Vellore Fort

Vellore Fort is a 16th-century granite fort located in the heart of Vellore city, Tamil Nadu. Built in 1566 by Vijayanagara chieftains Chinna Bommi Nayak and Thimma Reddy Nayak, it is renowned for its massive ramparts, wide water-filled moat and robust double walls. The fort complex houses the Jalakanteswarar Temple, St. John's Church, a mosque, Tipu Mahal and the Government Museum, reflecting its layered history under Vijayanagara, Bijapur, Maratha and British rule.

Visitors can expect a large fortified complex surrounded by a broad moat and high granite walls with bastions. Inside, they can explore the ornate Jalakanteswarar Temple with Vijayanagara carvings, St. John's Church, a historic mosque, Tipu Mahal and the Government Museum displaying bronze, stone sculptures, coins and artifacts. The grounds include open courtyards, gardens, ramparts and pathways for walking, sightseeing and photography.

Constructed in 1566 by Vijayanagara chieftains Chinna Bommi Nayak and Thimma Reddy Nayak under Vijayanagara Empire. Subsequently held by the Sultanate of Bijapur, Marathas, Nawabs of Arcot and the British. The fort is noted for its military architecture with double ramparts and moat, and was the site of the Vellore Mutiny in 1806. Tipu Mahal inside housed family members of Tipu Sultan after the fall of Srirangapatna.

The fort complex reflects multi-cultural heritage with the Hindu Jalakanteswarar Temple showcasing Vijayanagara art, St. John's Church representing colonial-era Christian architecture, and an old mosque. The Government Museum preserves regional art, archaeology and heritage, making the fort a cultural landmark of Vellore.