Vellore had the privilege of being the seat of the Pallava, Chola, Nayak, Maratha, Arcot Nawabs and Bijapur Sultan Kingdoms. It was described as the best and the strongest fortress during the Carnatic War in the 17th Century. It witnessed the massacre of European soldier during the mutiny of 1806.

Vellore district lies between 12° 15’ to 13° 15’ North latitudes and 78° 20’ to 79° 50’ East longitudes in Tamilnadu State. The geographical area of this district is 6077 sq. k.m. The total population as per 1991 Census is 30, 26,432.

Vellore, the Headquarters of Vellore District, is well connected by Rail and Bus routes to major towns of the neighboring states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. The history of the District assumes great significance and relevance, as we unfold the glorious past. The Monuments found in the district give a vivid picture of the town through the ages. In the 18th Century Vellore District was the scene of some of the decisive battles fought in Ambur 1749 A.D., Arcot 1751 A.D. and Vandavasi 1768 A.D. as a result of the long – drawn struggle between the English and the French for Supremacy.

Vellore Fort

Vellore Fort built in 16th century by Sinna Bommi Nayak, a vasal chieftain under the Vijayanagar kings, Sada Sriranga Maharaja. It is constructed of granite blocks and surrounded by a moat which is supplied by a subterranean drain fed from a tank. Later, it became the fortress of Mortaza Ali, the brother-in-law of Chanda Sahib who claimed the Arcot throne, and was taken by the Adil Shah sultans of Bijapur. In 1676, it passed briefly into the hands of the Marathas until they, in turn, were displaced by the nawab, Daud Khan, of Delhi in 1708. The British occupied the fort in 1760, following the fall of Srirangapatnam and the death of Tipu Sultan

Jalakanteshwara Temple

This temple, built around 1550 A.D, is still a gem of late Vijayanagar architecture and is a popular place of worship. This ancient temple is named after Jalakanteswara, or “Lord Siva residing in the water.” Its pillared mandapam, famed for its sculptures is considered a masterpiece of it's time. This temple is located in the Vellore Fort, near the north wall of the fort.