MileHacker Logo
Vellore Travel Resources

Vellore Travel Resources

Vellore Tamil Nadu, India Travel Guide

Essential Apps & Online Planning

Apps for Your Visit

  • Google Maps:

    Download offline maps for navigation even without internet access.

  • Ola:

    Reserve local transportation, including auto-rickshaws and cabs.

  • Google Translate:

    Download the offline Tamil language pack for communication.

  • MakeMyTrip/Goibibo:

    Book domestic flights, trains, buses, and hotels within India.

  • WhatsApp:

    The common communication app in India, useful for tour operators and hotels.

Useful Websites for Further Planning

  • Tamil Nadu Tourism:

    Find official information on attractions, events, and travel in the state.

  • Indian Railways (IRCTC):

    Access official train ticket bookings and schedules at irctc.co.in.

  • Indian e-Visa:

    The official portal for e-Visa applications at indianvisaonline.gov.in.

  • Christian Medical College Vellore:

    Find information related to the hospital at cmcvellore.ac.in.

  • Social Media:

    Follow official Tamil Nadu Tourism accounts for updates.

Recommended Guidebooks

Lp India or Rough Guide to India include Vellore/Tamil Nadu sections.

Local Maps

Find city find maps at bookstalls or hotels for navigating streets.

Local Publications

English newspapers like 'The Hindu' provide current events.

Emergency & Safety Information

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

  • Police: 100
  • Ambulance: 108
  • Fire: 101
  • Have your travel insurance emergency contact number ready. World Nomads provides coverage.

Critical Information & Procedures

  • Christian Medical College (CMC) Hospital is a premier institution.
  • Contact your country''s diplomatic mission in New Delhi or Chennai.
  • Report lost documents to local police for a First Information Report (FIR).
  • Follow local authorities' instructions during natural disaster warnings.

Further Reading & Cultural Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries on South Indian history or specific temples.
  • Visual content deepens historical and cultural context.
  • Explore travel vlogs focused on Tamil Nadu.
  • These resources provide distinctive viewpoints.

Music & Art

  • Listen to Carnatic music, a classical South Indian tradition.
  • Explore Bharatanatyam, the classical South Indian dance form.
  • Go to local art galleries if available.
  • Engage with performing arts schedules.

Online Communities & Language

  • Travelfish, India Mike, or Reddit's r/IndiaTravel share insights.
  • City-specific subreddits often provide local advice.
  • Use Duolingo for basic Tamil phrases.
  • YouTube tutorials offer quick language lessons.

Safety, Health & Cultural Immersion

Health & Emergency Preparedness

Health Precautions

  • Carry necessary personal medications.
  • Stay hydrated to manage the climate.
  • Protect yourself from exposure to the sun.
  • Maintain hand hygiene regularly.

General Safety Guidelines

  • Secure your valuables.
  • Research neighborhoods before wandering.
  • Use only licensed transportation.
  • Avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Immediately file a police report (FIR) for lost items.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate for passport replacement.
  • Keep copies of important documents separate.
  • Notify credit card companies for lost cards.

Cultural Insights & Practices

Temple Etiquette

  • Remove shoes before entering temples.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Ask for permission before taking pictures inside.

Dining Etiquette

  • Use your right hand for eating.
  • Often, eating with hands is customary.
  • Inquire about preferred practices in fine dining settings.

Practical Travel Details

Currency and Tipping

  • Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency.
  • ATMs are widely available for cash needs.
  • Tipping is customary for services in hotels and restaurants.

Communication

  • A local SIM card simplifies communication.
  • Basic Tamil phrases will be appreciated.
  • Many locals in tourist areas understand English.

Local Exploration Guides

Local Transport Best Practices

  1. Negotiate auto-rickshaw fares before starting your journey.
  2. Opt for shared auto-rickshaws for budget travel.
  3. Use app-based cabs like Ola for fair pricing.
  4. Local buses are economical for city travel.
  5. Think about walking for short distances to absorb the surroundings.

Navigating Unofficial Rules

  1. Be patient with varying service speeds.
  2. Embrace the concept of "Indian Stretchable Time."
  3. Observe local behavior to understand social norms.
  4. Maintain a flexible attitude for unexpected changes.
  5. A positive disposition helps with any minor inconveniences.

Digital & Print Reinforcements

App Essentials

Ensure offline maps and translation apps are downloaded and ready.

Online Portals

Utilize official tourism and railway sites for reliable information.

Printed Guides

Carry a small local map or a manual for quick reference.

Critical Alert

Always stay aware of your surroundings and prioritize your personal safety, especially in unfamiliar areas or late at night.

Extended Digital & Print Resources

Comprehensive Planning Tools

Online Information Access

  • Reliable Internet:

    Look for cafes or hotels offering stable Wi-Fi connections.

  • Detailed Itineraries:

    Utilize travel blogs and forums for sample travel plans.

  • Cloud Storage:

    Backup important documents to a cloud service.

Communication Aids

  • Unlocked Phone:

    Acquire a local SIM card for affordable calls and data.

  • Messaging Apps:

    WhatsApp is the standard for local and international contact.

  • Translation Devices:

    Consider a portable translator for instant language support.

Local Information & Support

Official Tourism Sites

Access state-level official tourism portals for comprehensive details.

Tamil Nadu Tourism

Cultural & Historical Insights

Investigate particular portals for Vellore Fort and other heritage sites.

CMC Vellore

Local News & Events

Stay updated through reputable Indian news outlets for area happenings.

Language & Artistry

Language Learning Aids

  • Language apps like Duolingo offer introductory Tamil lessons.
  • Online video tutorials assist with common phrases and pronunciation.
  • Phrasebooks provide quick reference for interactions.
  • Practice speaking basic greetings for genuine connections.

Music & Art Appreciation

  • Explore Carnatic music through online streams and local performances.
  • Watch Bharatanatyam performances for a visual cultural experience.
  • Seek out local artisans showing traditional crafts.
  • Museums often provide context for regional art forms.

Safety Net & Support

Medical Facility Information

  • Christian Medical College Hospital is a major healthcare provider.
  • Note down the address and main contact numbers before travel.
  • Other private hospitals, like Apollo and Sri Narayani, also operate.
  • Always have your travel insurance details accessible.

Diplomatic Missions & Natural Disasters

  • Keep contact details for your country's embassy in New Delhi.
  • The Consulate General in Chennai is the closest significant city consulate.
  • During cyclonic weather, stay indoors and monitor local news.
  • Stay informed through local news for information on natural hazards.
← Previous
Vellore Travel Hacks
← Back to Vellore
Next →
Vellore Travel Checklist

Next Up: Vellore Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Vellore Travel Checklist