
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Cuttack, Odisha, India
1. Barabati Fort Haunted Tower
A tower within the Barabati Fort is rumored to be haunted by spirits, offering a thrilling experience for the adventurous traveler.
- Ghostly Encounters: Visitors report unexplained phenomena and eerie feelings.
- Historical Background: The haunted tower has a rich history dating back to the Keshari dynasty.
- Night Visit Opportunity: The fort organizes night visits during certain times of the year, enhancing the spooky atmosphere.
2. Mangala Temple Umbrella
An enormous umbrella-like structure at the Mangala temple is one of a kind and adds to the unique charm of this religious site.
- Unparalleled Architecture: The umbrella-shaped construction is unlike any other temple structure in India.
- Religious Significance: The Mangala Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and attracts devotees from all over the region.
- Festival Atmosphere: Visitors can experience the vibrant energy during festivals like Durga Puja and Kali Puja.
3. Dhanu Jogini Temple Boulder
A large boulder at the Dhanu Jogini temple is believed to have mystical powers and offers an unusual experience for visitors.
- Mystic Power Belief: Local legends claim that the boulder can cure ailments when touched.
- Religious Significance: The temple is dedicated to Jogini, a type of female deity in Hinduism.
- Unusual Worship Practices: Visitors can witness unique rituals and worship practices at the temple.
4. Nalabana Bird Sanctuary Crocodile Bridge
The Crocodile Bridge in Nalabana Bird Sanctuary offers a unique view of the crocodiles sunbathing on the banks.
- Crocodile Viewing Opportunity: The bridge provides an excellent vantage point to observe the prehistoric creatures.
- Birdwatcher's Paradise: Nalabana Bird Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of avian species, making it a birdwatcher's dream destination.
- Nature Photography Opportunities: The sanctuary offers numerous opportunities for capturing stunning photographs of wildlife.
5. Jagannath Ballabh Temple Twin Deities
The Jagannath Ballabh temple houses twin deities, an unusual feature in Hindu temples.
- Twin Deity Worship: The temple worships two forms of Lord Vishnu, Jagannath and Ballabh.
- Iconic Architecture: The temple boasts traditional Kalinga architecture and intricate stone carvings.
- Community Involvement: The community plays a significant role in the daily rituals and maintenance of the temple.
6. Sarala Temple Hanging Pillars
The Sarala Temple features hanging pillars, which are unique to this specific temple and architectural style.
- Hanging Pillar Architecture: The hanging pillars showcase the skill of ancient Indian architecture.
- Religious Significance: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sarala, a form of Mother Durga.
- Historical Background: The temple was built in the 16th century and is an important example of Odisha architecture.
7. Temples of Bhooteshwer and Chateshwar
The twin temples of Bhooteshwer and Chateshwar are dedicated to Lord Shiva and offer an unusual combination of architectural styles.
- Twin Temple Architecture: The unique blend of Kalinga, Nagara, and Dravidian architectural styles makes these temples stand out.
- Spiritual Importance: The twin temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting devotees from across the region.
- Sacred Springs: Two sacred springs near the temple are believed to have healing properties.
8. Mukteswara Temple Stone Carvings
The Mukteswara Temple features intricate stone carvings depicting various tales from Hindu mythology.
- Stone Carving Artistry: The temple's stone carvings demonstrate the skill of ancient craftsmen.
- Religious Symbolism: Carvings portray scenes from Hindu mythology, deepening visitors' understanding of the religion.
- Historical Context: The temple was built during the Somavanshi dynasty in the 10th century.
9. Cuttack Chandi Mandir Elephant Corridor
The Cuttack Chandi Mandir features an elephant corridor for the safe transportation of deities during festivals.
- Elephant Worship Tradition: The temple honors elephants as sacred animals, using them in religious rituals.
- Festival Atmosphere: Visitors can experience the energy and excitement during festivals like Dussehra.
- Architectural Integrity: The temple's architecture remains largely intact, showcasing its historical significance.
10. Barabati Stadium Crocodile Mascot
The Barabati Stadium's crocodile mascot is a unique feature that sets it apart from other sports venues.
- Crocodile Mascot Symbolism: The crocodile symbolizes strength and resilience, reflecting the spirit of Cuttack.
- Sports Events Calendar: The stadium hosts various sports events, including cricket matches and football tournaments.
- Historical Connection: The stadium is built on the site of the ancient Barabati Fort.
11. Kali Mandir Bangle Market
The Kali Mandir has a unique bangle market selling colorful glass and metal bangles.
- Bangle Craftsmanship: Visitors can observe the skilled crafting process of intricate glass and metal bangles.
- Religious Significance: The market is located near the Kali Mandir, adding to its spiritual atmosphere.
- Colorful Shopping Experience: The market offers a vibrant and colorful shopping experience for tourists.
12. Dandi Panji Temple Umbrella Shaped Roof
The Dandi Panji Temple has an umbrella-shaped roof that is a unique architectural feature.
- Umbrella Roof Architecture: The temple's umbrella-shaped roof is reminiscent of traditional Odisha architecture.
- Religious Significance: The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, attracting devotees from the region.
- Historical Context: The temple was built during the Ganga dynasty in the 12th century.
13. Ansupa Lake Floating Market
Ansupa Lake features a floating market where vendors sell local produce and goods.
- Floating Market Experience: Visitors can navigate the lake in small boats and shop for fresh produce.
- Local Produce Variety: The market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local goods.
- Natural Surroundings: The floating market is set against the picturesque backdrop of Ansupa Lake.
14. Udayagiri Caves Ancient Rock-cut Temples
The Udayagiri caves feature ancient rock-cut temples, showcasing the skill of early Indian craftsmen.
- Rock-Cut Temple Architecture: The caves demonstrate the ingenuity and skill of ancient Indian rock cutters.
- Historical Significance: The caves are associated with the Kalinga Empire and date back to the 2nd century BC.
- Religious Symbolism: Temples within the caves showcase various deities from Hindu mythology.
15. Kanha Lake Ghost House
A dilapidated house on Kanha Lake is rumored to be haunted, offering an unusual and spooky experience for visitors.
- Ghostly Encounters: Visitors report eerie feelings and strange noises coming from the house.
- Historical Background: The house has a grim history, with tales of tragedies and ghostly apparitions.
- Night Visit Opportunity: Visitors can explore the haunted house during nighttime visits organized by locals.