Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum - Muttukadu

Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum, located close to Mahabalipuram shore side, is one of the living history museums in India. Opened to the public in 1996, the museum is built with 18 heritage houses representing the living style of people from south Indian states - Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. They are the actual houses which were demolished with the permission of owners and later brought here to vindicate their originality. It was a project of Madras Craft Foundation, a non Government organisation. The Museum is located overlooking the Bay of Bengal. The museum’s plan concept was developed by architect Laurie Baker, owing to his interest in rural architectural design. Baker's approach included the use of local materials and the adaptation of artisanal production methods suited to the environment.

The museum has 18 heritage houses representing the living styles of people from the states of South India, with contextual exhibitions in every house. It promotes crafts through hands-on activities and workshops for the visitors. Learning based special activities for students and children are organized regularly to help increase their appreciation of the cultural heritage of South India. Each home stands for more than just architecture, the use of the home embodies all the beliefs about life, nature and society that had been acquired through many centuries of existence. The museum has a collection of books and journals pertaining to the arts, crafts, performance, anthropology and folklore of South India, apart from more than thousands of portrayals. A visit to this museum will bring you a glimpse on south Indian culture and all.