Vellore

History And Geography

Vellore had the previlege of being the seat of the Pallava, Chola, Nayak, Maratha, Arcot Nawabs and Bijapur Sultan Kindoms. It was described as the best and the strongest fortress in the Carnatic War in the 17th Century. It was 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.

People

The cultural impact in the society is also very significant same of the traditional arts of the District like the Therukoothu., an art form folk theaters, Kokkalikottai, a famous traditional dance in the district are gradually vanishing. But it is also a matter of solace to note that some of the handicrafts for which the Vellore district are renowned, are still flourishing . Mats making in Walajapet, silk weaving in Arni and the traditional art of pot making in Vellore and places around, are some of the handicrafts which are enable to successfully withstand challenges through ages. The poomalai., scheme that has been introduced by the govt. will not only preserve the traditional handicrafts, but also promote their growth.

Industry

"Small scale Industrial undertakings are those which are engaged in the manufacture, processing or preservation of goods and in which investment in plant and machinery (original cost) does not exceed Rs.1.00 crores with effect from 24.12.99 whether held on ownership terms,or on lease or on hire purchase."

Provisional SSI registration certificate are being issued within 3 days from the date of receipt of application. This certificate engaged to get clearance on prority to get E.B. connection, financial assistance and plan approval by local bodies.

The Permanent SSI registration certificate are being issued for the units who have started the production, repairing,and servicing activity after the personal inspection by Dist.Industries Centre officials. Certificates are issued within 30days from the date of application. All incentives could be availed only after obtaining Permanent certificate.

Existing Cottage/Handicraft certificates having plant and machinery value not exceeding Rs.5.00 Lakhs and5 H.P.power connection are being issued with Cottage Industries/Handicraft certificate. It is being issued within 30 days from the date of receipt of application.

Carnatic Music

Walajapet Venkataramana Bagavathar
Walajapet Venkataramana Bagavathar [ 1781 -1874 ] born in Ayyampettai of Tanjore District is one of among the reputed disciple of sain Thyagarajar later got settle in Walajapet Ttaluk of vellore District so as to teach music to the king of karavetti town. He reserved greatly to the world of Carnatic Music by preserving and rendering back the Keerthanas of Thyagarajar. He has composed “ Shri Guru Sthothrashtakam” and “Shri Guru Mangalashtakam” in praise of his guru Thyagarajar . The Keerthanas of Thyagarajar has reached the public very much through Venkataramana Bagavathar his son Krishnaswamy Bagavathar had from his other disciples, this the legacy of Walajapet was created in the genre of Carnatic Music. To commemorate the fame of Venkataramana Bagavathar a three day music festival is celebrated every year in Ayyampettai. In praise of his contributions to the world of Carnatic Music the Indian Postal Department honored by releasing a stamp and a first day cover firt Venkataramana Bagavathar in the year 2009.

Folk Art

Theru Koothu
Theru koothu is said to be one of the traditional and prominent art forms of Tamil Nadu. This art form comprises of three branches of Tamil namely Eyal, Isai and Drama. This art form is practised widely in the districts of Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, South Arcot and Kancheepuram. This art form is mainly classified in to two categories namely, the Southern Style and the Northern Style. The Southern Style is practised in the South Arcot Districts and Pondichery and Northern Style is practised in the districts of Tiruvannamalai, Vellore and Kancheepuram. The Northern Style uses the musical instrument namely Mugaveena. Northern Style artistes wear stiff skirts. The Therukoothu art form is mostly performed in Villages during the months from Panguni to Purattasi.

A Therukoothu team comprises of 15 artistes. Therukoothu is also referred to as “Sama”. The head of the team is called as “ Vathiyar ” who trains the artistes. The Therukoothu is mostly considered as one of the temple rituals. Wooden (Kattai) covered body is one the significant features of this Therukoothu art form and hence it is also called as Kattaikoothu. The artistes who perform this art form generally cover their shoulders, arms, heads with big crown, Chest with cover made up of wood. Artistes cover their waists with sarees and show their hips as large as possible which is considered very important in this art form. Music is an important part of Therukoothu art form. Dolak or Miruthangam, Jalra (Thaalam), Harmoniyam (sruthy box) are the musical instruments employed in this art form. In most of the Therukoothu groups, either Mugaveena or Flute is played. The accompanists play musical instruments and simultaneously sing loudly from the background in resonance with the songs sung by Therukoothu artistes performing on stage.

“Therukoothu” is also performed in the tamil month of Maasi during the ritual of “Manmadan Erippu” (Burining of effigy of Manmadan). Some of the incidences played in Therukoothu are as follows: Draupadi’s Wedding Subhadra’s Wedding Raja Suya Yagam Molestation of Draupadi Arjuna’s Penance Kuravanji dance performances Keechaka Vadham – “Slaying of Keechaka in Mahabharatam” Lord Krishna as a Messenger Abimanyu’s Fight King Karna’s Liberation 18th day of Mahabarata War Therukoothu is an art of living for people in the northern districts. People of these districts hav e gained good knowledge of history and epics through this art form. They can easily identify even the minute mistakes in their theatre plays. Non – Government Organizations and many Government Departments use this ancient art of Therukoothu for their Propganda.

Kai Silambattam
In Kai Silambattam, the Dancers wear ankle-bells and hold anklets or Silambu in their hands, which make noise when shaken. Since the Music Instrument namely silambu is kept in the hands, it is also called as Kai Silambattam. This art form is also referred as Pambai Silambattam. In order to differenciate from the martial art forms of Silambattam, this art form is called as Kai Silambattam. Kai Silambattam is normally practiced in the districts of Vellore, Tiruvannamali, Kancheepuram, Dharumapuri and South Arcot (Vilupuram District). This art form is Temple based. This art form is valued as one of the ways of workship and praise of the temple deities. Though practicing of this art form pertains to Amman Temple, it is also performed as sub art form during other ocassions such as special star days, Thaipoosam day along with in Kaavadiyattam art form and in the Ear boring ceremony and Bride-groom Marriage processions.

This art form is also showcased in cultural programmes and general public stages. Kai Silambam and Pambai are the Musical instruments used for this art form and hence it is referred by title name. Among these two instruments, Kai Silambu is regarded as the main instrument and Pambai is regarded as a general instrument. There is no restriction on the number of artistes performing this art form. In general, two / four / six or Eight artistes perform this art. There is no age restriction for this art form. Any one who possess good physical stamina can perform this art form. This art form is traditionally learnt from senior artistes. There are no prescribed costumes for this art form. The artistes wear Silambu in their legs.

Kokkali kattaiyattam
This art form is performed by artistes who dance by using lengthy wooden sticks tied to their legs. Since the lengthy wooden sticks tied to their legs resemble the legs of Crane Bird (kokku), it is called as Kokku Kattaiyattam and later in practice, came to be known as Kokkali Kattaiyattam. This art form is prominent in Vellore District. Though this art form is confined to temple, it is now widely spread and also performed during Public functions and Social functions. This art form is connected with Gangai Amman Temple festival. This art form is performed by the Devotees of Gangai Amman. The Artistes observe fasting during their performance. Only male artistes perform this art. There is no age restriction for this art form but only needs physical stamina. Mostly, the number of artistes performing will be in even numbers. Thappu, Chatty, Dolak (Dole) are the musical instruments used in this art form. There is no restriction on the number of Kokkali Kattai Artists, but only four artistes will be playing musical instruments. The height of the stick used for Kokkali Kattai art form ranges from 60 c.m. to 150 c.m. This stick is made of wood from trees like Aal, Kalyana Murungai, Thanakku, Nulaa and Agathy. The artistes initially check the stability of the wooden stick and choose the good ones for their performance. The wooden sticks are beautified by pasting colourful papers and paints. The artists normally widen their hands side ways so as to earmark their area for performance. During performance, the artists leave and maintain sufficient space for their walk in the procession.

Servaiyattam
This art form is performed with the help of a Musical instrument called “ Servai ” and hence the name. This art form is performed by Kurumbars and therefore it is also called by different names such as Kurumbarattam, Servaikoothu and Kurumba Koothu. Kurumbars are a class of tribal people said to be migrated from the states of Andhra and Karnataka. Kurumbars are worshippers of Lord Shiva. Their important Deity is Lord Veerabadra. The breaking of coconut shell on the head of a Kurumba community man by the priest of that community is called “Thalaikai Udaithal”. The important musical instrument of Servaiyattam is Servai. Apart from Servai, musical instruments such as Flute, Jalra, Kilu Kiluppai are also used for the performance of this art form. Only male artistes perform this art form. There is no age restriction for the artistes. Six to twele artistes participate in the performance of this art form.

The songs played in Servaiyattam are mostly related to the temples where the performance is conducted. It is important to sing songs of Lord Veerabadra. Also, Pandava‘s forest exile, Kamatchi Amman Virutham, Manmathan Story, Natarasar patthu, Themmangu Songs and Gummi Songs are also sung. Comedy songs are also sung in between main songs.

Handicrafts

Karigiri Pottery
The famous Karigiri magic pots are being produced the chine day in the village of Karigiri, which is located 15 kilo meters away from the Vellore district. The pots were specially made for the arcot nawabs dating 400 years back since. As only a very few family were involved in this pot making. it is currently about to decline. The water poured in the jug will not come out at the top or where it is poured. Rather it will come only in the stout specially designed for the purpose such pots was designed for the food safety of the nawabs. Apart from these magical jars “Maya Krishna & Shiva lingam” pots were also made the water poured in these specially designed jugs will not come down until it reaches a certain height.

Walajah Cane Furnitures
In walajapet beauty cosmetics and home furniture made of Bamboo was produced specially for the nawabs 400 years back and the work of art continuous till date. Earlier only few families were involved in this work of art. But currently many others are practicing and involved in it. This work of art is being developed by the organisation registered under the Khadi board.

Events and Festivals

Gangaiamman Festival
A major festival called ‘Gangai Amman Thiruvizha’ is celebrated in Gudiyatham town in a grand scale every year on the first day of the Thamizh month Vaikasi. For this festival local hloliday will be declared by Vellore District Administration.

Pushpa Pallakku
on chithra pournami, procession of the illuminated and flower-bedecked palanquins carried the idols from important temples of Vellore city carried out.

Yelagiri Summer Festival
The annual summer festival in Yelagiri Hills is organised by the district administration to promote tourism in Yelagiri. Various cultural programme, events are conducted by various departments

Tourism

Dating back to the 13th Century this ancient Fort is the main attraction for tourists. This historically famous fort retains the past glory with its ramparts, barlements, turrets, posts, and sally gates and with perennial water supply.Double walls fortify it and the main walls are of made massive granite blocks laid one over the other without using mortar.The fort houses a church, Jalagandeeswarar Temple, and many buildings. Many Government offices are located in these buildings.

Golden Temple (Sri Puram) is a Spiritual park situated at the foot of a small range of green hills in a place known as Malaikodi in the city of Vellore in Tamil nadu, India.The salient Feature of Sripuram is the Lakshmi Narayani temple or Mahalakshmi temple whose Vimanam and Ardha Mandapam have been coated with gold both in the interior and exterior.The temple is located on20 acres of land and has been constructed by Vellore-based Sri Narayani Peedam, headed by spiritual leader Sri Sakthi Amma.

The temple, covering 55,000 sq ft, has intricate carvings and sculptures in gold. The lighting is arranged in such a way that the temple glitters even during night.The Sripuram is the biggest structure made out of gold.Even the Sadari, a crown with feet of the lord engraved on it, is made of solid gold weighing 1 kg.The outer pathway of the temple is made out in the shape of a Star. The walls of the pathway have inscriptions of teachings of Sakthi amma, Gita, Bible Quran and the {Guru Granth Sahib Ji]. Only people who believe in more than one god are allowed to enter the temple. All people have to go through the Star shaped pathway to reach the sanctum.The Inner praharam of the temple resembles the circular structure of the Parliament of India. The temple is at the southern end of the city of Vellore, at Tirumalaikodi.It is located on the way to Anaicut, on Usoor Road. It's under Corporation limits.

Govt. Mesuem: Inside the Fort, Vellore Kavalur in Vaniyambadi Taluk has an array to telescopes of various apertures 15 inches (38 cm) and 30 inches (75 cm) 40 inches (1metre) commissioned in 1972 and the new Computer controlled 2.3 metre aperture telescope, whose tube is mounted at the centre of a yoke attached on its North side to a massive horse-shoe.

Location: Elagiri Hills in Tirupathur Taluk. 75 Kms from Vellore Considered as the Ooty of Vellore District, this stands eloquent amidst four mountains, at a height of 3500 feet above sea level is gifted with natural scenic beauty(lakes, lush green forest) cool & pleasant climate and convenient location.. A solemn summer resort, this place has comfortable lodging house, rest houses, and Government Travellers Bunglows. A church with exquisite craftsmanship and a beautiful park adorn these hills as an ideal tourist spot. Other places of interest are Poly Garden House (Lake side), Sericulture Farm (Mangalam Village), Jalagamparai Water Falls, Mangalam Fishing Pond, Nachiamman Koil, Murugan Koil and Valley View point, Thayalur Horiculture Farm (YMCA Boys camp), Telescope House.

Location Of Muthu mandapam(Pearl place):On the bed of Palar river in Vellore Town. This is a memorial built around the tombstone of Vikramaraja Singh, the last candy Tamil rule. To this memorial are going to be added an aquarium, a Children's Park, a lawn and three decorative arches. Amirthi forest is 25Km from Vellore and is a nice picnic spot. Palar Anaicut Dam. Ratnagiri temple is situated in 12 Kms.

How to reach Vellore

By Road: Vellore is connected with major cities in the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The National Highways passing through Vellore are NH 46 (Bangalore – Chennai road), NH 234 (Mangalore to Viluppuram) and NH 4 from Ranipet to Chennai and the Cuddalore-Chittoor.
By Rail: Katpadi Junction is the main railway junction situated in Vellore.
By Air: The nearest International airport is Chennai Airport (135km)

Tourist Information
Tourist officer,
Tourist office,
Fort Vellore – 630004.
LandLine : 0416 – 2217974

Places of Interest

Vellore Fort

The Fort was constructed by then the ruler Bommu Nayakar and his brother during 1526-1595 AD The First Mutiny against the British in India broke out in Vellore Fort (1806 – Sippoy Kalagam)Tippu Mahal, Hyder Mahal, Condy Mahal, Badhusha Mahal and the Begam Mahal in side the Fort.The fort at Vellore is one of the great attractions in the District. It is Said to have been built by Chinna Boomi Nayaka a subordinate under Sadasivaraya of the Vijayanagara Kindom in mid of 16th Century A.D. The fort was occupied by the British in 1760 and used as a military garrison. The rectangular fort with a circumference of 3km is built entirely with massive granite cut stones.The fort contains both secular and religious structures including tippu Mahal, Begum Mahal, Kandi Mahal, Jalakanteswara Temple, A mosque and a Church Museums also established by 01, April 1999 in this fort by the Archaeological Survey of India and State Department.

Golden Temple - Sripuram

The temple is located on 100 acres of land and has been constructed by the Vellore-based charitable trust, Sri Narayani Peedam, headed by its spiritual leader Sri Sakthi Amma also known as ‘Narayani Amma’. The temple with its gold (1500 kg) covering, has intricate work done by artisans specialising in temple art using gold. Every single detail was manually created, including converting the gold bars into gold foils and then mounting the foils on copper. Gold foil from 9 layers to 10 layers has been mounted on the etched copper plates. Every single detail in the temple art has significance from the vedas.

Yelagiri Hills

Yelagiri Hills is one of the hill stations of Tamil Nadu. Yelagiri hill top can be reached by a winding ghat road, that has 14 hairpin bends. The seventh hairpin bend is significant, since it offers the view of the slop of the mountain and the green forest covering as a carpet of the hill. Punganur Lake which is an artificial lake made in an are of 56.706 square metres. Boating on the waters of this lake can be an enchanting experience. Other attractions are a children’s park.Near the Punganoor Lake, a Herbal Farm, is maintained by the forest Department with rare herbals used in the Siddha And Ayurvedic medical treatments.A Good Park is being formed at KODAI VIZHA THIDAL to entertain Tourists.

Amirthi Zoological Park

25Km, south of Vellore is the panoramic Amirthi Forests, rich in its variety of flora and fauna. A half of this jungle is cleared to serve as a tourist spot while the other half is developed as a wildlife sanctuary. A trek for a km leads one to a full view of seasonal water falls

Jalagamparai Waterfalls

The Attaru river flows through Yelagiri and the breaks into a beautiful fall from the mountain rocks. The fall dries up in the summer season, and is best seen around November and December.

Kavalur – Solar Observatory

The Asias biggest solar observatory is Vainu Bappu Observatory (VBO) is located in the picturesque neighbourhood of the village of Kavalur in the Javadhu Hills. Established in the 1970s, VBO hosts the 1m Carl Zeiss Telescope, the 1.3m J.C. Bhattacharya Telescope (JCBT) and the 2.3m Vainu Bappu Telescope (VBT). Prior permission is required to visit the Observatory. A large variety of deer roam around the observatory.

Narasimmar Temple, Sholingar

There is an inscription of 14th century in the Big Hill and another of 17th century in Small Hill and also a inscription in Telugu Language. There is a small window opposite to Lord Narasimhas Shrine at Big Hill, through which the Lord give darsan to Yoga Anjeneya at Small Hill. Yoga Narasimhar is facing east and the Small Hill is at the eastern side of the Big Hill. Swamy Dhottachar used to worship Lord Varadaraja Perumal of Kanchi on the third day of Brahmotchavam every year. Once he was not able to visit kanchi and thus missed the Seva. The worried Dhottachar offered prayers to Lord Varadharajar sitting on the banks of Brahma Theertham at Sholinghur.

Margabandeeshwarar Temple

Sri Margabandeeshwarar Temple, the main deity of this temple is Swayambu Lingam known as Margabandeeswarar. The Simha teertham, the tank with the lion faced sculpture located inside the temple complex is a nicely built.The most sacred Sive temple at Virinchipuram is popularly knowns as “Bhaskara Kshethiram” because the Sun is said to worship the Linga when its rays faill on it in the month of Panguni. As one enters a little distance into the eastern gate of the gopura he is attracted bya beautiful lion – faced sculpture, in the left side of the Shrine. This is a well with foot steps inside and is known as the “Simha Theertham”.

Balamurugan Temple

15km from Vellore, Ratnagiri is famous for the Murugan temple situated small hillock. It is said that the temple was built in the 14th Century A.D. But renovations were made recently.

Vallimalai Murugan Temple

This is the place where Valli Performed penance on Lord Vishnu to have the Hands of Lord Muruga,hence the Sadari Blessing with Lord Vishnu Pada (feet) is offered to Devotees in the temple.

Government Museum, Vellore

Government Museum, Vellore is situated within the premises of the historical vellore fort. This museum was established in the year 1985 as the 6th district Museum to impart knowledge about erstwhile North Arcot District (Present Vellore & Thiruvannamalai) and its Significance. Both the Districts have rich flora and fauna and cultural heritage.

Government Museum, Vellore
In early days Vellore district was ruled by Pallava, chola ,sambuvarayas, and vijayanagaras. During the reigns of sambuvarays and vijayanagaras vellore district played vital rule in the history of Tamilnadu. Vellore served as capital city during the last phase of the vijayanagra empire. Later European settlers like English and French had rivalry for Capturing the power. In this juncture , Nawabs of Arcot supported either French or English. Vellore Fort was under the control and witness series attacks, alternately, by the forces of English and French. In 1806 The first part of freedom movement ,ie., Vellore Revolt was happen in this Fort. More over successors of Tipu sultan imprisoned in this Fort. Subsequently the Last Tamil king sri vikrama Raja sinha was also jailed in this fort. Highlighting these Historical factors Government Museum,Vellore is having wide range of artifacts of Art, Archaeology, Anthropology, Geology, Botany and Zoological importance.

A fiberglass model of 16ft height life size Trynnosaurus displayed at the entrance to attract visitors. Two 18th Century cannons unearthed from Vellore fort are kept at entry level .This Museum has a Sculpture Garden wherein Stone Sculptures, Hero Stones,Inscriptions from different places and Gunpowder flasks, cannon balls are in display. Inside the building this Museum has eight different galleries, which attracts more number of students and common public and Tourists. Government Museum Vellore has 8 Galleries.

1. Introductory Gallery about the District
This Gallery has historical photographs such as Monuments , Tourist Important Places, Geographical Maps of Vellore & Thiruvannamalai are displayed.

2. Stone Sculptures Gallery
Stone Sculptures Gallery This reign was ruled by historical kingdoms like Pallava,chola and Vijayanagara dynasties. Sculptures of these dynasties Stone Sculptures displayed in this gallery.

3. Pre History and Philately Gallery
Pre History deals with Stone age,Copper age,and Iron age. Paleolithic Stone tools, Hand axes,Neolithic celts,Burial Urns, Sarcophagus and potteries of different kinds are displayed. In this Gallery. Philately is associated with stamps of different Countries Stamps pertaining to flora and fauna, Culture, historical monuments are displayed. Wood carvings also displayed in this Gallery.

4. Art Gallery
16 numbers of Contemporary Art are displayed here.Oil colour,Water colour,and acrylic paintings of different artist are displayed here.

5. Natural Science Gallery
Both wet preserved and Dry preserved specimens of zoological importance are in display.Hyena & Black Buck are displayed In a dyaroma showcase.with its environment.Aquatic birds are displayed. Marine organisms like sea horses ,fishes, crabs, corals are displayed. Medicinal plants and its uses timbers and its commercial value are kept for view. Rocks, minerals and fossils are displayed. In Geology section.

6. Bronze Gallery
South Indian Bronzes are unique ,artistically very much important.Bronze collection in this museum are acquired through Treasure-trove from vellore and Thiruvannamalai Districts. Arumballur Jain bronzes are note worthy in the bronze collection. The Last ruler of Kandi(srilanka) Tamil king Sri .Vikramarajasinga’s antiquities are very much interesting.

7. Numismatic Gallery
Coins are important source material for history.Both south Indian and North Indian coins are displayed in this gallery.

8. Anthropology Gallery
Swords of Arani Jagirdhar,Tribal objects pertaining to Kattunaicken, Malayali and Irulas and dress materials and ornaments of Lambadi peoples. Karigiri glazed potteries are best examples to know about life styles of various people.

Government Museum Vellore is window of History, Art, Culture and Heritage of the Vellore District. Visit museum to know about tangible and intangible heritage of vellore District.

Archaeological survey of India ( ASI ) Museum

The Archaeological survey of India ( ASI ) Museum is functioning inside the Badhusha Mahal and Begum Mahal of Vellore fort. The artifacts like statues, Hero stones and replica of report written about Vellore Sepoy mutiny. The working hours of museum are 10 am to 5.30 pm except on Fridays and Government holidays.

Archaeological Site Museum, Arcot

The Department of Archaeology, Government of Tamilnadu is exhibiting many antiques from the excavations is being exhibits in their museums to bring the limelight of history of Tamilnadu. An Archaeological site museum is now situated in Arcot Town. The museum exhibits the artifacts taken from excavations in Vellore District. It exhibits many historical photographs to the visitors. 360 rare artifacts are exhibited in this museum. The publications of Department of Archaeology are available for sale at reasonable price. The working hours of museum are 10 am to 5.30 pm except on Fridays and Government holidays.

Temples of Melpadi

Melpadi is a very historic place located in Walajah Taluk of Vellore District. The great King Raja Raja Cholan raised a temple here for God Somanathar. He raised a Pallipadar temple for his grandfather Arinjaya Cholan over his cemetery. It is named after the king as Arinjaya Choleeshwaran. The commendable aspects are that both the temples are located near the banks of the river Nuga. The history of Rajaraja-I, Rajaraja-II ,Koperunsingan, Sambuvarayargal, Kings of Vijaya Nagar could be found in the stone inscription of the temple, which is yet another unique feature of this monument. The Seven Mothers statues and other statues of Somanathar temples serves as a best example of sculptures found in Melpadi.

Monuments of Vallimalai

The Jain statue is a noteworthy valuable monuments of Vallimalai in Vellore District. Currently the monument is found in Katpadi Taluk. the Jain statues of 9th and 10th centuries are found in this place. The stone inscription of the Rashtrakuda king. King Krishna-III is found here. Kottaimedu and Melpadi are the historic places found near Vallimalai. The silver coins of Raja Raja Cholan was found in this place in recent times is considered to be yet another interesting part of the monumental artifacts. The Jain and Thirthangarar statues found here serves as the best example of the 9th century sculptural art.

Vilapakkam

Thirupar Malai is being preserved by the Indian Archeological Department. It is located in the Vilapakkam village limits, a road from Arcot to Kannamangalam – 6 K.Ms southeast direction from Arcot. A Pallava period cave temple is found in the southern part. The cave is built (engraved) with 6 fully sculptured pillars and two partially sculptured pillars. The roof of the cave is filled with the paintings of Jain Thirthangarar. The stone bed Jains and the debris of age old brick constructions are found here. A beautiful Goddess Ambigai – Yakshini image is engraved here. This sculpture is proud to have sculptured during the period of king Thanthivarman. The King Raja Raja had offered the village named Koorambadi to the Jain monks as an offering which is inscribed in the stone engravings. The protruding statues are beautifully seen sculptured here.

Mahendravadi

Mahendra Vishnukiraham rock carvings is one of the notable historic monument, located in Mahendravadi village of Arakonam Taluk. This monument is preserved by the Archeological Survey of India . It is a very ancient rock temple of Tamilnadu. This rock carvings were built during the period of King Mahendravarman from 600-630 AD. The Grantha script inscription of Mahendra Varman period ensure that it is Mahendra Vishnukiraham is named after the King Mahendra Varman. The carvings are done in a monolithic stone in an open space is one of the special features of the monument with a couple of full pillars and one half pillar, the same temple is constructed that attracts the visitors. Only Podhigai is carved in the pillars look very simple.

Delhi Gate

In the 18th century Sandha Sahib and Mohammed Ali fought for the title of Nawab in which the Britishers entered the feudal in the name of favouring Mohammed Ali. The Britishers entered Arcot and driven away Sandha Sahib who is the enemy of Mohammed Ali. The army was headed by Robert Clive. This initial success of Robert Clive led them spread the colonial rule all over India later. The building was constructed to celebrate the success of Robert Clive, hence it is called as Delhi Gate. The entrance of Delhi Gate is constructed with two storeys, one as the ground floor and the other as the first floor. The ground floor was constructed to serve as place to secure armory. The first floor was designed to shelter the warriors from where they can view the enemies and attach them using the fixed tankers in the first floor. With 4 feet high, the building was constructed with strong bricks and stucco is praiseworthy

The paintings of Pallava period – Armamalai

The paintings of Pallava period, could be located in Melmalaiyampattu village of Vaniyambadi Taluk in Vellore District can be viewed in the small hills of that area. The paintings of Jain statues were seen on the top of the naturally found cave structures. These artifacts were destroyed over a period of time. The residues of the paintings alone are available currently. Dr. Nagasamy gives a detailed view of those monumental paintings in his noted named “Oviya Paavai”. Yet the remains of the paintings of 7 & 8th century alone could be seen now. The restored and edifice of the Jain construction would be viewed right under the cave paintings. A few Paleolithic monuments are found near this place along with the black and red pot & tiles in the nearby ash mound.

The Status of Seven Mothers – Perunkanchi

The statues of Seven Mothers are one among the monuments being preserved by the archeological department. The monument is located in the east of Perunkanchi, a way from Walajah to Sholinghur. The statues sculptured here belongs to the Pallava Kings of 8th century. These statues serve as the best example fiction of the Pallava’s art of sculpture. The Seven mothers are:- Braami Maheswari Gowmari Vaishnavi Varahi Indirani Samundi The statues of Vinyagar and Veerabathirar located here is even more noteworthy.

King of Kandi’s Cemetery

The King who at the last reigned Sri Lanka – a Tamil King named Vikrama Raja Singha’s cemetery is now being called as the cemetery of Kind Kandi. The monument can be located travelling around 150 meters West from the new bus stand of Vellore. The monument is currently being addressed as “Muthu Mandapam” by the people. Kandi of Sri Lanka was reigned by King ‘Rajadi Rajan’. As he was not bestowed with progeny to reign the rule, his brother-in-law named Kannusamy, reigned the thrown in the name of Vikrama Raja Singha. The King fought against the Britishers took the upper hands . Thereby, the King left the palace with his family. But the Britishers arrested him and prisoned in Vellore by banishing him and his family from the country to avoid the favour by the public to the King. He was imprisoned in Vellore from 08.03.1816. After 16 years of imprisonment, Vikrama Raja Singha died on 31.08.1832. His body was buried near banks of Palar. His kith and kin were buried near him.

The Cemetery of Kanja Sahib, Sholingar

This Monument is located near a prominent road, opposite to Sholingar bus stand of Walajah Taluk. This monument with a width of 15 feet and length of 35 feet is called as Kanja Sahib cemetery. This cemetery is being preserved as one of the monuments by the Archaeological department. This is constructed with stucco and bricks. A battle was held in 1781 against the Britisher by the warriors of Tippu Sultan in which the warrior died against in the field of Sholingar. It is believed that a big pit was dug and the dead bodies of the soldiers were buried in the pit. To verify this incident, it is engraved at the top of the yard. The inscription goes as follows:- This tomb which is belived to mark the spot where the bodies of the Slain of the Mysore Army were intepred is conserved by the Government of India to commemorate the Battle of Sholinghur 1781.