Located in the heart of the city, Netaji Museum Cuttack takes you through the journey of one of India’s iconic freedom fighters—Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The house where Netaji was born is converted into a memorial endowed with lush gardens and flowers. This popular museum in Cuttack is divided into sections related to his birth, early upbringing and later exploits, both as a Congress leader and as the leader of the Indian National Army. This historical museum in Cuttack displays the life of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and gives insight related to the freedom struggle.
Quick Details About Netaji Museum Cuttack
Elevation: 36 metres above sea level
Netaji Museum Cuttack Timings: 10 AM to 4.30 PM (closed on Monday)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Where To Stay: Shree Jagannath Inn, Hotel Sagar, Hotel Grand Residency, Hotel Bensen
Where To Eat: Barabati Restaurant, Golden Spoon, Kruti Coffee, Oberoi Bakers & Cafe, Dosa Lounge
Location
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Situated at Oriya Bazaar Colony in Cuttack, the Netaji Museum takes us through the Indian freedom struggle while depicting the life of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. This famous museum is about 4.5 km from the Cuttack Railway Station. You can also fly to the Bhubaneswar Airport; as the museum is just 29.2 km away. You can also use taxis, buses, or trains to reach the Netaji Museum address.
How To Reach
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By Air: The nearest airport to Netaji Museum is the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneshwar. Once you get there, you can take any local transport to reach the destination.
By Road: The place is well-connected with all other districts of Odisha like Bhubaneswar, Dhenkanal, etc by road, so anyone can easily reach this place. The nearest bus is Badamba Bus stop just 2.5 km away from the museum. You can also opt for a taxi ride to get to the attraction.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the museum is the Cuttack Junction Railway Station. Once you reach there, take a taxi or a bus to get to the attraction.
Things To Do In Netaji Museum Cuttack
As you reach the attraction, you can indulge in a few activities there to make your tour more interesting.
1. Revisit The History
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The Netaji Museum Cuttack, Odisha retains important historical artefacts, documents, and photographs that represent the deep connection to the revolutionary spirit of Bose and his role in shaping India’s battle for independence. It gives an insight into the rich legacy of one of India’s most influential leaders who, after forming the Indian National Army (INA), challenged British colonial rule.
2. Shop For Souvenirs
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You can also explore the souvenir shop at the museum that continues to reflect the legacy of Subhas Chandra Bose. Books, postcards, historical artefact replicas, and more mundane keepsakes and mementoes commemorating Bose’s life as well as his contribution to Indian independence. It is an ideal place from where a piece of history can be taken home to honour the memory of the legendary freedom fighter.
Places To Visit Around Netaji Museum Cuttack
Cuttack, Odisha is a treasure trove of history and vibrant culture. From the massive Barabati Fort to the bustling bazaars, there is a lot to explore around this museum.
1. Anshupa Lake
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Near to Athagarh, the serene and beautiful Ansupa Lake is a haven for many migratory birds in winter, which is an absolute delight for bird lovers as well as nature enthusiasts. The peaceful water spread of this horseshoe-shaped lake and the dense greenery around makes it the perfect getaway.
Things To Do: Bird watching, boating, fishing
2. Singhanath Temple
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Singhanath Mandir at Cuttack is a unique temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped by Lord Narasimha, a form of Vishnu as described in the Puranas. Dating back to the 9th century AD, this temple is very ancient in Panchayatana style since it had five shrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesh, Surya, and Mahishamardini. This temple dates back to the early 9th century AD and belongs to Pancharatha Deula which represents the primitive development of architecture in Kalinga.
Things To Do: Celebrate festivals like Maha Shivratri, Makar Sankranti, Dussehra, and Kartik Purnima
3. Kataka Chandi Temple
Photo: ଆଶୁତୋଷ କର / Wikimedia Commons
Situated near the Mahanadi River, Kataka Chandi Temple is dedicated to Devi Chandi as the presiding deity of the city. Prominent for its elaborate Durga Puja celebrations lasting 16 days from Ashwina Krishna Ashtami to Vijayadashami, Maa Kataka Chandi is revered as the “Living Goddess” of Cuttack. Legend has it that the royal priest, Sri Hansa Panda, discovered the goddess when a divine vision led him to dig up the goddess from a field, where, it was said, clumps of red sindura started coming out.
Things To Do: Annual Durga and Kali puja
4. Choudhary Bazaar
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Chariot Filigree is that craft that, with its delicate designs and superb workmanship, finds no match. In Cuttack, the quintessential silver filigree work, locally known as ‘Tarakasi’ has been a hallmark of meticulous artisanship. The craft originated in Persia during the 15th century and flourished during the Mughal period.
Things To Do: Shop for filigree jewellery or custom made souvenirs
5. Bali Yatra
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The annual Bali Yatra Fair in Cuttack is held from Kartik Purnima. It spans the Killa Fort grounds to the Mahanadi River sandbanks. Thousands of stalls sell local and international merchandise, but Pallishree Mela and Gandhi Silpa Bazaar take centre stage for showcasing the intrinsic handicrafts. There are cultural performances by local and international artists during this seven-day festival.
Things To Do: Shopping, cultural performances, folk dances, local food and thrilling activities
Other Factors To Consider
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Here are a few things that if taken into consideration can transform your journey into a beautiful one..
Tips For Travellers
- Don’t miss the cultural events and speeches arranged on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birthday on 23rd of January.
- Cuttack has to be visited for the pleasing weather from October to March.
- If you are planning to visit during festival time, you must try to book your accommodation in advance.
- You must try the local street food. Dahi Bara Aloo Dum is a must-try local delicacy. Don’t forget to try the famous sweet Chhena Podaz
- The range of accommodation in Cuttack caters to all budgets, and budgets vary widely. Again, if you are planning festival time, it would be apt to book in advance.
Rich historical exhibits, personal artefacts, and interactive displays make Netaji Museum, Cuttack, one of the best museums in the region. It is a testimony to the indomitable spirit and patriotism of the great leader, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. So, plan your visit to Cuttack today with TripXL to experience his history firsthand, and walk in a legend’s footsteps.
Cover Photo: Subhashish Panigrahi / Wikimedia Commons