Cuttack Tourism

Cuttack, located in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, is one of the oldest cities in India. Known as the ‘Silver City’ due to its rich silver filigree works, it served as the capital of Odisha for over 1,000 years. Cuttack is situated at the apex of River Mahanadi’s deltaic region and is surrounded by lush green paddy fields, rivers, and lakes.

Overview of Cuttack

Cuttack has a rich history and cultural heritage spanning over several centuries. The ancient monuments, temples, silver filigree work, traditional handicrafts, mouth-watering cuisine, festivals, and fairs attract tourists from all over India and abroad. The Barabati Fort, Qadam Rasool, and Bhattarika Temple are some of the key tourist attractions in Cuttack. The city also serves as the commercial capital and gateway to Odisha with many industries, educational institutions, and government offices located here. Cuttack is famous across India for its distinctive silver-based handicrafts industry nurtured over generations by the local artisans.

Places to Visit in Cuttack

Barabati Fort

The historic Barabati Fort on the banks of River Mahanadi is a top tourist attraction in Cuttack. Built-in the 14th century, the magnificent fort offers breathtaking views of Mahanadi.

Qadam Rasool Mosque

Believed to house the footprint of Prophet Muhammad, Qadam Rasool is an important Islamic shrine attracting devotees from India and abroad. The sandstone mosque displays beautiful carvings and Islamic architecture.

Bhattarika Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Girija, this ancient 10th-century temple built in the typical Kalinga style of architecture is not to be missed. Intricately carved motifs, stone lion structures, and scenic locations make it a top pilgrimage site in Cuttack.

Chandi Temple

This small but captivating temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi of the Hindu pantheon is renowned for its intricate and detailed carvings depicting mythological episodes and images of warriors in horses.

Netaji Birthplace Museum

Located in the Odia Bazar area, this museum is the ancestral house of eminent freedom fighter Netaji Subash Chandra Bose. It showcases a collection of his photos and belongings.

Cuttack Chandi Bridge (Jahania Bridge)

Built on River Mahanadi in the 1920s by Rani Baherabai of Jahanabad, this bridge offers a panoramic view of the rushing river below.

Sex Ratio and Literacy of Cuttack

As per census data, Cuttack district has a sex ratio of 935 females per 1000 males which is higher than the state average. The literacy rate in Cuttack is approximately 83% as of 2011, with male literacy at 88% and female literacy at 77%.

Nearby Tourist Areas

Some popular tourist spots near Cuttack include:

• Dhabaleswar Temple & Island (35 km)
• Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary (60 km)
• Ansupa Lake & Boating Site (65 km)
• Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary (100 km)
• Puri Beach & Jagannath Temple (55 km)

From ancient monuments to wildlife sanctuaries to silver handicrafts shopping, Cuttack surprises tourists with its diverse attractions and rich cultural heritage.