Best Backpacking Destinations in Cuttack, Odisha, India

Cuttack, India, Cuttack, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Best Backpacking Destinations

Best Backpacking Destinations in Cuttack, Odisha, India

1. Mangalajodi Wetland Sanctuary

A serene paradise for birdwatchers with over 160 species of avian fauna. Experience the tranquility and witness the stunning sunrise.
  • Abundant Birdlife: Offers a chance to spot rare and endangered birds like Painted Stork, Black-necked Stork, and Spot-billed Pelican.
  • Nature Immersion: Allows visitors to connect with nature through boat rides and guided walks.
  • Eco-tourism Approach: Adheres to eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to the ecosystem.

2. Barabati Fort

Historical fort dating back to the 7th century, offering panoramic views of Cuttack city and the Mahanadi River.
  • Rich History: Holds historical significance as a stronghold for various rulers like the Ganga and Maratha dynasties.
  • Architectural Wonders: Showcases intricate stone carvings and architectural styles that blend Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain elements.
  • Cultural Exposure: Provides insight into the region's history and cultural evolution.

3. Dhabaleswar Temple

An ancient temple on an island in the Mahanadi River, accessible only during low tide. Offers a spiritual and peaceful escape.
  • Spiritual Sanctuary: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple attracts devotees from far and wide.
  • Island Escape: A secluded location offering tranquility and a break from urban life.
  • Low Tide Accessibility: Visitors must time their visit with the low tide to access the island.

4. Cuttack Chandi Temple

A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, known for its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.
  • Spiritual Significance: One of the Shakti Peethas, believed to house a part of Goddess Sati's body.
  • Architectural Marvel: Features intricate stone carvings and architectural styles that blend Hindu and Kalinga elements.
  • Festival Celebrations: Hosts grand festivals like Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, and Saraswati Puja.

5. Kuakhai Wildlife Sanctuary

A pristine wilderness home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Gharial crocodiles.
  • Wildlife Diversity: Hosts a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, and elephants.
  • Nature Conservation: Serves as a critical habitat for endangered species like the Gharial crocodile and the Indian Painted Stork.
  • Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors spot wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

6. Katkia Reserved Forest

A lush green forest reserve housing diverse flora and fauna, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and treks.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Provides an opportunity to spot exotic animals like the sloth bear, leopard, and wild boar.
  • Treks and Trails: Features various trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Eco-friendly Practices: Adheres to eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to the ecosystem.

7. Bharatpur Temple

An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, renowned for its intricate carvings and peaceful ambiance.
  • Spiritual Significance: Holds spiritual significance as one of the oldest temples in Cuttack.
  • Architectural Grandeur: Features intricate stone carvings and architectural styles that blend Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain elements.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil atmosphere for meditation and spiritual introspection.

8. Jatani Wildlife Sanctuary

A sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Olive Ridley Turtles and other marine life.
  • Marine Conservation: Serves as a critical habitat for the Olive Ridley Turtles, a threatened species.
  • Turtle Nesting Sites: Offers visitors the opportunity to witness turtle nesting and hatchlings making their way to the sea.
  • Eco-friendly Practices: Adheres to eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to the ecosystem.

9. Netaji Subhas National Park

A sprawling national park offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and treks amidst lush greenery.
  • Wildlife Diversity: Hosts a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, and elephants.
  • Treks and Trails: Features various trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Eco-friendly Practices: Adheres to eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to the ecosystem.

10. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary

A wetland sanctuary teeming with diverse bird and wildlife species, including the endangered Gharial crocodiles.
  • Wildlife Diversity: Hosts a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, and elephants.
  • Birdwatching Opportunities: Offers opportunities for birdwatching, with over 160 species of birds found here.
  • Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors spot wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

11. Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves

An ancient network of caves dating back to the 2nd century BCE, showcasing Jain architecture and history.
  • Historical Significance: Holds historical significance as a center for the Jain community during the Kalinga Empire.
  • Architectural Wonders: Features intricate carvings and architectural styles that blend Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain elements.
  • Cultural Exposure: Provides insight into the region's history and cultural evolution.

12. Taratala Wildlife Sanctuary

A wildlife sanctuary housing diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Gharial crocodiles.
  • Wildlife Diversity: Hosts a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, and elephants.
  • Nature Conservation: Serves as a critical habitat for endangered species like the Gharial crocodile and the Indian Painted Stork.
  • Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors spot wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

13. Dhenkanal Wildlife Sanctuary

A sprawling sanctuary offering opportunities for wildlife spotting amidst lush greenery.
  • Wildlife Diversity: Hosts a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, and elephants.
  • Treks and Trails: Features various trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Eco-friendly Practices: Adheres to eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to the ecosystem.

14. Nalabana Bird Sanctuary

A wetland sanctuary teeming with diverse bird species, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
  • Birdwatching Opportunities: Offers opportunities for birdwatching, with over 160 species of birds found here.
  • Nature Conservation: Serves as a critical habitat for various bird species.
  • Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors spot birds and learn about conservation efforts.

15. Kalijai Temple

An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located on an island in the Mahanadi River, offering spiritual and scenic beauty.
  • Spiritual Significance: One of the Shakti Peethas, believed to house a part of Goddess Sati's body.
  • Scenic Beauty: Located on an island in the Mahanadi River, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Cultural Exposure: Provides insight into the region's history and cultural evolution.