3 Days in Cuttack for a Tasty Food Trip

Cuttack is a hidden gem for food lovers, with its unique blend of Odia flavors and street food culture. I've spent countless evenings exploring its bustling markets and tiny eateries, and this itinerary covers the best bites the city has to offer. From crispy dahibara to spicy seafood, you'll get a real taste of local life here.

Odisha, odisha
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Trying the famous Cuttack dahibara-aloodum at a busy street stall
Feasting on fresh prawn malai curry at a riverside eatery
Discovering sweet treats like rasabali at century-old sweet shops
Exploring the vibrant Chandi Chowk night market for late-night snacks

Best Time to Visit

OctoberNovember

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Day 1

Day 1 in Cuttack

A day packed with Cuttack's iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and mouthwatering local flavors.

Activities

Explore Barabati Fort
Explore Barabati Fort

Start your day at the historic Barabati Fort, a 14th-century structure that offers a glimpse into Cuttack's past. The fort's ruins and the adjacent Barabati Stadium make for a great morning stroll. Don’t miss the view of the Mahanadi River from the fort’s ramparts.

Barabati Fort, near Barabati Stadium8:00 AM - 9:30 AM (best in the morning to avoid the heat)Free
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain
  • Carry water as there aren’t many shops nearby
Visit Netaji Birthplace Museum
Visit Netaji Birthplace Museum

Head to the Netaji Birthplace Museum, dedicated to the freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose. The museum houses personal artifacts, photographs, and letters that tell the story of his life. The colonial-era building itself is a treat for history buffs.

Netaji Birthplace Museum, Oriya Bazar10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (opens at 10 AM)₹10 per person
Tips:
  • Photography is restricted inside the museum
  • Combine this with a quick walk around Oriya Bazar for local snacks
Lunch at Dalma

For lunch, head to Dalma, a no-frills eatery famous for its authentic Odia thali. Their dalma (a lentil and vegetable stew) and machha besara (fish curry) are must-tries. The place is always buzzing with locals, which speaks volumes about its authenticity.

Dalma, Badambadi12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (peak lunch hour, so expect a short wait)₹150-₹300 per person
Tips:
  • Try their chenna poda (caramelized cottage cheese dessert) if available
  • Cash-only, so carry enough rupees

Must Try Foods

Dahi vada aloo dum (yogurt-drenched lentil fritters with spicy potatoes)
Chhena jalebi (cottage cheese-based sweet)
Cuttack-style dahibara (a local twist on dahi vada)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Cuttack Railway Station (3 km from city center, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Badambadi Bus Stand (central hub, frequent buses to all parts of the city)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and Ola cabs are easily available; negotiate fares for autos before riding

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Cuttack

Dive deeper into Cuttack's culture with historic temples, vibrant markets, and iconic street food.

Activities

Visit Chandi Temple

Start your day with blessings at the famous Chandi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chandi. The temple's intricate carvings and spiritual vibe make it a must-visit. Mornings are peaceful, with locals offering prayers and the scent of fresh flowers in the air.

Chandi Temple, near Badambadi6:00 AM - 8:00 AM (best for a quiet visit)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it's a religious site
  • Try the temple's prasad if offered
Explore Badambadi Market

Head to Badambadi, Cuttack's bustling market area, known for its silver filigree work and handloom textiles. Watch artisans craft delicate silver jewelry or pick up a traditional Odisha saree. The market is chaotic but full of character.

Badambadi Market, near Chandi Temple9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (before the midday heat)Varies (budget around ₹500-2000 for souvenirs)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely for better deals
  • Look for the tiny shops selling filigree—they often have the best work
Lunch at Truptee Restaurant

For a taste of authentic Odia thali, Truptee is a local favorite. Their meals come with a spread of dalma, vegetable curries, fish or chicken, and desserts like chhena poda. The flavors are homely and satisfying.

Truptee Restaurant, Badambadi12:30 PM - 1:30 PM (peak lunch hour, but worth the wait)₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Try their mango pickle—it's a highlight
  • Weekends can get crowded, so arrive early

Must Try Foods

Dahi vada aloo dum (yogurt-soaked vadas with spicy potato curry)
Cuttack chaat (tangy, spicy street snacks)
Rasabali (sweet, fried cheese in thickened milk)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Cuttack Railway Station (2 km, 10 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Badambadi Bus Stand (central location, buses every 15 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs easily available; use Ola or Uber for convenience

Day 3

Day 3 in Cuttack

A relaxed day exploring Cuttack's hidden gems, from serene riverfronts to local crafts and flavors.

Activities

Morning at Mahanadi Riverfront
Morning at Mahanadi Riverfront

Start your day with a peaceful stroll along the Mahanadi Riverfront. The quiet morning atmosphere is perfect for watching fishermen at work and locals taking their morning walks. Don’t miss the small tea stalls serving adrak chai (ginger tea) with crispy biscuits—a simple but delightful way to soak in the local vibe.

Mahanadi Riverfront, near Jobra6:30 AM - 8:00 AM (best for cool weather and fewer crowds)Free (tea costs around ₹10-20)
Tips:
  • Carry a hat or sunglasses—mornings can get sunny.
  • Try the local 'khaja' from nearby vendors—a flaky, sweet snack.
Explore Silver Filigree Workshops

Cuttack is famous for its intricate silver filigree work, known as 'Tarakasi'. Visit the workshops in the old city to see artisans crafting delicate jewelry and decorative items. Some workshops even let you try your hand at basic designs. It’s a great way to appreciate this centuries-old craft and pick up unique souvenirs.

Silver Filigree Lane, near Chandni Chowk10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (artisans are most active in the morning)Free to visit (shopping varies)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely if buying—prices can be flexible.
  • Ask before taking photos of artisans at work.
Lunch at Biryani House

Wrap up your Cuttack food journey with a hearty meal at Biryani House, a local favorite known for its aromatic mutton biryani and spicy chicken curry. The flavors here are robust and distinctly Odia, with a touch of Mughlai influence. Pair it with a chilled lassi for the perfect finish.

Biryani House, near Ranihat1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (avoid the 12:30 PM lunch rush)₹200-400 per person
Tips:
  • Try their 'dahi vada' as a starter—it’s creamy and tangy.
  • Portions are large; consider sharing if you’re not too hungry.

Must Try Foods

Adrak Chai (ginger tea)
Khaja (sweet flaky pastry)
Mutton Biryani at Biryani House

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Cuttack Railway Station (3 km from city center, 10-15 mins by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Badambadi Bus Stand (frequent buses to all parts of the city)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws and Ola/Uber cabs are easily available; negotiate fares for autos upfront.

Travel Tips

Start your food walks early - many specialty items sell out by afternoon
Carry cash as most local eateries don't accept cards
Don't shy away from small roadside stalls - they often serve the most authentic flavors
Try to visit during Durga Puja if possible - the festive food stalls are incredible

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