Vellore Fort is situated in the heart of Vellore city in Tamilnadu state. This fort was constructed by Vijayanagara kings, during the 16th century.

Vellore Fort, Tamilnadu

This fort is considered one of the best military architectures in Southern India. The fort is known for its grand ramparts and wide moats. This magnificent fort is spread over 133 acres of land in 0.54 square kilometers. It is situated at an altitude of 220 meters, i.e. 720 feet. It is believed that there existed an escape tunnel 12 kilometers long, connecting this fort with Virinjipuram.

This fort is unique in that it houses three religious places of worship. A temple, mosque, and church exist inside the fort. Jalakandeswarar temple, a mosque, and St. John’s Church are the historical places to visit, all situated inside the fort.

This Fort once served as the headquarters of the Aravidu Dynasty (of the Vijayanagara Empire). This fort is one of the leading historical places in India, during the 16th to 20th centuries. The fort changed hands to Bijapur sultans, Marathas, Carnatic Nawabs, and finally to The British, before Indian Independence. The Archaeological Department of the Indian Government now maintains the fort.

The British have held Tipu Sultan‘s family and Sri Vikrama Rajasinha (the last king of Sri Lanka), as prisoners in this fort. Sriranga Raya of the Vijayanagara royal family was massacred in this fort. This fort is where the first significant military rebellion against The British, the Vellore Mutiny, erupted in 1806.

How Do I Go to Vellore Fort?

One of the leading historical monuments in India, Vellore Fort, is easily accessible by road and train. It’s at the heart of the town, and cabs can take you to the fort entrance. Katpadi Junction railway station is the nearest railway station to Vellore Fort, at around 7.2 kilometers.

Vellore Airport does not offer passenger transport. Chennai airport is the nearest airport at 140 kilometers distance. Bengaluru airport is around 215 kilometers from Vellore.