Location: Located 30
Km from Bhubaneswar, Orrisa.
Tourist Attractions: Stone Revetment of Cuttack,
Barabati Fort, Temple of Cuttack Chandi, Quadam-i-Rasool, Dhavaleshwar,
Paramhansnath Temple.
Best Buys: Famous silver filigree works, horn products,
applique works.
Best Hangouts: Go out for fishing and boating in Ansupa
lake, 70 Km from Cuttack.
Best Activities: Take a boat ride to 'Naraj', through
river Mahanadi, only 5 Km away from Cuttack and enjoy this picturesque
picnic spot.
Festivals: Bali Jatra(Nov.-Dec.), Durga Puja(Sep.-Oct.)
Nearest Tourist Destinations: Bhubaneswar, Konark, Puri.
When to Visit: Whole year except July and August (due to
heavy rainfalls)
About Cuttack
Orissa's commercial capital, Cuttack, has a lot to offer to its tourists as
well. One of the oldest towns and the former capital of
Orrisa
is situated 30 Km from Bhubanewar. Cuttack was founded by Nripati Keshari in
10th century. It then went into hands of Mughals, Afghans and Marathas
before coming under the rule of British Empire, who made it the capital of
Orrisa. It was in 1956, when the capital got shifted to Bhubaneswar.
Cuttack is almost an island, situated at the head of the Mahanadi delta and
surrounded by Mahanadi river and its collateral, the Kathjuri. Due to its
historical importance and the recent commercialization, Cuttack has emerged
as a favoured tourist destination. It is a shoppers' paradise with most of
the Orissan handicraft items on sale on the streets of Cuttack
Major Tourist Attractions in Cuttack
The Stone Revetments
The Stone Revetment, situated on the banks of river Mahanadi, is a fabulous
piece of engineering works. One can only feel the height of engineering
developments of Orissa during the 11th century. Constructed by the Keshari
kings, this fantastic architecture design should not be missed.
Barabati Fort
On the banks of river Mahanadi can be seen the ruins of the Barabati fort.
The fort was built in around 11th century and was reconstructed in 14th
century. There is a moat around the fort which had crocodiles and water
during its golden days. The fort's interiors have been changed to a modern
stadium, but the old charm is still in the aura. Very close to the fort is a
beautiful ancient temple of Goddess Katak Chandi, the presiding deity of the
city.
Qadam-I-Rasool
The Qadam-i-Rasool Mosque has a peculiar element, that it is equally sacred
for both, the Hindu and Muslim community. It was constructed by a Hindu
ruler for the Muslim community in his regime during 18th century AD. There
are three mosques within. The central one contains a stone with the
footprints of Prophet Mohammed.
Dhavaleshwar
A small but lovely island in the River Mahanadi at around 37 kms from
Cuttack. It has a Lord Shiva Temple on a small hill-top. The island is
naturally very rich and is a pleasure to the eyes of a visitor.
Getting there
Air: The nearest airport to Cuttack is the Bhubaneswar airport, 30
Km distant.
Rail: Cuttack is an important station and is well connected to
Kolkata, Chennai, New Delhi, and Mumbai through regular trains.
Road: Cuttack is well connected with Bhubaneshwar, Konark, Puri,
Kolkata and rest of India by road.
Accommodation
Cuttack offers ample accommodation options. In terms of hotels one can
choose from government approved and various other private hotels in Cuttack.
A range of budget and star hotels, guest houses, lodges are available in
Cuttack.
