Looking for a refreshing getaway from the historical city of Vellore? You’re in luck. Nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu, Vellore is not just a destination in itself—it’s also a convenient starting point for exploring some of the best cities in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala.
In this guide, we explore the top nearby cities from Vellore, why they’re worth visiting, and exactly how to reach them by train, road, or air.
Why Vellore is Perfect for Travel Escapes
Vellore’s strategic location and excellent connectivity make it ideal for spontaneous weekend getaways or well-planned long trips. With Katpadi Junction serving as a major railway hub and NH highways connecting Vellore to other states, travel is both easy and affordable.
Top Cities Near Vellore (From Other States)
1. Bangalore, Karnataka – The Garden City
Distance from Vellore: ~215 km
Ideal for: Weekend city life, parks, cafes, shopping
Bangalore, India’s tech capital, is much more than office parks and IT hubs. It’s a vibrant blend of modernity and nature. Spend your mornings walking through the lush Lalbagh Botanical Garden, and your evenings sipping coffee at an artsy café in Koramangala. From rooftop breweries to buzzing street markets, Bangalore’s energy is infectious.
Top Attractions:
- Lalbagh Botanical Garden
- Cubbon Park
- Nandi Hills
- UB City Mall & nightlife
How to Reach:
- Trains from Katpadi:
- KSR Bengaluru Express (16021)
- Yeshvantpur Express (16527)
- Intercity Express (12607)
- Travel Time: 4–5 hours
- By Road: Drive via NH 48 or take KSRTC buses
2. Mysore, Karnataka – Royal Heritage and Charm
Distance from Vellore: ~346 km
Ideal for: Palaces, museums, heritage, local sweets
Enter Mysore, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The grandeur of the Mysore Palace, the devotion at Chamundi Hills, and the sweet aroma of Mysore Pak in local shops give this city an old-world charm that’s impossible to resist. Known for its clean streets, rich culture, and yoga retreats, Mysore is perfect for a soulful escape.
Top Attractions:
- Mysore Palace
- Brindavan Gardens
- Chamundi Hills
- St. Philomena’s Church
How to Reach:
- Train Route: Katpadi → Bangalore → Mysore
- Bus: KSRTC from Bangalore to Mysore
- By Road: Drive from Vellore via NH 44 and NH 275 (~7 hrs)
3. Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh – Historical Trail
Distance from Vellore: ~360 km
Ideal for: Architecture, temples, offbeat exploration
For those who love less-crowded, historical spots, Anantapur is a hidden gem. The town offers a mix of old temples, forts, and quiet rural charm. Lepakshi Temple, with its gravity-defying hanging pillar, is a must-see architectural wonder. Penukonda Fort takes you on a journey through ancient dynasties and forgotten battles.
Top Attractions:
- Lepakshi Temple
- Penukonda Fort
- ISKCON Temple
 How to Reach:
- Trains from Katpadi:
- Mumbai CSMT Express (16340)
- kacheguda Weekly super fast (22716)
- Travel Time: ~6–7 hours
- By Road: NH 44; APSRTC buses and private cabs available
4. Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala – Coastal Culture & Cuisine
Distance from Vellore: ~573 km
Ideal for: Beach vibes, Kerala cuisine, spice markets
Formerly known as Calicut, this charming city on the Malabar Coast is a haven for foodies and culture lovers. Enjoy sunsets at Kozhikode Beach, explore the bustling spice markets, and don’t miss a plate of Malabar biryani. Rich in colonial history and surrounded by backwaters, Kozhikode is Kerala at its most authentic.
Top Attractions:
- Kozhikode Beach & Lighthouse
- Kappad Beach
- SM Street (Mittai Theruvu)
- Beypore Port
How to Reach:
- Direct Trains from Katpadi:
- Mangalore Express (12685)
- Ernakulam Express (12677)
- West Coast Express (22637)
- Travel Time: 10–11 hrs (overnight)
- By Road: NH 544 & NH 766 (long but scenic)
Best Time to Travel from Vellore
| Season | Suggested Destinations | Why Visit |
| Winter (Nov-Feb) | All Cities | Cool and Pleasant Wheather |
| Monsoon(Jun-Sep) | Kozhikode, Mysuru | Scenic Beauty, Fewer Crowds |
| Summer (Mar-May) | Bangalore , Mysuru | Comfortable climate, cultural events |
How to Reach These Cities from Vellore
By Train
- Katpadi Junction (KPD) is your gateway
- Direct and connecting trains available to Bangalore, Anantapur, and Kozhikode
- Mysore accessible via Bangalore connection
By Road
- Drive on NH 44, NH 48, NH 544 & NH 766
- Government and private buses available across all major routes
- Self-drive or hire cabs for flexible itineraries
By Air
- Nearest airports: Bengaluru International Airport & Calicut International Airport
- Flights can save time for longer trips
- Combine with local cab/train travel
Travel Tips
- Plan ahead: Especially for long weekends and holidays
- Pack light: Trains and road trips are easier with minimal luggage
- Use travel apps: IRCTC, Redbus, MakeMyTrip for easy bookings
- Stay hydrated: South Indian summers can be intense
- Try local cuisine: Don’t miss Kozhikode’s biryani, Mysore’s dosa, or Bangalore’s street food
Final Thoughts
From the royal streets of Mysore to the coastal flavors of Kozhikode, and from the buzz of Bangalore to the heritage trails of Anantapur, these travel escapes from Vellore offer something for every kind of traveler.
So whether you’re planning a quick weekend away or an extended journey into South India’s rich landscape, Vellore is the perfect place to begin.
