinical hematology and biochemistry departments.[8]
Apart from these, there are low-cost, but effective treatment wards to treat people who cannot afford standar treatment, or therapy; however, not all treatments are low-cost and patients, regardless of their economic status, are expected to buy their medication.
Engineering
Engineering Colleges in Vellore are as below
| Sl no | College Name | Address | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.Abdul Hakkeem College of Engg and Tech., | Melvisharam, Vellore - 632509 | |
| 2 | Adhiparasakthi College of Engineering | Kalavai, Vellore - 632506 | |
| 3 | Ganadipathy Tulsis Jain College of Engineering | Chittor - Cuddalore Highway , Kaniyambadi, Vellore - 632102 | |
| 4 | Global Institute of Engineering and Technology, | Bangalore-Chennai Highway, Melvisharam, Vellore - 632509 | |
| 5 | Kingston College of Engineering | Chittor - Cuddalore Highway , Katpadi, Vellore - 632059 | |
| 6 | Ranipettai Engineering College | Chennai - Bangalore Highway , Walajah, Vellore - 632513 | |
| 7 | Thanthai Periyar Government Institute of Technology | Bagayam Road, Bagayam, Vellore - 632002 | |
| 8 | Vellore Institute of Technology | Thiruvalam Road, Katpadi ,Vellore - 632014 |
Thanthai Periyar Government Institute of Technology (TPGIT) is one of the 6 Government Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu. It is located at Bagayam, Vellore.
The Vellore Institute of Technology University (popularly known as VIT) is in Katpadi, Vellore. VIT has been ranked as the Best Private Engineering University in India by the Magazine India Today. VIT is also the first Indian University to be accredited by the prestigious IEE (Institution of Electrical Engineers), London & ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), USA . VIT University has six schools of study under its umbrella. VIT also houses the VIT Business School which is ranked among the 50 Best in India. VIT has students (around 15000) from all over India and over 20 countries studying in its vast and lush campus.
Arts and Science
The Thiruvalluvar University, which was formed by the bifurcation of University of Madras, is at present located in Vellore Fort campus. The Foundation stone for a multi-crore University Campus was laid at Serkaadu near Katpadi in Vellore by the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M. Karunanidhi on 16th Feb 2008. Almost all of the Government run Arts and Science colleges present in Vellore District, Tiruvannamalai District, Villupuram District and Cuddalore District are affiliated to Thiruvalluvar University. The University students have taken part in various National and International events.
Arts and Science colleges in Vellore
- Auxilium Women's College (founded in 1954, is the first womens College in Vellore District).[9]
- DKM Women's College.
- Muthurangam Government Arts College.
- Voorhees College (Estd. 1898)- This College is the oldest in Vellore District. Famous as the Institution where, Dr.S.Radhakrishnan, Fmr President of India, studied. Recently a Commemorative Stamp in honour of the Centenary of the College was issued by the government of India.
- Jothi's College of Arts & Science, 113, Vallimalai Road, Katpadi, Vellore - 7
Arabic Colleges in Vellore
There are numerous arabic colleges in Vellore, among them is the Madrasa-Baaqiyatus-Salehat, popularly known as Baaqiyaath, which is the second oldest arabic college in India, after Madrasa-Darul-Uloom in Deoband, UP District.
Agricultural Research Station
The Agricultural Research Station, Virinjipuram comes under North Eastern Zone region of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 32 Research Stations of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore which was ranked as the best Agricultural University in India during the year 1999.
This research station is located in Virinjipuram village of Katpadi Taluk of Vellore District. It is about 15 km. away from Vellore bus stand on the Chennai-Bangalore National Highway and 21 km from Katpadi railway station.
Centrally Sponsored, National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas (NWDPRA) scheme is in operation since October 1997 with the main objective of laying out trials mostly on water and soil conservation measures in 18 watersheds of Vellore and Tiruvannamalai Districts.
Schools
Vellore has many Government run, Government aided and private run schools (including Matriculation, CBSE & ICSE/ISC). Following are the few among the list of schools here. Sri Ramakrishna hr sec school in BHEL RANIPET
- Ranipet Boys Higher Secondary School In RANIPET
- Auxilium Girls Higher Secondary School (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus)
- Bethel Matriculation higher secondary school (Matric / Tamil Nadu state board syllabus)
- B.M.D Jain School (ICSE syllabus)
- DAV BHEL Higher Secondary School (CBSE Syllabus).
- Don Bosco Higher Secondary School (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus)
- Government Higher Secondary School, Virupatchipuram (Tamil Nadu State Board Syllabus).
- Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Katpadi (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Government Higher Secondary School, Kaneyanallur (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Government Muslim Higher Secondary School (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Holy Cross Matriculation Higher Secondary School (Matric / Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Ida Scudder School (ICSE/ISC syllabus, Sister Concern of Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore).
- K. A. K. M (Mpl)Higher Secondary School (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Lakshmi Garden matric hr sec school. (CBSE Syllabus), Vellore
- Madras Matriculation Higher Secondary School (Matric syllabus)
- N.Krishnaswamy Mudaliar Higher Secondary school (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus)
- Ramalingam Hr. Sec. School (Tamil Nadu State Board Syllabus)
- Rathinagiri Bageerathan Matriculation School(Matric/Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus)
- Siddhartha Senior Secondary School (CBSE).
- Shanthinikethan Matriculation Higher Secondary School (Matric / Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Shiksha Kendra Residential School (Matric/Tamil Nadu Board Syllabus). web
- Shrishti Marticulation Higher Secondary School (Matric / Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus). web
- Shrishti Vidyashram Senior Secondary School (CBSE syllabus).
- Sri Narayani Vidyalaya Higher Secondary School, Tirumalaikkodi (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus) Golden temple fame
- Sri Venkateswara Higher Secondary School (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus, Run by Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam Board).
- St. Mary's Higher Secondary school (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Sunbeam Matriculation School (Matric / Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus). web
- Vani Vidhyalaya Matriculation School (Matric / Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Vedavalli Higher Secondary School (State Board), Walajapet
- Vedavalli Vidyalaya Senior Secondary School (CBSE), Walajapet
- Vedavalli Vidyalaya(CBSE),Ranipet
- Vellore Vallal N. Krishnaswamy Mudaliar English Medium School (CBSE Syllabus)
- Vidyalayam
- Voorhes Higher Secondary School (Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Williams Matriculation Higher Sec School (Matric / Tamil Nadu State Board syllabus).
- Poorna Vidhyalaya Matriculation School (Matric Syllabus).
Police Recruit School
The Police Recruit School is located inside the Vellore Fort. A training school to recruit constables was opened in Vellore in April 1908. It is one of the two permanent Police Recruit Schools of the present day State of Tamil Nadu (another one is in Coimbatore). Inspector General of Police in his letter (with suggestions) to the Government dated 25 August, 1897 made the Government to form a combined training school at Vellore for police inspectors and station house officers, who were to undergo six months course. In the 1909, a police museum, which was functioning in office of Inspector General of Police since 1901, was shifted to the Police Training School at Vellore. The 1973-74 Batch of directly recruited Sub-Inspectors was the last batch to undergo training at Vellore. In 1976 the Police training college were shifted to Chennai Ashok Nagar as P.T.C. After Shifted P.T.C. Training School called as Police Recruit School (P.R.S.). Since 1990 the LTTE was arrested in Hyder Mahal at Police Recruit School. For the Past 12 Years there is no training at all. In 2002 the Training will be commenced at till now onwards.
Warders Training Centre
There is a Warders Training Centre at Vellore which conducts 6 months training for Grade II Warders. This Institute also imparts in-service training to Grade I & II Warders. This training centre imparts training in the handling of Modern Weapons, drill and management of Prisons with emphasis on Human Rights. The in-service includes training in Karate & Ninja, Commando, Un-armed combat, Bomb disposal, PSO Temporary Warders training centre at Trichy and Coimbatore started to the train the newly recruited warders.
There is a Regional Institute of Correctional Administration at Vellore for imparting training to officers. This institute is jointly managed by four Southern States viz. Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka & Kerala. The object of this institute is to have trained officers in the correctional service who can be able to rehabilitate, re-socialize and reintegrate the offenders in the community effectively.
Vellore Central Prison
Prison
The Vellore Central Prison, set up in 1830 A.D. is another historically important land mark as some eminent personalities and freedom fighters like Rajaji, C.N.Annadurai, Kamaraj, the former presidents of India V. V. Giri, R. Venkataraman and other political leaders like Vaiko, had served their prison terms here.This Prison was constructed during the year 1867. The total area of this Prison is 153 acres (0.62 km2). The authorised accommodation is 2130. The architectural design of this Prison is radial blocks with tower. Special Prison for Women, Vellore This Prison started functioning from 15.04.1836. This is a pioneering Institution in the country started for the welfare of women. This Prison was originally named as Presidency Jail for Women Prisoners. The area occupied by this Prison is 13.62 acres (55,100 m2). The authorised accommodation is 412. This Prison is managed by Women Officers and staff. There is a nursery and crèche available in this Prison to look after the welfare of the children accompanying the Prisoners. Largest Jail in the vellore
Convicts sentenced to imprisonment are confined in the jail from various districts of the Presidency as well as from Burma. Many prisoners sentenced to transpiration by the courts of this Presidency are retained when considered physically unfit for deportation to Andaman. The expenditure in the jail is recovered by the value of the convict labour.
The chief industry carried out in the jail is weaving. A great variety of clothes of variouspatterns as well as table clothes, gunnies, choir mats,The manufacture was first taught to the convicts by a carpet weaver of Ellore. The fabrics are excellently woven and find ready sale in England. Carpentry, shoe making,iron and brass work and tent making are also carried on and the prison is well worth a visit. By extreme hard work and good conduct, convicts may earn a remission not exceeding 1/6th of the total period of imprisonment awarded them.
Warders Training Centre
There is a Warders Training Centre at Vellore which conducts 6 months training for Grade II Warders. This Institute also imparts in-service training to Grade I & II Warders. This training centre imparts training in the handling of Modern Weapons, drill and management of Prisons with emphasis on Human Rights. The in-service includes training in Karate & Ninja, Commando, Un-armed combat, Bomb disposal, PSO Temporary Warders training centre at Trichy and Coimbatore started to the train the newly recruited warders.
There is a Regional Institute of Correctional Administration at Vellore for imparting training to officers. This institute is jointly managed by four Southern States viz. Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka & Kerala. The object of this institute is to have trained officers in the correctional service who can be able to rehabilitate, re-socialize and reintegrate the offenders in the community effectively.
Tourism
Vellore Fort
A photo of Vellore Fort
The fortification consists of a main rampart broken at irregular intervals by round towers and rectangular projections. The main walls are built of massive granite stones surrounded by a broad moat fed with water by subterranean drains from the Suryagunta tank. Within the fort is the similarly aged Jalakanteswara Temple. The fort is one of the most perfect specimens of military architecture in Southern India. One of the interesting features of this fort is that there is a Hindu temple, Christian church and Muslim mosque within its ramparts. The Fort also houses the famous "Tipu Mahal", where Tipu Sultan is believed to have stayed with his family during the war with the British. The graveyards of Tipu's sons are found at Vellore. The Fort is under the control of the Archeological Survey of India. The Vellore Fort has been declared as a "Monument of National Importance". The fort has today become a must see for visitors thronging Vellore.
State Government Museum
This state Government Museum is inside the fort and can be found on map. This Museum was opened to the public in 1985. It consists of objects of art, archaeology, pre-history, weapons, sculptures, bronzes, wood carvings, handicrafts, numismatics, philately, botany, geology and zoology. It treasures ancient and present day curios relating to Anthropology, Art and Archaeology, Botany, Geology, Numismatics, Pre-history, Zoology, etc. The historical monuments of the erstwhile composite North Arcot District are gracefully depicted in the Gallery. Special exhibits include Bronze double antenna sword from Vellore Taluk, dating back to 400 BC., Stone sculptures from Late Pallava to Vijayanagar periods, Ivory chess board and coins used by the last Kandian King of Sri Lanka, Vikrama Raja Singha. The educational activities of this Museum include Art camp for school students, Study of inscriptions and iconography for college students etc.
Kavalur Observatory
Kavalur observatory (Vainu Bappu Observatory The Vainu Bappu Observatory) is located in Kavalur in the Javadi Hills (a part of Eastern Ghats) in Alangayam, Vellore District. The observatory is at an altitude of 725 m above mean sea level (longitude 78° 49.6' E ; latitude 12° 34.6' N). Apart from being reasonably away from city lights and industrial areas, the location has been chosen in order to be closer to the Earth's equator for covering both northern and southern hemispheres with equal ease. In addition, its longitudinal position is such that it is the only major astronomical facility between Australia and South Africa for observing the southern objects.The Largest Telescope in Asia with a diameter of 2.3M is located here.
Yelagiri
Yelagiri hills, is an idyllic place for a short holiday. Green hills and picture post-card scenery greets you here. It is a quaint hill station and is the most pristine and unpolluted among the hill stations in Tamil Nadu. Yelagiri Hills is a backward area with few glaring developments like cottages and farm houses, yet a place that has maintained its 'remote' label.
Clock Tower
This clock tower was erected in the memory of the coronation of king George V The tower is also dedicated to the 22 English soldiers who went to fight from this town during the 1st world war (1914 1919) . Out of this 14 British soldiers died in this war.
Church of’ South India
It comes tinder the churches of south India. It is one of the biggest church. The RCA (Reform Church of America) came to North Arcot District, and established the church . The church is nearly 150 years old. Previously this church was in the filter bed road, The British soldiers who died during the Sepoy Mutiny are buried in the vicinity of this church. The church is given authorization by the British Government to maintain this graveyard.
Amirthi Forest
Amirthi zoological park is situated under the Javvadu/Javadi Hills of Tellai across Amirthi river which is 25 km away from Vellore. This zoological park was started in October 1967. The area of the park is 25 hectares and one can find beautiful waterfalls. There are also different kinds of birds and animals. Play equipments like swings, seesaw etc., are available for children. Numerous kinds of herbal plants and trees and sandalwood trees grow here. There are 2 rest houses and five members can stay in one dormitory. There is a meditating hall where one can have full concentration and be in serenity.
The inflow of tourists is more only during the holidays. This zoological park has been recognized recently and so the state Government has taken initiative to develop this area. The entrance fees is only Rs.2/- per head, Rs.3/- for cycles, Rs.5/- for vans and Rs.2/- for motor cycles.
There is a range office at Amirthi headed by the forest ranger. There is also a hill tribe society at Nimmiyambattu near Amirthi. The main aim is to provide employment opportunities to the hill tribals in that area.
Villapakkam
The hilly area locally known as Pancha Pandava Malai in Villapakkam was a flourishing Jaina center during the early medieval period as it is evident from the rock cut cave temple, natural caverns with Jaina figures and inscriptions. The rock cut cave temple is a large excavation on the eastern lace of the huge hill
Golden Temple
Vellore has a magnificent golden temple which is located at Sripuram near Thirumalaikodi. It is approximately 12 Kms from Vellore Bus terminus.
The temple is located on 20 acres of land and has been constructed by Vellore-based Sri Narayani Peedam, headed by spiritual leader Sri Sakthi Amma also known as Narayani Amma. The temple, covering 55,000 sq ft (5,100 m2), has intricate carvings and sculptures in gold. The lighting is arranged in such a way that the temple glitters even during night. The temple construction was completed in on August 24th, 2007.
The Sripuram is the biggest structure made out of gold. Even the Satari, a crown with feet of the lord engraved on it, is made of solid gold weighing 1 kg.
The outer pathway of the temple is made out in the shape of a Star. The walls of the pathway have inscriptions of teachings of Sakthi amma, Gita, Bible, Quran and the Guru Granth Sahib. Only people who believe in more than one god are allowed to enter the temple. All people have to go through the Star shaped pathway to reach the sanctum. The Inner praharam of the temple resembles the circular structure of the Parliament of India.
Temples
Jalakandeswarar Temple, Srilakshmi Golden Temple, Seethalakshmana Sametha Sri Kothanda Ramar Swamy Temple at Rangapuram, Thengal Ashram, Sholinghur Narasimha Swamy Temple, Tarakeshwarar Temple and Shanebakkam Vinayagar Temple are few of the famous temples located here. Also the district is well known for numerous Murugan temples. The City also houses famous Churches and Mosques. The Assumption Cathedral and the 150-year-old St.Johns Church inside the Fort are some of the churches located in Vellore. The Big Mosque in the heart of the city houses the largest Arabic College in India.
Jalakandeswarar Temple
 The Jalakandeswarar Temple's main Gopuram |  The Raja Gopuram of Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore |  The Raja Gopuram of Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore |  The inside prakaram entrance seen through the Raja Gopuram of Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore |
 Inside Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore |  Inside Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore |  The Raja Gopuram of Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore |
Jalakandeswarar Temple - Situated inside the Vellore Fort, this temple boasts of a majestic Gopuram (tower). Here Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of "Jalakandeswarar". The temple is located at sub-ground levels than the temple moat, hence the name Jalakandeswarar. The temple was in closed state for a very long period. The main Deity of the sanctum sanctorium was taken away to a distant location to save Him from being dishonoured by an appraisal. It was brought back to place in 1980 when there was a severe water scarcity. The then Collector was the key man in getting the deity back to location.
Ratnagiri Temple
Ratnagiri Murugan Temple is devoted to Lord Balamurugan and is located at Rathnagiri, Walaja Taluk about 10 km from Vellore. Balamurugan Adimaigal was the person responsible for developing this hilltop temple from the year 1968. Under his guidance, a well equipped hospital and a very good school was founded. All people belong to Kilminal were also responsible for the development of this temple complex. Under the auspicious of Balamurugan Adimaigal, an emergency medical service unit is available near the Ratnagiri hospital on the Chennai - Bangalore highway. The temple is very well maintained and known for its popularity among CMC visitors and the general public of Tamil Nadu. A 4 hair-pin bend road leads to the temple. A small entry fees for vehicles is charged as the ghat road was recently laid. Another option would be to take nearly 150 odd steps to reach the temple.
Sripuram
SriLakshmi Temple in Sripuram, popularly known as Vellore Golden Temple, is a newly built Spiritual Park / Temple in Thirumalaikodi, Vellore. The whole exterior of the temple is laid with gold sheets and plates. The construction of this temple is reported to have cost Rs.300 crores (Rs.3 billion). The temple is surrounded by a vast lush green landscaped area. The temple can only be accessed by going through a star shaped walkway. * How to reach Sripuram from Chennai, Bangalore, Thirumala
Kangeyanallur
Thiru Muruga Kirupanandha Variyar, popularly known and reverently called as Variyar Swamigal was born at Kangeyanallur, a small village on the northern bank of 'Palar' river. This village lies at a distance of 5 km between Vellore and Katpadi in Vellore District. This province is referred to as Thondai Nadu in Sangam literature.
He was born on 25 August 1906. According to Indian Astrology, it was Saturday 4.37 AM, Sukla Patcham, Sasti thithi, Swathi Nakshatram, Subranama Yogam, Gowlawa Karanam, Thula Rasi Kadaga Lagnam.
Vallimalai
Its a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, which is located on top of the hill which is a part of the Eastern Ghats, about 30 km from Vellore. The temple is known for its majestic views.
Cathedral
This is the main Cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Vellore. Situated adjacent to the Bishop's House, the Church has turned into a major religious center after it was rebuilt in 2001.
Balamathi
Balamathi, a serene and small beautiful village located on top of the hills of Eastern Ghats is a 30 minute drive from Vellore. It is famous for its Balamurugan Temple which is connected to the city by a well laid road with many hair pin bends. Balamathi enjoys pleasant breeze and a substantially low temperature which makes an ideal break away from city's naturally hot weather.
Transportation
Buses
Vellore is served by city bus service, which provide connectivity within the City, suburbs and places 30 km in the radius of Vellore.
The Central bus terminus was in the heart of the city, opposite to the Fort, until it was shifted to its new location near the Chelliamman Temple on the banks of the river Palar. The Old Bus Terminus near the Fort continues to function as a Nodal Center for all buses plying between the city and its suburbs. Other major City services bus terminals are located at Chittor bus stand, Bagayam and Katpadi.
Please refer the Tamil Nadu government's website for route and fare details: Government Transport Website: [4]
Autorickshaw and Taxicab
Autorickshaws and Taxicabs charge a flat rate and supposedly do not abide by government fixed fares. Unfortunately, fleecing of passengers at Railway stations and Bus stands in Vellore is a common sight. But the rates are much more reasonable that there counterparts in Chennai, Coimbatore or Bangalore.
How to reach
By Air
The city does not have a functioning airport of its own, the nearest international airports are Chennai International Airport (130 km), Bengaluru International Airport (200 km) and the nearest domestic airport is Tirupati Airport (100 km).
Vellore has an unused airstrip at Allapuram. Proposal to make the airport fully functional by 2009 to allow operation by 45-seater ATR aircraft has been proposed by the government. The Tamil Nadu government has recently announced that it would speed up the construction of terminal buildings and thereby make the airport fully operational by 2009.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has embarked on an "idle airports activation programme" in the Southern region that includes Vellore. The Vellore airstrip, located on 51.5 acres (208,000 m2), was activated recently to facilitate regular flying by trainee pilots of the Madras Flying Club. The proposed Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Aeronautical science will be shifted from Sriperumbudur to Vellore.
By Train
Vellore city has a total of three railway stations. The main railway junction for Vellore lies at the northern part of the city at Katpadi, 7 km from Old Central Bus stand, 6.5 km from CMC and 5 km from the New Central Bus Terminus. The Railway Station is being expanded and beautified to accommodate the ever growing passenger numbers.
Two more stations, the Vellore Town and Vellore Cantonment are on the line connecting Katpadi Junction to Villipuram Junction. Regular train services from Vellore Cantonment have started from 10 Nov 2008. Trains are presently being operated via Katpadi to Arakonam, Jolarpettai,Chennai Beach and Tirupati. Once the Katpadi-Villupuram railway line is completed, more services would be operated.
By Road
Vellore is well connected to all major cities in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh,Kerala and Karnataka. Direct buses are available to Chennai, Bangalore, Tirupathi, Salem, Erode, Mysore, Chittoor, Kurnool, Trichy, Thiruvannamalai, Tindivanam, Villupuram, Kanyakumari, Arani, Kanchipuram, Kalpakkam, Gudiyatham and other major towns and cities in South India.
Vellore is located on NH 46, which connects Bangalore and Chennai (NH 4 from Ranipet to Chennai) and on Cuddalore - Chittoor highway, thus making it a major transit point for travelers. Golden Quadrilateral (the largest express highway project in India) makes the city extremely easy to access from both Bangalore and Chennai (in an average, 2 hours from Chennai and 3 hours from Bangalore).
Distance between Vellore and other major towns and cities:
| Sl no | City | Distance (in km) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chennai | 140 |
| 2 | Bangalore (via Hosur) | 180 |
| 3 | Bangalore (via Chittor) | 210 |
| 4 | Coimbatore | 317 |
| 5 | Tuticorin | 542 |
| 6 | Tirupathi | 100 |
| 7 | Ranipet, Vellore | 36 |
| 8 | Karaikal | 310 |
| 9 | Arni | 36 |
| 10 | Tiruvannamalai | 85 |
| 11 | Mysore | 278 |
| 12 | Salem | 175 |
| 13 | Krishnagiri | 110 |
| 14 | Hyderabad | 512 |
| 15 | Tirupur | 280 |
| 16 | Tirunelveli | 586 |
| 17 | Madurai | 439 |
| 18 | Ooty | 314 |
| 19 | Erode | 220 |
| 20 | Nellore | 304 |
| 21 | Mangalore | 465 |
| 22 | Chittor | 28 |
| 23 | Trichy | 308 |
| 24 | Machhiwara | 2423 |
Media and Communication
Leading Tamil, English and other regional language newspapers are available in Vellore. English dailies such as, Deccan Chronicle, The New Indian Express, The Hindu, The Times of India and Deccan Herald are available in Vellore. Tamil dailies; Thinaththanthi, Dinamalar, Dinakaran, Dinamani and Maalaimalar are printed in Vellore.
Vellore falls under Tamil Nadu Telecom circle.
A station of All India Radio RELAY CENTRE for Doordarshan TV Channels is located in Vellore. The city has several Local Cable operators.
Cuisines
Vellore is famous for its cuisines and food. Its non veg cuisine is famous, especially Vellore Serva, a preparation made from brinjal which is used as a side dish with briyani is extremely famous.
Vellore is famous for its Brinjal called as Mullu Kathrika. The tender country corn is also very popular. Brand named "Thotapalayam Kathiru" is well known. Custard apple is another delicious fruit that is widely available during the season in Vellore.
Trivia
Vellore is generally referred by its seven wonders
Temple without God - [Jalakandeswara temple] till 1980 River without water - [Palar] College without Knowledge - In general. Police without Power - perhaps not now. Hospital without beds - [CMC] started to function without beds Fort without kings - after the caputure of Vellore Fort by the British Girls without beauty - now Its not.
Politics
Vellore assembly constituency is part of Vellore (Lok Sabha constituency).[10]
