Temples in Vellore
Vellore's temples cover almost five centuries. The Jalakandeswarar Temple, inside Vellore Fort, dates from the 16th century and is known for its carved stone pillars. The Sripuram Golden Temple, just outside the city, was consecrated in 2007 and is covered in gold.
Both are active places of worship with their own rules. Sripuram in particular has a strict dress code and does not allow phones or cameras inside, so read the tips below before you go.
Famous Temples in Vellore
Jalakandeswarar Temple stands inside Vellore Fort and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built in the mid-16th century by a Vijayanagara chieftain, and its kalyana mandapa (wedding hall) is famous for pillars carved with horse riders and yalis. Regular worship stopped for centuries while the fort was used by armies, and resumed only in the early 1980s.
Sripuram Golden Temple, also called the Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, is at Thirumalaikodi, about 10 km south of Vellore. The shrine is covered in gold foil and sits at the centre of a star-shaped path of about 1.8 km through gardens. It is especially busy in the evening, when the temple is lit up.
Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple is a hilltop Murugan temple a short drive from Vellore. You can climb the steps or take the road that runs close to the top.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Vellore
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- At Sripuram, shorts, short skirts and sleeveless tops are not allowed.
- Deposit your phone and camera at the counters before entering Sripuram.
- Wear shoes that are easy to remove, and visit early, as stone floors get very hot.
- Allow two hours or more at Sripuram, longer on weekends and festival days.
- Follow the photography rules at each temple and respect people who are praying.
- Carry water, especially from March to June.
Questions
Vellore — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Vellore?
The best-known temples are the Jalakandeswarar Temple inside Vellore Fort and the Sripuram Golden Temple just outside the city. The Ratnagiri Balamurugan Temple on a nearby hill is also popular.
Can I take my phone into the Sripuram Golden Temple?
No. Phones, cameras and other electronic items are not allowed inside. You deposit them at the counters near the entrance and collect them when you leave.
Can non-Hindus visit the Sripuram Golden Temple?
Yes. The temple says visitors of all faiths are welcome, as long as they follow the dress code and the rules on phones and cameras.
Why is there a temple inside Vellore Fort?
Jalakandeswarar Temple was built in the 16th century, around the same time as the fort, by the Vijayanagara chieftains who ruled Vellore. It later went without regular worship for centuries, and worship resumed in the early 1980s.