Vellore, India

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Vellore, India

Region: Tamil Nadu

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Geographic Coordinates: 12.916500, 79.132500

Climate: Seasonal.

Population: 696110

Language: Tamil

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Vellore is a city located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. It sits on the banks of the Palar River and has a population of around 500, 000 people. The city boasts a rich history dating back to the 9th century when it was under the rule of the Pallava dynasty. Throughout its history, Vellore has been governed by various dynasties including Cholas, Vijayanagar Empire and British colonialists. One of Vellore’s most famous landmarks is its fort which was constructed during Vijayanagar Empire’s reign in 16th century AD.

The fort spans across an area of 133 acres and comprises several buildings such as a temple, Mosque, Church and barracks for soldiers. Additionally, One can find one of India’s oldest hospitals – Christian Medical College (CMC) – within the fort’s walls which was founded in 1900. Another popular attraction in Vellore is Jalakandeswarar Temple devoted to Lord Shiva which dates back to 8th century AD featuring intricate carvings on its walls that depict Hindu mythology. Other temples such as Sri Lakshmi Narsimha Swamy Temple and Sri Selva Vinayagar Temple also attract pilgrims from all over India.

Vellore is also renowned for its silk sarees woven using traditional methods passed down through generations with pure silk threads containing intricate designs woven into them using gold or silver threads. Throughout the year, Several festivals are hosted by Vellore including Pongal (harvest festival), Diwali (festival of lights) and Navratri (nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga). During these festivals streets are decorated with lights while music performances take place accompanied by feasts. The cuisine found within Vellore reflects its cultural heritage with dishes like dosa (rice pancake), Idli (steamed rice cake), Sambar (lentil soup) and biryani (spiced rice dish)

being popular. Additionally, There are several street food stalls serving local delicacies such as Vada Pav, Chaat, And Kachori. Vellore is a culturally rich city with a fascinating history and diverse attractions. Its landmarks, Festivals, Cuisine and textiles make it a must-visit destination for tourists looking to explore the cultural heritage of India.

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1. Vellore Fort
2. Jalakandeswarar Temple
3. Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple
4. Government Museum, Vellore
5. Amirthi Zoological Park
6. Sripuram Spiritual Park
7. Yelagiri Hills
8. Vainu Bappu Observatory
9. Kavalur Observatory
10. St John’s Church

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1. Healthcare
2. Education
3. Leather production and exports
4. Agriculture
5. Handicrafts
6. Tourism
7. IT/ITES sector

Vellore is renowned for:

• Christian Medical College (CMC) and Hospital
• VIT University
• Government Law College
• Voorhees College

Leather production is a significant industry in Vellore:

• The city is a major hub for leather exports in India
• The region around the city produces crops like rice, sugarcane, mangoes, and bananas

The handicraft industry in Vellore is thriving:

• Products such as brassware items, wood carvings, stone sculptures, and silk sarees are produced

Tourism plays a vital role in Vellore’s economy:

• Fort Vellore
• Jalakandeswarar Temple
• Amirthi Zoological Park
• Yelagiri Hills

IT/ITES companies operate within the city:

• Wipro Technologies Limited
• Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

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Noteable History

1. Vellore Mutiny: The first war of Indian independence began in 1806 with the Vellore Mutiny, which was a rebellion against British rule by Indian soldiers.
2. Tipu Sultan: The famous ruler of Mysore, Tipu Sultan, had his capital at Srirangapatna near Vellore.
3. Arcot Nawab’s Palace: The Arcot Nawab’s Palace in Vellore is a significant historical monument that was built during the reign of the Nawabs of Arcot.
4. Christian Medical College (CMC): The Christian Medical College in Vellore is one of India’s leading medical institutions and was established in 1900 by Dr Ida S Scudder.
5. Kalki Krishnamurthy: Kalki Krishnamurthy was a renowned Tamil writer who hailed from Manalurpet near Vellore.
6. Jalagandeeswarar Temple: Jalagandeeswarar Temple is an ancient temple located on the banks of Palar River in Vellore district and is known for its architectural beauty.
7. Sathya Sai Baba: Sathya Sai Baba visited and conducted several philanthropic activities in and around Vellore during his lifetime.
8. Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Arignar Anna Zoological Park located near Chennai has its origin from the erstwhile zoo at Saidapet, Chennai started in 1855 later shifted to various locations until it moved to its present location at vandalur reserve forest near Chennai city.
9. VIT University: VIT University (VIT), formerly called as Vellore Engineering College, founded by Dr.G Viswanathan, is one among top private universities located across India.

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Museums and Things To See

1. Vellore Fort is a 16th-century fort built by the Vijayanagara Empire and is now a popular tourist attraction.
2. The Government Museum displays ancient artifacts and sculptures from the Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagara Empires.
3. Jalakandeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
4. Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple is a modern temple made of gold that attracts thousands of visitors every year.
5. Amirthi Zoological Park is a wildlife sanctuary with various species of animals like spotted deer, peacock, monkeys etc.
6. Christian Medical College & Hospital Museum displays the history of Christian Medical College & Hospital which is one of the premier medical institutions in India.
7. Sripuram Golden Mahalakshmi Temple located in Thirumalaikodi which is famous for its golden structure.
8. Vainu Bappu Observatory located in Kavalur which is open to public viewing on certain days.
9. Palace Grounds are a park located near Vellore Fort where tourists can enjoy boating and other recreational activities.

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Sports Teams

1. Cricket: Cricket is the most popular sport in India and is widely played in Vellore. The city has produced several talented cricketers who have represented the state and national teams.
2. Football: Football is also a popular sport in Vellore with several local clubs participating in tournaments at district and state levels.
3. Volleyball: Volleyball is another popular sport played extensively across schools, colleges, and universities.
4. Basketball: Basketball has gained popularity among youth with many schools and colleges having their own teams.

Some of the local clubs that participate actively in various tournaments include:

1. VIT University Cricket Team
2. CMC Cricket Club
3. Christian College Football Club
4. Auxilium College Volleyball Team
5. Voorhees College Basketball Team

However, it’s important to note that this information might not be up-to-date or comprehensive as sports team histories can change over time due to various factors like popularity of the sport or availability of resources for training facilities etc..

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Cultural Events

1. VIT Riviera is an annual cultural and sports festival that takes place at the Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) university campus.
2. Pongal is a popular harvest festival that is celebrated in Tamil Nadu, including Vellore, usually in mid-January. It involves cooking rice in milk and sugar, decorating homes with kolams (rangoli), and exchanging gifts.
3. Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival that is dedicated to Lord Shiva and observed on the 14th day of every lunar month. In Vellore, it involves visiting temples, performing puja (worship), fasting, and offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
4. Diwali or the Festival of Lights is celebrated across India in October or November each year. In Vellore, people light diyas (oil lamps), decorate their homes with rangolis (colorful patterns made from colored powder or rice flour), exchange sweets and gifts with family members and friends.
5. Although not held specifically in Vellore but nearby city Haridwar which attracts millions of pilgrims from all over India for this religious festival that happens once every 12 years at four different locations across India including Haridwar where it was last held in 2021.
6. Vishu: Vishu is a Malayalam New Year celebration observed on the first day of Medam month according to Kerala’s solar calendar which usually falls on April 14th every year . People celebrate by lighting lamps , wearing new clothes , preparing traditional dishes like Vishu kanji etc .
7. Onam: Onam marks the homecoming of King Mahabali who ruled Kerala before his defeat by Lord Vishnu; it’s another important festival celebrated by Malayalis around August-September every year . People celebrate by decorating their houses with flowers , preparing traditional dishes like Onam sadya etc .
8. Christmas: Vellore has a significant Christian population that celebrates Christmas in December. People decorate their homes with lights and stars, exchange gifts and sweets, attend midnight mass at churches.
9. Ramzan: Ramzan is the month-long Islamic festival of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide . In Vellore, people celebrate by offering special prayers , fasting during the day and breaking fast in the evening with delicious Iftar meals .
10. Holi: Holi is a colorful festival celebrated across India usually in March every year. People play with colors , water guns , balloons etc to celebrate this joyous occasion which signifies the victory of good over evil.

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Cuisine

1. Biryani: This famous dish can be found at various local restaurants.
2. Dosa: Another popular dish that can be found at many street food stalls.
3. Sambar Rice: A traditional South Indian dish available at many local eateries.
4. Pongal: A breakfast dish made with rice and lentils, served with chutney and sambar.
5. Parotta: A layered flatbread made from maida flour that goes well with chicken or mutton curry.
6. Madurai Kumar Mess: This restaurant serves authentic South Indian meals like sambar rice, rasam rice, curd rice etc., which are very popular among the locals.
7. A2B – Adyar Ananda Bhavan: This chain of restaurants serves vegetarian South Indian dishes like dosas, idlis etc., which are loved by people of all ages.
8. Hotel Saravana Bhavan: This restaurant serves delicious vegetarian food including thalis, dosas etc., that are perfect for lunch or dinner.
9. Amirtham Restaurant: Offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes including biryanis, parottas etc., this restaurant is worth trying out when in Vellore.
10. Rangalaya Royal Restaurant – An upscale dining experience serving North Indian & Chinese Cuisine along with live music entertainment on weekends.

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Parks and Recreation

1. Vellore Fort Park
2. Amirthi Zoological Park
3. Jalakandeswarar Temple Park
4. Virinjipuram Sivan Temple Park
5. Mahendra Gandhi Memorial Government Park
6. Kavalur Observatory
7. Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple
8. Yelagiri Hills Adventure Sports and Trekking
9. Punganoor Lake and Boating Club
10. Swamimalai Hills Trekking Trail

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Go Where The Road Takes You.

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