DAY 1
Departure from Chennai
Start your journey early from Chennai (approximately 130 km or 3 hours drive). The best route is via NH48, which is a direct and well-maintained highway.
Upon reaching Vellore, start your sightseeing with one of the most famous landmarks of the city.
Start Sightseeing Visit
Vellore Fort: Start with the Vellore Fort, one of the most well-preserved forts in Tamil Nadu. Built in the 16th century by the Vijayanagar Kings, it has an impressive granite wall and a large moat. The fort houses several historic structures like the Jalakandeswarar Temple, Guides’ Museum, and a church.
Jalakandeswarar Temple within the Fort: The Jalakandeswarar Temple is a key part of the Vellore Fort complex. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple features beautiful carvings and intricate sculptures. Spend about 30 minutes here to admire the temple’s architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Sripuram Golden Temple: Next, head to Sripuram Golden Temple located around 8 km from the Vellore Fort. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and is famous for its golden facade. The temple is set in a serene environment with a spiritual walking path leading to the temple, flanked by beautiful statues and peaceful gardens.
Take a moment to walk the 1.8 km path leading to the temple, which is a peaceful experience in itself. Spend around 1–1.5 hours here, enjoying the spiritual atmosphere and the stunning golden structure.
Afternoon:
Vellore Government Museum
After lunch, head to the Vellore Government Museum, which is a short drive from the Golden Temple. The museum showcases a wide range of collections, including sculptures, artifacts, and exhibits related to the history and culture of the region. Spend 30–45 minutes here exploring the historical and cultural artifacts.
Sri Lakshmi Narsimha Swamy Temple (Optional)
If time permits, visit the Sri Lakshmi Narsimha Swamy Temple. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located near the Vellore Fort. It is famous for its serene atmosphere and simple architecture, making it a peaceful stop to end your spiritual exploration.
Depart from Vellore
After a fulfilling day in Vellore, head back to Chennai. The return journey will take approximately 3 hours, so you should reach Chennai by 10:30 PM.