At a distance of 70 Kms from Kanchipuram and 138 Kms from Chennai (3 kms from new Vellore Central Bus Station), Vellore Fort is the 16th century granite fort surrounded by a deep moat is set in the heart of the town. It was built by Bommi and Thimma Reddy in the 16th century during the reign of the Vijayanagar king Krishnadeva Raya. The fort was captured in the 17th century by the Adi Shahis, the Muslim rulers from Bijapur. It was then taken by the Marathas, and later taken by Daud Khan of Delhi in the early 18th century. The British took control of this fort in 1768 and controlled it until Independence. After the British killed Tipu Sultan they imprisoned his son and daughter in this fort. The fort is an excellent example of military architecture and has withstood several attacks.

There is a big moat around the fort that is still filled with water. At one time it was full of crocodiles. The museum with in the fort showcases objects of historic value, recovered from the region.