DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum Chennai – Timings, Tickets, Things to See & Tips
One of the few living museums in the world and the only one in India showcasing original centuries-old homes from the four southern states
Overview
Opened in 1996, DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum Chennai combines authentic architecture, living crafts, and cultural experiences in a way very few Museums in India do.
Many of the museum’s 18 traditional houses were actual centuries-old homes from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Most of the traditional houses were carefully dismantled at their original locations, transported, and reconstructed using the same materials and traditional craftsmen.
Instead of simply displaying artifacts in glass cases, visitors can watch potters, weavers, glass blowers, leather puppet makers, and other artisans practicing their crafts.
DakshinaChitra recreates how ordinary South Indians lived—merchant homes, Brahmin houses, potters’ homes, weavers’ houses, agricultural homes, and Syrian Christian houses—complete with period furniture, utensils, and décor.
The museum hosts a puppet show every weekend and cultural performances such as folk dances on special occassions and festival days (such as Onam, Diwali, Gandhi Jayanthi, Christmas, etc.)
One can actively participate in pottery making, paper painting, basket making and other traditional activities for extra charges.
There are also numerous stalls selling traditional good quality (albeit a bit expensive) handcrafts within the museum grounds.
Tickets and Timings
Timings:
| Day Type | Timing |
|---|---|
| Weekday | 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM |
| Weekend | 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM |
Closed Days: Tuesdays, Diwali Day
Ticket Prices*:
| Age Group | Price |
|---|---|
| Indian Adults | ₹175 – ₹200 |
| Indian Children | ₹100 |
| Foreign Adults | ₹350 |
| Foreign Children | ₹200 |
| Below 5 Years | Free |
Parking: Paid Parking Available
* Check the Museum’s website for details on rates related to professional photography, photoshoots and film shoots.
Know Before You Go
The museum can be covered in 2-4 hours. Plan to spend at least half a day if you are looking to also participate in some of the activities.
It is recommended to visit the museum during the weekends if possible to also enjoy the puppet show and other performances during your visit.
The houses on display are not air conditioned. Hence, it is recommended to visit the museum during comfortable weather conditions.
The museum grounds are a very popular spot for individual and couple photoshoots. You might come across these photoshoots during your visit.
If you are planning to book a photoshoot or a film shoot, get complete clarity on the pricing structure and other pertinent details such as location of the dress changing rooms before booking to avoid surprises.
Do note that, for film shoots and photoshoots, you will only be able to book for a specific number of hours (which generally also strictly includes time taken for you to enter the grounds, change your dress and exit the grounds). Extending the shoot even by a few minutes could lead to significant additional charges being incurred.
Food, Snacks and Drinks are available. However, prices inside the museum grounds could be a bit expensive. Do note that there are multiple good restaurants close to the museum such as the Geetham Veg restaurant.
Location
Muthukadu, ECR
