| Place | Muthukadu |
|---|---|
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Virtual Museum | No |
| Year of Establishment | 1996 |
| Museum Type | Living History / Heritage / Cultural |
| National Importance Museum | Yes |
| Address | DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, SH 49, Muthukadu, Tamil Nadu 603112 |
| Visiting Time | 10:00 AM – 06:00 PM (Monday, Wednesday to Friday) 10:00 AM – 07:00 PM (Saturday & Sunday) Closed on Tuesdays. |
| Entry Fee | ₹175 (Indians) ₹350 (Foreign Nationals) Discounts available for students and children. |
Opened to the public in 1996, DakshinaChitra (meaning "a picture of the south") features a collection of 18 authentic historical houses from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. These houses were purchased, dismantled, and painstakingly reconstructed by master craftsmen.
The museum holds a significant collection of vernacular architecture, traditional textiles, folk arts, and daily-use objects. It also features galleries dedicated to the visual arts and crafts of the four southern states.
Vernacular Architecture Gallery: Includes the Syrian Christian House from Kerala (19th century), a Brahmin House from Kumbakonam (1850), and an llkal Weaver's House from Karnataka. Each structure is furnished to reflect the authentic lifestyle of its original period.
| Video URL | https://youtu.be/RqsUw8LxTdg |
|---|---|
| Video Courtesy | Dakshinchitra Museum YT Channel |
| Archaeological Survey of India | No |
| Notes | The museum was designed by renowned architect Laurie Baker, emphasizing sustainable and traditional building techniques. It is a "living" museum where artisans are often present to demonstrate traditional skills like weaving and pottery. |
| Artifacts | Chettinad wooden pillars; Traditional Shadow Puppets (Tholu Bommalata); Kanchipuram looms; Antique kitchen utensils and brassware; Ceremonial folk masks. |
| Highly Descriptive | Yes |
| Contact Details |
+91 44 2446 2435 +91 98410 20149 |
| Email ID | dakmcf@gmail.com |