Ambur is a small town in the Vellore district of Tamilnadu, India. It is located on the banks of the Palar river, about 180 km from Chennai and 100 km from Bangalore. Ambur is known for two things: its leather industry and its biryani. But there is more to this town than meets the eye. Ambur has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a variety of attractions that make it an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore the lesser-known gems of Tamilnadu. In this article, we will take you on a tour of Ambur, and show you why you should visit this town of leather and biryani.
Ambur Tourism
Ambur may not be as famous as some of the other tourist places in Tamilnadu, but it has its own charm and appeal. Ambur is a town that has witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties, such as the Pallavas, the Cholas, the Vijayanagara Empire, the Nawabs of Arcot, the British, and the Mysore Kingdom. As a result, Ambur has a rich and diverse heritage that is reflected in its monuments, temples, forts, and mosques. Some of the major attractions in Ambur are:
Ambur Fort: This is the most prominent landmark of Ambur, and a testimony to its glorious past. The fort was built by the Nawabs of Arcot in the 17th century, and later occupied by Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, and the British. The fort has a massive gate, a moat, a palace, a mosque, and a prison. The fort is also known for its role in the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, when it was besieged by the Indian soldiers who rebelled against the British. The fort is now a protected monument, and a must-visit for history buffs.
Ambur Lake: This is a scenic and serene lake that is located near the Ambur Fort. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, and offers a relaxing and refreshing experience for visitors. The lake is also a popular spot for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The lake is home to many migratory birds, such as pelicans, storks, herons, and egrets. The lake is also a venue for the annual Ambur Trade Fair, which is held in January, and attracts thousands of people from nearby towns and villages.
Vellore Fort: This is another historical attraction that is located about 25 km from Ambur. The Vellore Fort is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in South India, and a marvel of military architecture. The fort was built by the Vijayanagara kings in the 16th century, and later controlled by the Nayaks, the Marathas, the Nawabs of Arcot, and the British. The fort has a massive granite wall, a moat, a temple, a mosque, a church, and a museum. The fort is also famous for the Vellore Mutiny of 1806, which was the first major revolt against the British rule in India.
Jalakandeswarar Temple: This is a beautiful and ancient temple that is located inside the Vellore Fort. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is known for its exquisite carvings, sculptures, and paintings. The temple was built by the Vijayanagara kings in the 15th century, and later renovated by the Nayaks and the Nawabs of Arcot. The temple has a towering gopuram, a mandapam, a sanctum, and a sub-shrine. The temple is also famous for its musical pillars, which produce different sounds when tapped.
Ambur Leather Industry
Ambur is not only a town of history and culture, but also a town of industry and commerce. Ambur is the leather capital of India, and one of the largest exporters of leather and leather products in the world. Ambur has a long and illustrious tradition of leather making, dating back to the 19th century, when it was a hub of tanning and shoe making. Today, Ambur has more than 700 leather units, employing over 100,000 people, and producing a wide range of leather products, such as shoes, bags, belts, wallets, jackets, and accessories. Ambur leather is known for its quality, durability, and variety, and is exported to many countries, such as the USA, the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Japan. Some of the famous brands that source their leather from Ambur are Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Puma, and Bata. Ambur leather industry is not only a source of income and employment for the town, but also a source of pride and identity for the people.
Ambur Biryani
Ambur is not only a town of leather and industry, but also a town of cuisine and gastronomy. Ambur is famous for its biryani, which is a rice dish cooked with meat, spices, and herbs. Ambur biryani is different from other types of biryani in India, as it uses a special variety of rice called seeraga samba, which is small and fragrant, and absorbs the flavors of the meat and spices. Ambur biryani is also cooked in a large vessel called a dhum, which is sealed with dough, and placed over a charcoal fire. This ensures that the biryani is cooked slowly and evenly, and retains its moisture and aroma. Ambur biryani is usually served with a spicy gravy called brinjal curry, and a yogurt-based salad called raita. Ambur biryani is a delicacy that is enjoyed by people of all religions, castes, and classes, and is a symbol of the town’s harmony and diversity.
Ambur Hotels
Ambur is a town that caters to the needs and preferences of different travelers, and offers a range of hotels to suit their budgets and tastes. Ambur has some of the best hotels in the region, that provide comfortable and luxurious accommodation, along with excellent facilities and services. Some of the best hotels in Ambur are:
Hotel Khanna Fiesta: This is a four-star hotel that is located near the Ambur bus stand, and offers spacious and elegant rooms, with amenities such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, minibar, and coffee maker. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, a coffee shop, a gym, a spa, and a banquet hall. The hotel is ideal for business and leisure travelers, and charges around Rs. 3000 per night.
Hotel Rangalaya Royal: This is a three-star hotel that is located near the Vellore Fort, and offers cozy and modern rooms, with amenities such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, and tea/coffee maker. The hotel also has a restaurant, a lounge, a conference hall, and a travel desk. The hotel is suitable for family and solo travelers, and charges around Rs. 2000 per night.
Hotel Sri Annamalaiyar Residency: This is a budget hotel that is located near the Ambur railway station, and offers clean and simple rooms, with amenities such as fan, TV, and attached bathroom. The hotel also has a restaurant, a parking area, and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel is perfect for backpackers and budget travelers, and charges around Rs. 500 per night.
Conclusion
Ambur is a town that has something for everyone, and is a hidden gem of Tamilnadu. Ambur is a town that has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a variety of attractions that make it an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore the lesser-known gems of Tamilnadu. Ambur is also a town that has a thriving leather industry, and a delicious biryani, that make it a town of leather and biryani. Ambur is a town that you should not miss, and a town that you will not forget.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Ambur today, and discover the town of leather and biryani.