Where the old rural South India comes to life

Along the shores of the Bay of Bengal, in Muttukadu, a tranquil hamlet twenty-five kilometres south of bustling Chennai, where the palm trees sway gently in the salt-kissed breeze, lies the living DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, a sanctuary of cultural immersion.

Conceived by the Madras Craft Foundation to showcase, celebrate, and safeguard the diverse arts, architecture, crafts, and lifestyles of South India, the DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum beckons you to embark on a journey through time.

Its collection comprises over 4000 artefacts, over 14000 books, and over one lakh pictures! What sets DakshinaChitra apart is its dedication to authenticity. Each of the 18 reconstructed historical houses within its embrace was once slated for demolition by its original owners. Saved from oblivion, these architectural gems in the regional vernacular style were dismantled, transported, and meticulously reconstructed by skilled artisans, known as Stapathis, of the same regions.

Be a witness as history comes alive in the intricate carvings of wooden beams, the weathered textures of ancient walls, and the echoes of forgotten voices that linger in every corner.

From the bustling streetscapes of yesteryears to the tranquil courtyards of ancestral homes, DakshinaChitra invites you to explore, reflect, and have a deep appreciation for the cultural richness of South India.

Mindfully designed, carefully maintained

The complex serves as a convergence point for antiquated structures sourced from various locations, offering you a glimpse into the vernacular architecture and communal lifestyles prevalent in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala.

Divided into distinct zones dedicated to each region, the architecture here shies away from ostentation, instead embodying the essence of urban middle-class traditions. It eschews grandiosity and spectacle, opting instead for a more subdued yet equally captivating portrayal of traditional living spaces to showcase a holistic depiction of the everyday life of southern India's diverse communities.

Step into the Tamil Nadu section, offering glimpses into the lives of ancient merchants, Brahmins, silk weavers, agriculturists, and potters. Each dwelling here serves as a portal to another era.

Venture further into the Kerala quarter, where awaits the simplicity of the Syrian Christian house, the Calicut house's rustic charm, and the Hindu abode's timeless elegance. And amidst them stands the granary, a silent sentinel of abundance and prosperity.

Continue your journey into the section devoted to Karnataka, where the Chikmagalur house and the house of Ilkal weavers capture the beautiful spirit of rural life.

And finally, cross over into Andhra Pradesh, where the Coastal and Ikat weavers' houses stand as monuments to the region's vibrant artisanal heritage.

Show the museums insides

At DakshinaChitra, a treasure trove of artefacts and relics from the daily lives of southern India also awaits your discovery. The collection boasts timeless treasures, including over 3000 objects, 900 textiles, and 70 contemporary works.

Its library is brimming with books and journals dedicated to the region's arts, crafts, anthropology, and folklore. It's also home to tonnes of photographs, DVDs, CDs, and tapes, ensuring that the heritage of South India is preserved for generations to come.

Through a diverse range of special programs, you can witness folk performing arts, traditional dances, and the intricate craftsmanship of artisans. Moreover, the museum serves as a hub for education and skill development, hosting workshops and training sessions to preserve and promote traditional crafts.

Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

Closed on Tuesday

What's next?

In the tranquil embrace of Muttukadu's serene backwaters, embark on a voyage of tranquillity, guided by the rhythmic strokes of a boat's oar or the silent glide of a kayak. Covelong Beach beckons with its sandy shores, or there is MGM Dizzee World for thrilling rides and water slides.

At the DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, time stands still as you wander through the corridors of history. Amongst the artefacts and exhibits, see how memories of bygone eras mingle with the present.