The Vellore Fort, located in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, is a historically significant fort that dates back to the 16th century. It was built by the Nayakar chieftains of the Vijayanagar Empire and later ruled by various dynasties including the Marathas, Mughals, and the British. The fort is known for its unique architecture and rich history, making it a popular tourist destination in the region.
The Vellore Fort is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day of the week.
The entry fee to visit the Vellore Fort is INR 5 for Indian nationals and INR 100 for foreign tourists.
It takes around 1-2 hours to explore the Vellore Fort thoroughly. Visitors are not allowed to carry cameras, weapons, or any sharp objects inside the fort premises.
The Vellore Fort is known for its unique architectural style which combines elements of Dravidian, Indo-Saracenic, and European styles. The fort complex includes a mosque, a church, a temple, and several other buildings that showcase the diverse cultural influences on the fort's design.
The best time to visit the Vellore Fort is during the winter months of November to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the historical site.
Vellore is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, approximately 130 km away. Vellore has its own railway station and is well connected by road to major cities in Tamil Nadu.
The Vellore Fort has a rich history of being a stronghold for various dynasties, including the Vijayanagar Empire, Marathas, Mughals, and the British. It played a significant role in several historical events and was witness to many battles and struggles for power.
Inside the Vellore Fort, visitors can explore various structures including the Jalakanteswarar Temple, the Tipu Mahal, the Hyder Mahal, and the Church of St. John. Each structure has its own historical significance and architectural charm that attracts history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear while visiting the Vellore Fort as there is a fair amount of walking involved. Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated during your visit and follow all guidelines and instructions provided by the authorities.
Some of the hotels near the Vellore Fort include Hotel Siva AVM Grande, Regency Sameera Vellore by GRT Hotels, and Benzz Park. These hotels offer comfortable accommodation and easy access to the fort for tourists.
Some of the nearby tourist spots to visit along with the Vellore Fort are the Government Museum, Amirthi Zoological Park, Vainu Bappu Observatory, and the Vellore Institute of Technology campus.