One of Orissa's oldest cities ( Abhinaba Baranasi Kataka of medieval times), Cuttack is a bustling commercial centre, situated on the delta formed by the Mahanadi and Kathjori rivers. The legendary engineering skills of the ancient Orissans are not only featured in their wonderful temples but also can be seen in the llth century AD stone embankments on the Kathjori river.

The ruins of the Barabati fort, on the bank of the Mahanadi, evoke memories of bygone days, while the fort's location is home to a modern stadium which rings with the sounds of sports events and cultural programmes today. The venerated shrine of Katak Chandi is at a strolling distance from the fort area.

The Qadam-i-Rasool has the unusual element of being venerated by both Muslims and Hindus. The shrine has a high compound wall and towers at each corner. There are three mosques within with elegant domes and a Nawabat KhanaC music gallery) built in the 18th century AD. The central dome structure has the footprints of Prophet Mohammad imprinted on a circular stone.

Cuttack also offers excellent shopping facilities. Handicrafts and textiles, both in silk and cotton from the Cuttack region and elsewhere in Orissa are available in the state emporia. But Cuttack is best known for its excellent silver filigree work which is fashioned into exquisite jewellery, utensils and decorative items. Cuttack is 30 km from Bhubaneswar.