Vellore, City of Spears

Vellore (State: Tamil Nadu) is at a distance 145 kms from Chennai in one direction and in another direction 215 kms from Bangalore. We started from Bangalore in the morning and reached this place in the early afternoon. The city has prominent colleges, ancient temples and one of the best hospitals in India (Christian Medical College & Hospital). (Click on the images for bigger view)

The name 'Vellore' in local language means 'City of Spears'. Ancient history shows that, this place was basically a battle field and it was always left with the abandoned weapons like spears throughout the year. It was the seat of power for various dynasties like the Pallavas, Cholas, Nayak, Marathas. The major tourist attractions here are:

• Vellore Fort
• Jalakanteswara Temple

We shall explore these attractions in some more detail soon.

Trip to Tamil Nadu

I had the pleasure of traveling through the state of Tamil Nadu to see various places. I undertook a 8 day trip across the state. (Click on images for bigger view)

We started from Bangalore by a hired car and covered the following cities: Vellore, Tanjore, Chidambaram, Kumbakonam, Chennai, Mamallapuram, Kancheepuram, Gangaikondacholapuram, Darasuram, Madurai, Trichi, Srirangam. I also covered the Pondicherry even though it is not part of the state as I had to pass through it.

Tamil Nadu, The Land of Temples

The state of Tamil Nadu has a history that dates back to several thousand years where the traditions and culture live in harmony. The state has plenty of monuments and temples that are ancient and each of them are artistic. It is better known as can 'The Land of Temples' for the number of temples that can be seen here built over its centuries. The architecture and design of these temple have seen a change across centuries. It is home to more than 30,000 temples with every one of them being an architectural gem.

Apart of temples there are various natural resources across the state. It has a long coastline that stretches nearly a 1000 kms. Golden sands of the beach are dotted with coconut palm and casuarina groves. In the hill stations of the state one can stroll through the clouds afloat, and admire the nature.

I had the pleasure of touring some of the cities of this beautiful state. I have covered in my various trips in the state: Vellore, Tanjore, Chidambaram, Kumbakonam, Chennai, Mamallapuram, Kancheepuram, Gangaikondacholapuram, Darasuram, Madurai, Trichi, Ooty, Kode. Come travel with me and enjoy.