Ambur Tamil Nadu: Best Places, Food To Try, Leather to Buy, and Everything Essential

Ambur is a small yet quite vibrant town in the Tirupattur district of Tamil Nadu, known for its world-famous Ambur Biryani, a developed leather industry, and a rich history. 

Whether you are a biryani lover or just want to explore authentic South Indian traditions, Ambur city is perfect for achieving a unique travel experience. If you are on a spree to explore Indian states, definitely keep Ambur on your list.

This guide will explore the history, location, things to do, places to visit, best hotels, and travel tips for the Ambur district. 

History and Culture of Ambur 

Ambur’s history goes back to the medieval period. The town gained popularity and prominence during the rule of the Nawabs of Arcot and also played a crucial role in the Carnatic War. 

Today, the architecture of Ambur reflects a blend of Islamic and Tamil cultures through its craftsmanship, festivals, and cuisine. The town of Ambur, famous for its traditional biryani and leather supremacy, is worth exploring if you want to experience traditional India. 

Where is Ambur Located?

Ambur is located in the Tirupattur district of Tamil Nadu. It was previously part of the Vellore district, and it became a separate district in 2019.

The Ambur location lies on National Highway 44, about 180 km from Chennai and 145 km from Bengaluru. The distance from Ambur to Tirupattur is approximately 25 km, so travelling between the two towns is quite easy. 

The town of Ambur is governed by the Ambur Municipality, which manages the town’s infrastructure and public services.

How to Reach Ambur? 

Reaching Ambur is straightforward, as it is accessible through all major modes of transport. Here is how to reach Ambur:

• By Air

  The nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. It is just 160 km away. From the airport, you can reach Ambur by taxi, private car, or by taking a bus or local train. 

  Another option is Chennai International Airport, about 190 km from Ambur, which is also well connected to all modes of transport.

• By Train

  Ambur Railway Station is situated on the Chennai-Bengaluru railway route, making it highly accessible by train. The station is also connected by many express and passenger trains from all major cities such as Chennai, Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Salem, Jolarpettai, and Katpadi.

• By Road

  Ambur has commendable road connectivity through National Highway 44 (NH-44), one of the longest highways in India. The town is well connected to all highways, such as Chennai, Bengaluru, Vellore, Tirupattur, Krishnagiri, and Hosur. 

  Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) and Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and several private bus operators run buses daily to and from Ambur. 

Best Time to Visit Ambur

The best time to visit Ambut is between October and March. This is when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. 

The comfortable weather makes it smoother for visitors to explore nearby attractions, shop in open markets, and enjoy the local cuisine. 

Though Ambur can also be visited in summer (April to June), these are the hottest months. The monsoon (July to September) is also an ideal time, as the rainfall is moderate and the atmosphere is pleasing.  

Top Tourist Places to Visit in Ambur 

Not only the tastiest biryani and a thriving leather industry, but Ambur also offers various attractive tourist destinations that are worth exploring while you are in town. 

Here are some top places to visit in Ambur if you want to witness cultural heritage, religious significance, and scenic destinations.

1. Periya Anjaneya Temple 

   

   One of the most revered temples in Ambur is the Periya Anjaneya Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and known for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance. This is one of the most popular Hanuman temples in India. 

   Devotees from near and far come to visit throughout the year, mainly on Saturdays of Hanuman Jayanti, when special prayers and celebrations are arranged by the temple authorities. 

2. Masjid-e-Azam

   

   Masjid-e-Azam is one of the oldest and most prominent mosques in Ambur, reflecting the town’s rich Islamic heritage. It is known for its elegant architecture and serene surroundings; the mosque serves as an important place of worship and community gathering. The place is preferred by visitors for the historical significance and cultural value it represents.

3. Yelagiri Hills

   

   Located about 40 km from Ambur, Yelagiri Hills is a famous hill station and one of the most visited weekend getaways in the region. It is surrounded by beautiful, lush greenery, orchids, and pleasant weather. It also offers activities like trekking, boating at Punganoor Lake, nature walks, and paragliding. The hills are the best destination for families, adventure lovers, or nature enthusiasts. 

4. Jalagamparai Waterfalls 

   

   Jalagamparai Waterfalls are situated near Yelagiri Hills. It is a beautiful attraction surrounded by rocky terrain and dense vegetation. The waterfall is at its most spectacular during the monsoon season, as every water body is. Even after the monsoon, it makes a perfect picnic spot for visitors. 

5. Vellore Fort 

   

   This fort is located about 50 km from Ambur. Vellore Fort is one of the best examples of 16th-century military architecture in South India. Built by the rulers of Vijayanagara. The fort is known for its huge granite walls, broad moat, and impressive construction. And, within the complex, visitors can also visit the Jalakandeswarar Temple, a museum, and numerous heritage sites that represent the rich history of the region. 

Famous Ambur Biryani: Why Is It Special

Ambur Biryani is the signature dish of Ambur and one of the most popular dishes of Tamil Nadu overall. It originated during the time of the Arcot Nawabs and is loved for its unique flavor and traditional cooking style.

It is not prepared in the conventional manner in which the other biryanis are made. The chicken or mutton is cooked with some aromatic spices and fresh ingredients and then slow-cooked using the dum method for a rich and flavorful taste. 

Tip: Some of the best biryani shops in Ambur include:

• Star Biryani
• Rahmaniya Biryani
• Ambur Biryani Centre

The Ambur biryani is then served with brinjal curry or onion raita, making it a complete and delicious meal. If you haven’t tried the biryani while you are in Ambur, you are missing something iconic. 

Leather Supremacy in Ambur and How It Started

Ambur is also known as the “Leather City of South India.” The leather industry here started growing and thriving during the British colonial period. This was the time when demand for tanned leather touched heights for the sake of military boots and other related goods. 

As the town is located near the Palar River, there was and is an abundance of water for tanning, and being linked to Chennai made transporting leather easier and helped industry flourish.

Even today, the leather industry of Ambur is driven by skilled craftsmanship, modern manufacturing techniques, and expertise handed down from generation to generation. 

Best Things to Do in Ambur

A trip to Ambur is incomplete if you have not tried the below-listed things during your stay. From tasting local food to shopping for local leather to exploring scenic views, there is plenty to enjoy. 

Keep the list handy to make the most of your visit to Ambur.

1. Taste Authentic Ambur Biryani

   To complete your trip to Ambur, you can’t afford to miss the world-famous biryani. It is prepared with seeraha samba rice and unique spices. It is served in most of the traditional restaurants that have preserved the authentic recipe for generations.

2. Shop for Leather Goods

   Being one of India’s leading leather manufacturing hubs, it is the perfect place to shop for high-quality leather goods such as shoes, bags, wallets, belts, jackets, or other accessories at reasonable prices.

3. Visit Temples and Mosques

   Ambur can be counted as one of the popular places offering different spiritual sites such as Periya Anjaneya Temple and Masjid-e-Azam. Both are places of worship and reflect the town’s rich cultural diversity and heritage.

4. Explore Nearby Yelagiri Hills

   After exploring Yelagiri Hills, check out the nearby areas. There are numerous scenic views with a pleasant climate, trekking trails, boating, and beautiful viewpoints. It is an ideal destination for a day trip to Ambur.

5. Enjoy Local Street Food and Sweets

   Besides biryani, there are other local favorites such as kebabs, parottas, and traditional South Indian snacks. Make sure to try all the delicious sweets and desserts available at the local food joints, sweet shops, and bakeries.

6. Check Local Markets 

   Ambur has bustling markets to check out and experience the vibrant culture. Browse the leather shops, textiles, fresh produce, and local handicrafts. This will let you enjoy the lively atmosphere and interact with locals.

Popular Food and Restaurants in Ambur 

Not only biryani, but Ambur also offers various other South Indian and Mughlai dishes such as kebabs, parotta, chicken curry, mutton sukka, and desserts like firni. 

Here are the best places to try food in Ambur. 

1. Ambur Star Biryani Since 1890 (Old Shop)

   

   One of the oldest and most renowned places to try biryani in Ambur. It has been offering biryani for over a century. The traditional cooking techniques are still preserved by this place, and thus a must-visit for food lovers.

2. SK7 Star Ambur Biryani

   

   Another popular restaurant to try food in Ambur is SK7 Star. It offers chicken and mutton biryani, along with raitas. It is known for its quick service, heavy portions, and a wide range of non-vegetarian dishes.

3. Rahamaniya Biryani Hotel

   

   The next place to try biryani in Ambur is Rahamaniya Biryani Hotel, which offers perfectly prepared biryani along with other dishes like kebabs, curries, and other Mughlai cuisine. The place has had its own loyal customer base for ages.

4. Ambur Salam Restaurant Since 1863

   

   Being in the market since 1863, the legacy goes back more than 150 years. Ambur Salam Restaurant offers a time-tested biryani recipe rich in flavor. It also provides warm hospitality and is thus praised by most of the visitors.

5. Zaitoon Restaurant, Ambur

   

   Zaitoon Restaurant provides a wide selection of dishes, including biryani, grilled chicken, kebabs, tandoori dishes, and South Indian meals. It provides quite spacious seating and a family-friendly atmosphere, which is just best for casual dining or group meals. 

Where to Stay in Ambur

Ambur offers a wide range of budget and mid-range hotels to stay in during your visit. For comfortable accommodation in Ambur, here are a few ideal options to pick from. Most of these places are located near the airport, railway station, bus stand, or Mumbai-Chennai highway. 

• Hotel Royal Regency 

  

  Hotel Royal Regency is another popular option for travelers needing a comfortable stay with modern amenities. It offers very well-furnished rooms, in-house dining, and accessibility to the town.

• Hotel Khanna Fiesta 

  

  This hotel is known for the cleanliness it offers, along with spacious rooms and essential facilities. There is everything available that is required to make your accommodation comfortable. Thus, it is preferred by most of the tourists visiting Ambur for short or long periods.

• Hotel Grand Meridian 

  

  Hotel Grand Meridian offers a luxurious experience with spacious rooms and essential amenities. It is great for quiet at a convenient location, thus perfect for exploring the beauty of Ambur during your trip.

Other Premium Option

There are other luxury hotels located near Vellore or Yellagiri Hills. Both these places are within driving distance of Ambur. These spots are loaded with premium hotels and resorts with high-class amenities, scenic surroundings, and optimum dining options. 

Travel Tips for the Best Ambur Trip

To make your trip enjoyable and safe, below are some of the useful travel tips. Keep these things in mind, and have fun and be safe at the same time.

1. The best time to visit Ambur is from October to March. This is when the weather is cooler and comfortable for sightseeing, shopping, and exploring nearby attractions like Yelagiri Hills.
2. Although most places like hotels and shops accept digital payments, it is advised to carry some cash around. Sometimes local markets, street food vendors, or small family-run stores. 
3. To get the best, freshest, and most authentic experience, try to have the biryani at lunch. This is the time when it is prepared in large batches and served at its best.
4. There are temples and mosques around; hence, it is suggested to wear comfortable and modest clothing. Also, there are a few hills to climb; make sure your shoes are lightweight and suitable for long walks.
5. Ambur is great for purchasing local leather goods, such as bags, shoes, belts, and wallets. To buy the genuine goods, purchase the leather items from the reputed stores and authorized outlets.
6. If you have enough time to spend, try exploring nearby destinations such as Yelagiri Hills and Vellore Fort. They are within easy driving distance and let you explore nature, history, and adventure. 

Conclusion 

Ambur, Tamil Nadu, is a history-rich, scenic, and vibrant travel destination that offers everything required to make a trip memorable. From paying respects at temples and mosques, eating authentic Mughlai biryani, and checking out a thriving leather industry, Ambur, the city, promises a unique experience with warm hospitality and cultural charm.