Cuttack is the second largest city of Odisha. This city is also acting as best commercial centre for odisha. Earlier name of this city is Katak which means The Fort. This name refers to the ancient Barabati Fort. City was developed around this fort. During the historical days city was acted as capital to Kalinga. Kalinga is the older name of Odisha. This was established in 989 by Nrupa Keshari as a Military Cantonment. For the shopping loves best things to buy are Brass, ivory carving, silver filigree work products. Bali Yatra, Durga Pooja, Kali Pooja are famous festivals in Cuttack.
What to see in Cuttack:
Cuttack Chandi Temple: This is the major attraction of the city. Goddess Chandi is worshipped in this temple. Durga Pooja and Kali Puja celebrate so grandly in this temple. Besides the temple one can find Mahanadi River.
Barabati Fort: Once, this was most impressive 9 storied structures but now visitors can see only ruins of the fort. Fort is now has a cricket stadium. Excellent carvings can be seen on the gate of this fort. This was constructed in 11th century.
Bhattarika Temple: This temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhattarika who is an incarnation of Shakti. This is situated on the banks of river Mahanadi.
Stone Revetment: This is a symbol of brilliant ancient engineering skills. It was constructed by Keshari kings during 11th century.
Qadam-I-Rasool: This is important place to both Muslims and Hindus. 3 mosques are placed here. Music gallery called Nawabat Khana is the major attraction of this place. Architecture depicts both Hindus and Muslim style.
Gurdwara Daatan Sahib: This is the holy place for the Sikh community. First Sikh Guru Shree Guru Nanak Dev had passed through and halted for some time when he was going to puri.
Netaji Museum: Rare collection of letters written by Netaji Shubhas Chandra Bose apart from few other valuables of him are placed here.
What to see around Cuttack:
Bhitarkanika Wildlife sanctuary: This is best place to see large variety of Flora and Fauna. It is located 27kms away from Cuttack. Along with flora and Fauna, large variety of mammals and reptiles can also be seen here.
Bhubaneswar: It is located 27kms away from Cuttack. Along with Konark and Puri this forms Golden triangle of temples. This place is famous for several temples and gardens.
Singanatha Temple: This temple is famous for its unique architectural style. Singanatha is the ancient temple in Cuttack. It is located on the rocky Cliff Island of Mahanadi River which is 20kms away from Cuttack.
Dhavaleswar: This temple is sacred to Hindus. Every year thousands of Hindus come to this place. This was constructed in 10th century which was dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located 25kms away from Cuttack on one of the Islands of Mahanadi River.
Getting to Cuttack: Cuttack is well connected with road and railways. From the cities such as Kolkata, Chennai, Bhubaneswar buses are available to reach this place. From the cities such as Hyderabad, Raipur, Jodhpur, Bhagalpur etc trains come to this place. Nearest airport is located at Bhubaneswar.
Getting around Cuttack: Autos, cycle rickshaws, taxis, buses are available to visit the surrounding places of Cuttack.
Best time to visit Cuttack: September to March is the best time to visit Cuttack. During the summer season temperature is very high.
Where to stay in Cuttack: Plenty of hotels are available to stay in Cuttack. Luxury hotels are few in the city. Along with hotels guest houses are also available to stay in Cuttack.
Where to eat in Cuttack: Very limited restaurants in Cuttack. Only simple Indian meals are available. Most famous food is Thunka Puri. This is prepared only during Bali Yatra Period. In-house restaurants serve Italian, Continental, Chinese and Indian Cuisines.