Cuttack is a city located in the eastern state of Odisha, India. It’s the former capital of the state and is known for its rich history, culture, and ancient temples. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Cuttack:
Barabati Fort: Barabati Fort is an ancient fort located in the heart of Cuttack. It’s believed to have been built by the Ganga dynasty in the 14th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Dhabaleswar Temple: Dhabaleswar Temple is a famous Hindu temple located on an island in the Mahanadi river. It’s dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
Cuttack Chandi Temple: Cuttack Chandi Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, the presiding deity of Cuttack. It’s believed to have been built in the 10th century and is an important pilgrimage site for devotees.
Netaji Birthplace Museum: Netaji Birthplace Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent Indian freedom fighter and politician. It’s located in the ancestral home of Netaji in Cuttack.
Bhitarkanika National Park: Bhitarkanika National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the nearby Kendrapara district. It’s home to several species of flora and fauna, including saltwater crocodiles, Indian pythons, and kingfishers.
Shopping at Silver Filigree Market: Cuttack is famous for its silver filigree work, and the Silver Filigree Market is a must-visit for those interested in handicrafts and jewelry.
Try the local cuisine: Cuttack is known for its delicious street food, including dahibara-aloo dum, chhena poda, and bara ghuguni. Make sure to try the local cuisine when you visit Cuttack.
Cuttack is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Make sure to plan your trip in advance and explore all that the city has to offer.
Best Time To Visit Cuttack
The best time to visit Cuttack is during the winter season, which starts from November and lasts till February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The winter season is the ideal time to explore the city’s famous temples, ancient forts, and wildlife sanctuaries.
The summer season, which starts from March and lasts till June, is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. It’s not an ideal time to visit Cuttack as the heat can be unbearable, and sightseeing can be uncomfortable.
The monsoon season, which starts from July and lasts till October, is characterized by heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The city is known to experience floods during the monsoon season, and it’s not an ideal time to visit Cuttack as the weather can disrupt your travel plans.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Cuttack is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant, and the city’s attractions can be enjoyed comfortably. However, it’s recommended to check the weather conditions before planning your trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
How to get around in Cuttack
Here are some options for getting around in Cuttack:
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular and convenient mode of transportation in Cuttack. They are available throughout the city and can be hired for short distances. Make sure to negotiate the fare before boarding the auto-rickshaw.
Buses: Cuttack has a well-connected public bus system that runs throughout the city and nearby areas. The buses are affordable and offer a comfortable way to get around the city.
Taxis: Taxis are available for hire in Cuttack, and they offer a more comfortable and convenient way to get around the city. You can book a taxi through various online platforms or by contacting a local taxi service.
Motorbikes: Renting a motorbike can be a fun and exciting way to explore Cuttack and its surroundings. There are several rental services available throughout the city, and the rates are affordable.
Walking: Cuttack is a relatively small city, and walking can be a great way to explore the local streets and attractions. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry a map or GPS device.
When getting around in Cuttack, it’s important to keep in mind that traffic can be heavy and chaotic, especially during peak hours. It’s recommended to plan your route in advance and allow for extra time when traveling to avoid any delays.
Where to eat in Cuttack
Cuttack is known for its delicious street food and local cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Cuttack:
Barabati Restaurant: Barabati Restaurant is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Cuttack, serving delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. The restaurant is famous for its biryani, kebabs, and seafood dishes.
Dalma Restaurant: Dalma Restaurant is a famous restaurant chain in Cuttack, serving authentic Odia cuisine. The restaurant is known for its thali meals, which include rice, dal, vegetables, and other local delicacies.
Chhapan Bhog: Chhapan Bhog is a popular sweet shop in Cuttack, known for its delicious chhena-based sweets like rasagulla, chhena poda, and chhena gaja.
Bindaas: Bindaas is a street food joint located near the SCB Medical College in Cuttack. It serves delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian street food, including dahibara-aloo dum, chaat, and pani puri.
Nayak’s Egg Station: Nayak’s Egg Station is a popular food truck located near the Jobra Bridge in Cuttack, serving a variety of egg dishes, including boiled eggs, omelets, and egg rolls.
Royal Treat: Royal Treat is a popular bakery and confectionery in Cuttack, serving a wide range of cakes, pastries, and other baked goods.
Annapurna: Annapurna is a vegetarian restaurant located in the heart of Cuttack, serving delicious vegetarian food. The restaurant is known for its thali meals, which include a variety of vegetarian dishes.
These are just a few of the many places to eat in Cuttack. Make sure to explore the local streets and markets to discover more delicious food options.
Famous street stalls in Cuttack
Cuttack is known for its delicious street food, and there are several popular street stalls that you should try when in the city. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Cuttack:
Dahibara Aloodum at Raghu Dahibara: Raghu Dahibara is a famous street food stall located near the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. The stall is known for its delicious dahibara and aloodum, a popular street food dish in Odisha.
Chaat at Binod Chaat Bhandar: Binod Chaat Bhandar is a popular street food stall located near the College Square in Cuttack. The stall is known for its delicious chaat, a spicy and tangy street food dish made with chickpeas, potatoes, and a variety of chutneys.
Ghuguni at Sudama Snacks: Sudama Snacks is a famous street food stall located near the SCB Medical College in Cuttack. The stall is known for its delicious ghuguni, a street food dish made with yellow peas cooked in a spicy curry.
Bara at Bara Ghar: Bara Ghar is a popular street food stall located near the Chandi Mandir in Cuttack. The stall is known for its delicious bara, a deep-fried snack made with a mixture of lentils, onions, and spices.
Pani Puri at Sukh Sagar: Sukh Sagar is a famous street food stall located near the Badambadi Bus Stand in Cuttack. The stall is known for its delicious pani puri, a popular street food dish made with crispy puris filled with spiced water, chickpeas, and potatoes.
These are just a few of the many famous street stalls in Cuttack. Make sure to explore the local streets and markets to discover more delicious street food options.
Where to stay in Cuttack
Luxury accommodation
Cuttack has several luxury accommodation options that offer world-class amenities and services. Here are some of the best luxury hotels to stay in Cuttack:
Mayfair Lagoon: Mayfair Lagoon is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, and multiple dining options.
The Crown: The Crown is another luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features elegantly furnished rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, and multiple dining options.
The Presidency: The Presidency is a 4-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, and multiple dining options.
Hotel Grand Residency: Hotel Grand Residency is a luxurious 4-star hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features well-appointed rooms and suites, a fitness center, a spa, and multiple dining options.
Hotel Seetal: Hotel Seetal is a luxurious 3-star hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options in Cuttack. Make sure to book in advance to get the best deals and availability.
Where to stay in Cuttack
Budget accommodation
Cuttack has several budget accommodation options that offer comfortable rooms and basic amenities. Here are some of the best budget hotels and guesthouses to stay in Cuttack:
Hotel Sagar Shree: Hotel Sagar Shree is a budget hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and a restaurant.
Hotel Ashoka Cuttack: Hotel Ashoka Cuttack is a budget hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and a restaurant.
OYO 29318 Hotel Bishal Inn: OYO 29318 Hotel Bishal Inn is a budget hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and a restaurant.
Hotel Akbari Continental: Hotel Akbari Continental is a budget hotel located in the heart of Cuttack. The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and a restaurant.
Hotel Shree Jagannath: Hotel Shree Jagannath is a budget guesthouse located in the heart of Cuttack. The guesthouse features clean and comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and a restaurant.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodation options in Cuttack. Make sure to book in advance to get the best deals and availability.
Travel Tips Cuttack
Here are some travel tips for visiting Cuttack:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Cuttack is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing.
Language: The primary language spoken in Cuttack is Odia. However, Hindi and English are also widely spoken and understood.
Transportation: Cuttack has good transportation facilities including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
Food: Cuttack is famous for its street food such as Dahibara Aloodum, Cuttack Chhena Poda, and Bara Ghuguni. However, make sure to only eat from trusted vendors and avoid eating street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Sightseeing: Cuttack has several tourist attractions such as the Barabati Fort, Netaji Birthplace Museum, and Dhabaleswar Island. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance and hire a local guide for a better understanding of the history and culture of the city.
Dress code: Cuttack is a conservative city, and it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Safety: Cuttack is a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions such as keeping your valuables safe, avoiding deserted areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Cuttack.