Getting to the CME

Nearest Airports:

  • Chenai International Airport: 140 KM, 3 hours away
  • Kempegowda International Airport Bangalore: 200 KM, 4 hours away

Nearest Railway Station:

  • Katpadi Railway Station: 12 KM, 45 mins away

Travelling In Vellore:

  • Take Autorikshaws
  • Maya Call Taxi: 1800-425-224455

Scudder Auditorium, Christian Medical College Bagayam Campus

Hotels to stay in Vellore

We have compiled a list of hotel options for stay. Download it below.

Places to visit in Vellore

Vellore Fort

Visit Vellore Fort — one of the best-preserved 16th-century forts in South India, known for its moat, stone ramparts, and heritage structures.
Inside the fort complex, walk through:
Vijayanagara Era Shri Jalakandeswarar Temple, Vellore for intricate carvings and classic Vijayanagara architecture.
CSI St. John's Church, Vellore for colonial-era history.
Tipu and Haider Mahal for a quick historical stop.
The fort area is compact, making it ideal for a half-day heritage walk.

Golden Temple

Head to Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple - Vellore City at sunset.
The temple lights up beautifully in the evening and is considered one of the top attractions around Vellore for its golden architecture and calm atmosphere.

Cup and Saucer Waterfalls

Ensconced by thick trees and bushes, the beauty it beholds is worth watching. The name of this waterfall is attributed to its unique shape that appears as if a cup of water is pouring its contents into a massive saucer.
The gorgeous site can be best enjoyed from atop the hill. To reach the top of the hill, take an exciting and adventurous trek through the lush green forests surrounding the fall.

Amirthi Zoological Park

One of the most significant tourist places in Vellore, the Amirthi Zoological Park is every animal lover’s delight. There is also one of the best Yelagiri waterfalls and picturesque waterfall within this zoo, where tourists can enjoy a few calm moments. You would get to see several exotic species of birds and animals starting from hedgehogs, deer, a variety of monkeys and a range of reptiles.
Not only that, but you would also get to see many endangered plant species and flowers. This park, with its wildlife variety, continues to be a popular spot for exploration, studies, and recreation.

Short Trips Around Vellore

Yelagiri Hills

Distance from Vellore: ~95 km (2–2.5 hours drive)
A quiet hill station in the Eastern Ghats, Yelagiri is ideal if you want cooler weather, greenery, and a relaxed pace.
What to do:
Punganoor Lake – boating, pedal boats, and lakeside walking.
Nature Park – landscaped garden, aquarium, musical fountain (family-friendly).
Swamimalai Trek – moderate trek with panoramic hill views.
Jalagamparai Waterfalls – best after monsoon; scenic stop.
Hairpin bends drive – 14 bends with viewpoints along the way.

Vallimalai Temple

Distance from Vellore: ~30 km (45–60 minutes)
A spiritual hill destination with caves, temple steps, and scenic views.
What to do:
Climb roughly 300+ steps to the hill temple.
Visit the ancient rock-cut cave shrines.
Enjoy panoramic countryside views from the top.
Explore the peaceful temple atmosphere away from crowds.

Vainu Bappu Observatory

Distance from Vellore: ~90 km (2–2.5 hours)
One of India’s important astronomical observatories run by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
What makes it special:
Located in a dark-sky forest region ideal for astronomy.
Houses one of Asia’s large optical telescopes.
Excellent for science lovers and peaceful drives.
Things to know:
Public entry is limited and often available only on select days.
Night sky visibility is best during clear months.
The drive itself through forest roads is scenic.

Ambur

Distance: ~50 km from Vellore
A foodie day trip famous for authentic Ambur biryani.
What to do:
Try traditional Ambur-style biryani.
Explore leather shops and local markets.
Great stop during a drive toward Yelagiri.