Cuttack, Odisha City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Cuttack, Odisha City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city.

Cuttack, often referred to as the “Silver City” and the “Millennium City,” is a historic city in the Indian state of Odisha. Known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and vibrant traditions, Cuttack is an important economic and cultural hub in eastern India. Here are some key points about Cuttack:

Geography and Climate:

• Location: Cuttack is located in the eastern part of Odisha, at the confluence of the Mahanadi River and its tributary, the Kathajodi River.
• Climate: The city experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, with hot summers, mild winters, and significant rainfall during the monsoon season.

Economy:

• Trade and Commerce: Cuttack is a key trading hub for agricultural produce, textiles, and consumer goods.
• Handicrafts and Silver Filigree: The city is renowned for its silver filigree work, earning it the nickname “Silver City.”
• Agriculture: The surrounding region is agriculturally rich, producing crops like rice, pulses, and oilseeds.
• Education and Services: The city is a major educational and healthcare hub, contributing significantly to its economy.

Culture and Heritage:

• Languages: Odia is the primary language spoken, but Hindi, English, and other regional languages are also widely understood.
• Festivals: The city celebrates festivals like Durga Puja, Kartik Purnima, Diwali, and Ratha Yatra with great enthusiasm. The Bali Yatra is a popular cultural event showcasing local art, music, and traditions.
• Cuisine: The local cuisine is predominantly Odia, with dishes like dalma, pakhala, chhena poda, and rasagola being popular. The city also offers a variety of street food.

Tourism:

• Historical Sites:
  • Barabati Fort: A historic fort built by the Ganga dynasty, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Netaji Birthplace Museum: A museum dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, located in his ancestral home.
• Religious Sites:
  • Cuttack Chandi Temple: A historic temple dedicated to Goddess Chandi, known for its religious significance.
  • Qadam-e-Rasool: A historic shrine dedicated to Prophet Muhammad, known for its beautiful architecture.
• Natural Attractions:
  • Mahanadi River: A scenic river offering boating and picnic opportunities.
  • Deer Park: A popular park with walking paths, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.

Education and Research:

• Educational Institutions: Cuttack is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including:
  • Ravenshaw University
  • Srirama Chandra Bhanja Medical College and Hospital (SCB Medical College)
  • National Law University Odisha (NLUO)
• Research Centers: The city has research facilities in agriculture, particularly in rice and aquaculture research.

Transportation:

• Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 30 kilometers away.
• Rail: Cuttack Junction is a major railway station on the Indian Railways network, providing excellent connectivity to other parts of India.
• Road: The city is well-connected by national highways (NH-16 and NH-55) and state highways, making it accessible from Bhubaneswar, Puri, and other cities.
• Public Transport: The city has a network of buses operated by the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC).

Governance:

• Administration: Cuttack is governed by the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC), which oversees civic infrastructure and services.
• Smart City Initiative: Cuttack is part of the Indian government’s Smart Cities Mission, aimed at improving urban infrastructure, transportation, and quality of life.

Historical Significance:

• Ancient History: Cuttack has a rich historical legacy, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. It was an important center during the Kalinga and Ganga periods.
• Freedom Struggle: Cuttack played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle, with several leaders and movements originating from the region.

Cultural and Architectural Heritage:

• Silver City: Cuttack’s economy and identity are closely tied to its silver filigree work, earning it the nickname “Silver City.”
• Cultural Festivals: The city’s cultural festivals, such as Bali Yatra and Durga Puja, showcase its rich heritage and traditions.

Cuttack is a vibrant city that blends its rich cultural heritage with modern development. Its historical landmarks, educational institutions, and cultural festivals make it an important city in Odisha. Whether as a cultural center, a tourist destination, or an emerging industrial hub, Cuttack continues to grow and attract visitors and residents alike.