Cuttack travel guide

Cuttack is one of Orissa’s oldest cities and its medieval capital. It was founded by Nrupat Kesari (ruled 920-935). It remained the administrative centre until the end of the British Raj and was the state capital until 1956. The ancient stone embankment to the south was built in the 11th century by the Kesari ruler to protect the town from flooding by the Kathjuri River. It still stands as a reminder of the engineering skills practised 900 years ago. The Qadam-i-Rasul (Kadam Rasul) in the centre of the old city, visited as a shrine by both Muslims and Hindus, has three 18th-century mosques with beautiful domes and a music gallery. The shrines contain relics of the Prophet Mohammad; the prophet’s footprint is carved on a circular stone. The famous silver filigree shops are in Balu Bazar.

To the northwest the blue granite 13th-century Barabati Fort is being excavated by the Archaeological Survey. Its wide moat and gateway remain but the nine-storeyed palace has disappeared. Probably built by a Ganga ruler, it was in Marhatta hands when it was taken by the British in 1803. Close to the fort is the vast Barabati Stadium where major sporting and cultural events are held. The Church of St Michael and all the Angels (CNI) by the river, typical of raj-style church buildings, is worth a visit.