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.
