Barabati Fort: Once home to a magnificent 9-storeyed palace, Barabati Fort is located on the banks of Mahanadi River. The highlights of this fort are the elaborately carved gateway and the Gadakhai moat surrounding it. The fort as we see today is actually an improvement on the original structure, which was built in laterite and sandstone. The interiors of the fort have been converted to a huge stadium, which is believed to have the capacity to accommodate over 30,000 people. This stadium is the venue of several sports tournaments and cultural activities.
Stone Revetment of Cuttack: This stone structure on the banks of River Kathjuri is a great engineering marvel of the 11th century A.D. Constructed during the time of th Keshari Kings, these structures protect the city from floods.
Temple of Cuttack Chandi: Dedicated to Goddess Chandi, the presiding deity of the city, this temple is located close to the Barabati Fort. The presiding deity here is an incarnation of Goddess Durga and the temple has splendidly carved walls and gateways.
Quadam-i-Rasool: One of the most prominent mosques in Cuttack, the mosque is bounded by high walls and towers. There are three mosques within, which sport attractive domes and hallways. A fine blend of Indo-Islamic architecture, the central halls contains the footprints of Prhophet Mohammed on a circular stone. Also visit the Nawabat Khana, which is an 18th century music gallery.
Paramhansnath Temple: Located on the outskirts of the city, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its Ananta Garva or waterhole, which is said to flood the temple on special occasions.
Dhawaleshwar: Located almost 37 kms from Cuttack, this beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Perched on a hillock, the temple is set in sylvan green surroundings and is accessible by a flight of stairs.
Chandikhol: Located about 50 kms from Cuttack, Chandikhol is a picnic spot set amidst thick hills and flowing springs. Important landmarks here include a shrine of the five godheads and the Ashram of Baba Bhairavananda.
Ansupa Lake: Located about 70 kms from Cuttack, Ansupa is known for its picturesque landscapes of mangroves and bamboo trees and stunning views of the Saranda Mountains. This pictorial lake is a home to a large number of migratory birds and you can hire a boat and enjoy an interesting session of bird spotting and fishing.
Ratnagiri (70 kms), Lalitgiri (50 kms) and Udayagiri (60 kms): These are renowned Buddhist pilgrimage centers forming the Diamond Triangle of Orrisa. All the three regions are filled with rock-cut caves, excavated monasteries, viharas, chaityas and sacred relics in terracotta chambers.
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