Cuttack is one of the oldest cities in Odisha, sitting at the apex of the Mahanadi river delta where the river splits into its distributaries. For centuries it was the state capital, and the old city retains a density and bustle that its more modern neighbour Bhubaneswar lacks.
The city is known across India for two things: its silver filigree work (tarakashi), sold in the narrow lanes of Nayasarak and Balu Bazaar, and its street food — the dahi bara and aaloo dum served from stalls in front of Barabati Stadium are famous throughout Odisha. Historical sights cluster around the ruins of Barabati Fort and the temples along the riverbank.
Cuttack is also a convenient base for excursions into the Mahanadi delta, with river islands and temples easily reached as day trips.