Karikili Bird Sanctuary is an incredible nature preserve situated on the banks of the Palar River. The sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds, including migratory birds from as far away as Australia and Siberia. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride along the river and marvel at the sheer variety of birds that it attracts. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find that the bird sanctuary is a birding hotspot, and they will be able to spot birds like the Little Cormorant, White-throated Kingfisher, and Purple Heron. The Karikili Bird Sanctuary is an ideal place to recharge and connect with nature's beauty.
Vellore Fort is a sixteenth-century fort that has to withstand several invasions. In addition, visitors can also witness a light and sound show to learn about the fort's history. This historical destination tells stories from India's history, including the Dravidian, Vijayanagara, Carnatic empires, and the British Raj. Afterward, visitors can then head to the Amirthi Zoological Park, where they can encounter various exotic animal species such as leopards, spotted deer, and mongoose. The park has beautiful cascading waterfalls that visitors will find breathtaking. The high point of this visit is the trek to the nearby caves and the Amirthi river.
If you have more time, head to the Nagalapuram Hill Station, located around 60 kilometers northwest of Ranipet. The hill station is ideal for trekking and offers breathtaking views from the summit. Also, if you're looking to add more historical flavor to your itinerary, the Jalakandeswarar Temple in Vellore is an iconic ancient temple with exquisite architecture. Ensure that you have plenty of water and snacks for the trips, and wear comfortable lightweight clothing.