Arcot, also known as Ārkāḍu in its original tongue, is an urban area and town located in the Ranipet district of Tamil Nadu, India. Situated on the southern shores of the Palar River, the city lies between the Javadi Hills (Javvadhu malai) and the Mysore Ghat, on a trade route that connects Chennai and Bangalore or Salem. Along with the nearby municipalities of Walajapet and Ranipet, it is a Tri-City.

In addition to typical rice-based dishes like Arcot biryani, the area is known for its sweet makkan peda.