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How to Get to Cuttack

How to Get to Cuttack

Cuttack Odisha, India Travel Guide

Airport and Flight Information

Flight Connectivity

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, approximately 30-35 km from Cuttack, is the closest major airport.

Airlines and Routes

  • Domestic: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, Alliance Air.
  • Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad.
  • International: Limited direct flights (Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, Bangkok).

International Access

No direct flights connect major global hubs to Bhubaneswar (BBI). Every international journeys require at least one stop.

Connecting Routes

  • Connect using major Indian hubs (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai).
  • Or via international hubs like Dubai, Kuala Lumpur, or Bangkok.
  • Prepare for a connecting flight within India to reach BBI.

Seasonal Pricing

Higher prices in High Season (Oct-Mar), lower in Low Season (Apr-Sep). Book 2-3 months ahead.

Airport Facilities

BBI is modern, offering duty-free, dining, currency exchange, car rentals, lounges, Wi-Fi.

Transfers to Cuttack

Taxi, pre-paid taxi, Ola/Uber are options. Bus and train also available from Bhubaneswar.

Transfer Options from Bhubaneswar Airport to Cuttack

Convenient Taxi Services

  • Pre-paid taxi counters are available at the airport.
  • App-based taxis like Ola and Uber operate from BBI.
  • Journey approximately 45-90 minutes, subject to traffic.
  • Confirm fare before beginning your journey.

Public Transport Alternatives

  • OSRTC buses connect Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
  • Catch buses near the airport or from the main Bhubaneswar bus stand.
  • Bhubaneswar (BBS) railway station has frequent local trains to Cuttack (CTC).
  • Buy tickets at the station or via official apps.

Bhubaneswar Airport Services

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, a range of restaurants and cafes cater to travelers.

Financial Services

Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available for financial needs.

Passenger Comfort

Car rental services, comfortable passenger lounges, and medical facilities.

Land Transportation to Cuttack

Rail Network

Cuttack Train Terminal (CTC) is a major junction on the East Coast Railway zone, connecting to major cities across India.

Train Services & Booking

  • Connections to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad.
  • Book via Indian Railways website (IRCTC), station counters, or agents.
  • Advance booking is recommended, especially for AC coaches.

Bus Services

Badambadi Bus Depot in Cuttack serves as a central hub for inter-city and inter-state buses, presenting various operators and types.

Operators & Booking

  • OSRTC (Odisha State Road Transport Corporation) operates a wide network.
  • Private operators link to destinations in Odisha and neighboring states.
  • Purchase tickets at bus stands or through online platforms like RedBus.

Self-Drive Considerations

Car rental options, especially self-drive, are limited. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a requirement.

Driving Requirements

Road Conditions and Safety

Road conditions vary significantly. Indian traffic is often chaotic. Defensive driving is important.

Driving Environment

  • Highways are generally in good condition; city roads can be congested/poor.
  • Traffic includes a mix of vehicles, pedestrians, and animals.
  • GPS apps like Google Maps are highly recommended for navigation.

Night Driving Hazards

  • Night driving is not generally recommended due to poor lighting.
  • Unlit cars and stray animals pose risks.
  • Remain alert for pedestrians and two-wheelers on roads.
  • Be mindful of unmarked speed breakers and potholes.
  • Always prioritize safety and drive defensively.
  • Follow traffic in the town rules, even if they appear loosely enforced.

Sea/River Arrivals

Sea & River Access

Sea or river arrivals are not a standard mode of transportation for tourists reaching Cuttack, as it is a city not on the coast.

Ferry Services and Cruise Ports

  • Not applicable for Cuttack, an inland city.
  • The nearest major port is Paradip, a commercial port, not for riders.
  • No regular passenger ferry or cruise services to Cuttack.

Local Waterways

Few local river transportation may exist on the Mahanadi River, but these are not for large-scale arrivals.

River Transportation Options

  • Small vessels for local crossings or specific temple visits on river islands.
  • Mainly for local communities along with certain leisure activities.
  • Not a main mode for arrival or departure from the destination.

Immigration Procedures

Not applicable for Cuttack, as there are no international seaports for passenger entry.

Land Connections

Not applicable for Cuttack, as sea/river arrivals are not main transport for tourists.

Maritime Travel

Cuttack is not a coastal city; maritime travel is not a tourist arrival option.

Departure Information

Departure Formalities

No specific departure tax or exit fee applies upon leaving India by air or land; these costs are typically included in your airfare.

Exit Costs

  • No direct departure tax for India.
  • Costs usually integrated into airfare.
  • Applies for both air and land exits.

Timely Departure

Plan your arrival time at the airport or station to permit for check-in and security procedures.

Timing Recommendations

  • Airport (BBI): 2-3 hours domestic, 3-4 hours international.
  • Train/Bus: 30-60 minutes before departure.
  • Provides ample time for procedures and boarding.

Departure Point Amenities

BBI Airport

Offers lounges, food outlets, shops, ATMs, and restrooms for departing travelers.

Cuttack Railway Station

Provides waiting rooms, basic food stalls, and restroom facilities.

Badambadi Bus Stand

Basic facilities and food stalls for bus passengers.

Smooth Departure Advisory

Allocate sufficient time for your departure from Cuttack, considering traffic and airport/station procedures.