Vellore is a historic city in northern Tamil Nadu, 140 km west of Chennai, known primarily for the magnificent Vellore Fort, one of the finest examples of military architecture in South India. Built by the Vijayanagara kings in the 16th century, the fort complex houses a temple, mosque, and church within its walls. The Sri Lakshmi Golden Temple at Sripuram, whose entire structure is covered in gold leaf, is a modern architectural marvel and major pilgrimage site. Yelagiri Hills nearby offer a cool escape for trekkers. Vellore is also home to the Christian Medical College, one of Asia's leading hospitals, giving the city an outsized national presence.