Cuttack

History of Cuttack

The former capital of Orrisa, Cuttack is known to be one of the oldest cities in India. The town has a rich and eventful history. It was founded by King Nrupa in 989 A.D as a military cantonment and was later ruled by the Mughals, Afghans and Marathas before coming under the British rule, during which it was made the capital of Orissa. In the 12th century, it was the capital of the Ganga Dynasty. The city flourished beautifully till Firoz Shah Tughlaq captured it during the 14th century. There was distress in the city during this period, and there was mass destruction and looting that took place. In 1956, the capital was shifted to Bhubaneswar. Cuttack, however, remains an important commercial centre in the state.

Culture of Cuttack

Earlier, Cuttack was ruled by Mughals, Marathas and then the British and hence there is are influences of all these cultures. The language predominantly spoken here is Oriya. But English, Hindi and Bengali are spoken and understood widely. Odissi is the dance form that is originated from this region. Tarakasi is an art in jewellery, craft pieces and accessories are made from silver filigree. This art dated back to over 500 years and travelled through traders from Indonesia to Cuttack. Bali Yatra is a festival that is celebrated grandly and is known to be the second largest trade fair in Asia. It is a fair that celebrates trade with Bali where traders purchased goods from South East Asian countries and sold it in the city. Kartikeshwar Puja and Dusserah are also widely celebrated throughout the city with pomp.

Suggested Itinerary

Note: This itinerary is customizable. Fill free with Empire India Tours for further customize it as per your requirements.

Day 1: Bhubaneswar Arrival

On arrival at Bhubaneswar (the city of temples) airport or railway station, met by our representative. Then transfer to hotel. Later proceed to half day sightseeing:-Lingaraj temple, dedicated to Lort Shiva, Parsurameswar, Mukteswar, Siddheswar, Rajarani & Megheswar temple. Night halt at hotel.

Day 2: Konark & Puri Excursion

After Breakfast drive to Konark enroute visit Ramchandi temple. Arrive at Konark Sun temple, which is the 13th century Temple (also known as the Black Pagoda) & ASI Museum. It is one of the Seven Wonders of India . Later visit Chandrabhaga beach. Afternoon proceed to Puri to visit the legendary Jagannath temple, part of the Char Dham pilgrimages. The temple is famous for its annual Rath Yatra, or chariot festival. Then drive back to Bhubaneswar & stay over night there.

Day 3: Bhubaneswar Day Excursion

After Breakfast proceed visit the cuttack city, fort barabati and silver filigiri work of goldsmith then lead to Lalit Giri, a Buddhist complex in Orissa comprising major stupas and monasteries (viharas), and Ratnagiri to see the Budhist sculptures.  Overnight at Bhubaneswar.

Day 4: Bhubaneswar Drop

After Breakfast & check out, Proceed to Nandankanan,the garden of Gods. It also contains a botanical garden and part of it is has been declared a santuary. It’s famous for it’s white tiger population. Then droop at airport or railway for your onward journey with sweet memories.