Vellore

The Vellore Fort which is said to have been built during Channa Bommi Nayaka and Thimma Reddy Nayaka in the 15th century and happens to be one of the best examples of military architecture in South India. These two who built Vellore fort were Chieftains under Sadashiva Raya who was the ruler of Vijayanagara at that time. It is one of the most massive forts built during its time and is considered as one of the unique forts in India. It is spread over an area of more than 500 meters, situated at an altitude of 220m. Located right in the centre of the city, it has a giant moat at its entrance, where 10,000 crocodiles used to swim earlier.

Periyar Park centrally located in the city of Vellore is a spot frequently visited by both locals and tourists. It is a park with state-of-the-art facilities for joggers, family picnics and other pastimes. This place is best known for its vibrant green matting all over and the different species of birds here. The park has an entirely separate section for birds; it features a 1-kilometre long path for charming promenades, attractive benches, a roller-skating area, fully-functioning toilets and a children’s play area with battery-powered cars and motorcycles. Periyar Park ensure the enjoyment of people of all ages!

Located at a distance of 26 km from Vellore, Arcot is a small town in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Flanked by River Palar, the town boasts of a rich history. The city is known for being the ancient trade route between Madras and Salem or present day Chennai and Bangalore. Earlier known as Thiruvazhundur, Arcot was the headquarters of Nawab of Carnatic and was also ruled by the Cholas, Marathas, Pallavas, Nayaks and Bikapur Sultans. The highlight of the town however, is its sweet meat called ‘Makkan Peda’ which is popular worldwide. Among the most popular attraction of town are the Delhi Gate and Arcot Fort.

Situated under the Javadu Hills in Amirthi near Vellore in Tamil Nadu, Amirthi Zoological Park is a massive zoological park that is also one of the top tourist attractions in the region. Sprawling over 25 hectares, the highlight of the zoological park is its several mesmerizing waterfalls. Besides, half of the park has been developed into a zoological spot for the tourists while the other half of it has been developed into a wildlife sanctuary. Boasting of several varieties of rare and exotic wildlife species, you can also enjoy trekking in the park. Among the variety of animals present here are spotted deer, hedgehog, reason monkeys, red headed parrots, love birds, wild cats, eagles, ducks, pigeons, wild parrots, rabbits, and pythons etc.

Known as the "Troy of the East" by the British, Gingee Fort is located in Villupuram District of Tamil Nadu, 160 kilometres from the state capital, Chennai and near the Union Territory of Puducherry. Locals have given the fort some notable names such as Senji, Chenji, Jinji or Senchi Fort. The majestic fort has three different hilltop citadels and a massive boundary of thick walls and cliffs. Owing to its enormous structure the fort is fortified to the extent that Shivaji, the Maratha king, named it as the "most impregnable fortress in India." Visiting the fort makes one learn the reason for why it has been called by such influential names. As you reach the fort, you realise that it has been located at the most strategic location which made it difficult for the enemies to enter its premise. The fort indeed is a result of genius minds. Constructed mostly in the 16th century by the Vijayanagara Empire, the fort was later captured by the Marathas following the rule of Mughals, French and British on it. The fort was then sadly abandoned in the 19th century. Today while few foreigners visit her, Gingee is heavily flocked by the domestic tourists for starring in various films. The main road between Puducherry and Tiruvannamalai segments through the fort, just to the west of Gingee town. Out of the three citadels situated atop, the most unchallenging to reach is Krishnagiri which rises on the north side of the road. To the west is the highest of the three, Rajagiri, and the most distant and least compelling is Chakklidurg which lies in the south-east direction. The remnants of the Gingee fort and their dramatic beauty form a peaceful setting making it a very worthwhile spot. Hence, a day trip to the fort is no harm. You surely are going to return with some fantastic pictures and a rich sense of history.

The Punganoor Lake is one of the most popular artificial lakes in Tamil nadu. The man made lake covers nearly 60 sq. meters of land. There is also a fountain in the middle and boating facilities are available.