Cuttack is one of the most significant cities of Odisha in Cuttack District that portrays rich heritage and prosperity from 900 AD till now.

Naming of Cuttack
The city`s name, Cuttack, has been derived from the Sanskrit word `Kataka`, which signifies a military camp or a fort or a Government seat protected by an army. Cuttack is one of the oldest cities in India and the Commercial Capital of Odisha and is the second largest city in Odisha.

Location of Cuttack
The location of Cuttack is in a tongue of land formed by the Mahanadi River and its main branch the Kathajodi River at their points of bifurcation in 20 degree 17 minutes North and 85 degree 31 minutes.

Geography of Cuttack
Cuttack is known as the cultural capital of Odisha. It lies near Bhubaneswar, Puri and Konark.

History of Cuttack
Cuttack was founded almost thousand years ago, in 989 A.D by King Markata Keshari. It was the capital of Odisha for almost nine centuries, before Bhubaneswar was made the capital city in 1948.

Education in Cuttack
There are many Engineering colleges and a Government Medical college in Cuttack too. The city has many historical sites like Barbati fort and others. The Aviation Research Centre airbase, an arm of the intelligence agency RAW, is located at Charbatia, Cuttack. Schools in Cuttack are either "municipal schools" (run by the CMC) or private schools (run by trusts or individuals), which in some cases receive financial aid from the government. Oriya or English is the general language of instruction.

Economy of Cuttack
Cuttack along with Bhubaneswar is collectively known as the "twin cities" of Odisha. With its world famous exceptional filigree works in silver, ivory and brass works and textiles of woven silk and cotton, Cuttack city is perhaps the grandest showroom of Odisha. Recent growth of the city has resulted in expansion across the river Kathjori and a newer township towards the head of the delta formed between the distributaries Kathjori River and the Mahanadi. Cuttack is referred to as a city with Babaan Bazaar, Teppan Galee and many more market places. It is one of the rare Indian cities that have 52 markets and 53 streets.

Culture of Cuttack
Cuttack has a modern stadium called the Barabati Stadium that hosts many national and international cricket matches. All the Oriya festivals are celebrated in a grand way in Cuttack. But the Unique festivals of Cuttack are Dusshera and Baliyatra. Dusshera is the festival of goddess Durga. It is celebrated with much fanfare all across the city. Cuttack is famous for its Chandi Medha, which are basically silver filigree works. Baliyatra is the festival of remembering the ancient tradition of trade between Odisha and Java, Bali and Sumatra, held every year in the month of November. Among other celebrations the Kite flying festival is very much attractive in Cuttack that is held in the month of January. Cuttack is one of the finest cities in Odisha with multifaceted culture and heritage.

Tourism in Cuttack
The highest temple of Cuttack is Paramahansa Nath Temple, which is situated near Biribati, 14 km away from town. The famous Katak Chandi Temple and Bhattarika Temple adds to this Millennium City. The holy historical Sikh Shrine "`The Gurdwara Daatan Sahib`" is situated here. It is here that the first Sikh Guru, Shree Guru Nanak Dev halted on his way to Puri. It is believed that a tree planted by him after using it as a Tooth Cleaner still flourishes here, hence is the name Daatan Sahib.

Visiting Information
Cuttack lies on the national highway no. 5, connecting the eminent cities of Kolkata and Chennai. Well connected by rail, Cuttack is an important hub for most trains. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport, which is 28 km away. It also has the largest bus terminus of the state. An Indian Air Force Airport is also present in Charbatia at Cuttack.

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