Cuttack
Introduction
You can explore Cuttack, a historic city that served as the former capital of the state of Odisha. Known as both the Millennium City and the Silver City, the area reflects a millennium of history and is renowned for its traditional silver filigree works. The name originates from the Odia and Sanskrit word Kataka, meaning "the fort," which refers to the ancient Barabati Fort where the city first developed.
As the judicial capital of Odisha, the city houses the Orissa High Court and various state government offices. You can experience a location that blends deep historical roots with its role as a modern administrative hub.
Before you go
Prepare yourself for a city with deep historical roots, where the name Cuttack originates from the Sanskrit word for army or troop. Established over a millennium ago as a military settlement, the area served as a vital trading hub at the junction of land routes connecting North and South India and water routes linking Odisha to Southeast Asia. You can find spiritual protection in the local lore, which attributes the city's survival against historical threats to the presence of Maa Kataka Chandi and Maa Gada Chandi.
Navigate the unique layout of Bawan Bazar Tepan Gali, a name signifying 52 markets and 53 lanes. While these narrow passages may give you the impression of an ancient site, they are central to the city's character. If you seek fresh air or a quiet evening, head toward the Bidanasi River Embankment or travel along Baimundi Marg, which serves as a protective embankment against the Mahanadi and Kathjodi rivers.
Getting there
You can reach the city by air via the nearby airport in Bhubaneswar, which offers domestic flights to major hubs like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, as well as international connections to Kuala Lumpur. For those traveling by rail, Cuttack Junction sits on the Kolkata–Chennai railway line, providing a direct route from both cities.
Alternatively, you can arrive by road at the Netaji Bus Terminus. This modern terminal connects you to various parts of Odisha and neighboring states, including West Bengal.
Getting around
You can navigate the city using a variety of local transport options, including hired cars, auto rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws which are readily available for your travels. For those traveling along specific routes, city buses provide coverage across parts of the area.
The bus route connects several key locations, including:
- College Square
- OMP
- Link Road
- Badambari Bus Stop
- Ring Road
- High Court
- Deulasahi
- Bidanasi
- CDA
Where to stay
You can find a wide variety of accommodations across different neighborhoods in Cuttack. In the College Square area, you have several options including Aurobinda Lodge, Cuttack Hotel, and Hotel Vijoy. If you prefer staying near the bustling Choudhury Bazar, you can choose from Hotel Adarsh, Hotel Gayatri, Hotel Maitry, Konark Lodge, or Shreeram Guest House.
Other neighborhoods offer distinct atmospheres for your stay:
- Dolamundai features several properties including Hotel Akabari Continental, Hotel Mahendra, Hotel Nilam, Hotel Sagar, Hotel Sagarshree, and Hotel Vaishali.
- The Badambadi area provides multiple choices such as Hotel Bishal, Hotel Monalisa, Hotel Roxy, Hotel Silver City, and Roxy Resorts.
- For those staying near the main roads, options include Hotel Bombay on Ice Factory Road, Hotel Manorama Plaza on Mahatab Road, Hotel Suryakiran on Cantonment Road, or Hotel Dwarika on Bajrakabati Road.
- Other locations to consider include Devlok Lodge in Madhupatna, Bikram Lodge and Mohan Lodge in Thoria Sahi, Hotel Jashmine in Sikharpur, and the Blue Lagoon Premium Hotel near Puri Ghat.
Food & drink
Savor the local flavors of Cuttack by sampling a spicy plate of dahi vada, Aludam ghuguni, and seu. You can find these popular roadside treats in several locations, including Bidanasi and Manglabag. For those seeking meat dishes, you can enjoy mutton, cham, and chicken chops at Professor Para.
Depending on your location, you can find different specialties throughout the city:
- Pav Bhaji near Gauri Shankar park
- Hot tea and coffee near cantonment road
What to see and do
Explore the historical layers of the city by visiting the Barabati Fort, a 13th-century structure that has been occupied and renovated by various rulers over the centuries. While only the eastern gate remains of its original great wall, you can explore the interior spaces which now host indoor sports complexes. Within the fort grounds, you can visit the Museum of Justice, housed in a colonial-era bungalow, to view courtroom models, historical legal apparel, and a gallery of Chief Justices. For a look into local history, visit the Netaji Birth Place Museum at Janakinath Bhavan, where you can see restored vintage carriages and galleries detailing the life of independence activist Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. You can also explore the Odisha State Maritime Museum, located in a former boat construction workshop, to view boat sheds, ship models, and an aquarium.
Experience the local culture through these sites and activities:
- Visit the Kataka Chandi Temple, dedicated to the presiding deity of Cuttack.
- Walk along the banks of the River Kathajodi to watch the sunset.
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Durga Puja and Kali Puja festivals if you visit during the autumn months.
- Witness the Balijatra trade fair in late autumn.
- Visit the Barabati Stadium or the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium for local sports venues.
When to go
You can experience Cuttack's tropical wet and dry climate across three distinct seasons. During the summer months, you should prepare for hot and humid conditions frequently accompanied by thunderstorms. The monsoon season brings significant rainfall to the region; while temperatures are lower than in the summer, this period carries a risk of coastal cyclones.
If you prefer milder weather, visit during the winter when bright sunshine keeps the atmosphere pleasant despite chilly northerly winds. While occasional showers may occur, the season offers a more temperate experience compared to the intense heat of the summer months.
Three days in Cuttack
Day one, you can begin your journey in the Millennium City by exploring the historic sites of Cuttack. You can visit the Barabati Fort or spend time near the Orissa High Court to experience the local atmosphere of this Silver City.
Day two, you can navigate the bustling streets of Bawan Bazar Tepan Gali. You might also enjoy a stroll along the Bidanasi River Embankment to take in the views of the Mahanadi and Kathjodi rivers.
Day three, you can explore the local area before preparing for your departure. You can reach the Cuttack Junction or use the Netaji Bus Terminus to plan your travel toward other destinations like Bhubaneswar, New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, or Kuala Lumpur.