About Folklore Museum
The Folklore Museum, opened in 1968 in Mysuru, is an amazing opportunity to learn about Karnataka's rich cultural history, making it one of the best places to visit in Mysore. It is located in the historic Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion on the University of Mysore's Manasagangotri campus. The museum houses more than 6,500 artefacts that provide a deep look at the state's varied folk traditions.
Visitors can browse a large collection that includes colourful Yakshagana and Kathakali costumes, intricately crafted masks, and traditional musical instruments such as the Kinnari and Tamburi. It also houses rare ceremonial items like the rare Hanuman crown from Kugala Balli village. The museum also has things from everyday life in the countryside, like farming tools, kitchen utensils, and shadow puppets used in stories.
In addition to static displays, the museum frequently hosts cultural events and workshops that offer visitors a glimpse into Karnataka's rich folklore, providing a comprehensive educational and cultural experience.
Folklore Museum Highlights
• Step into the Folklore Museum, housed in the majestic Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion, an extraordinary repository of Karnataka’s vibrant living traditions.
• Marvel at over 6,500 unique artefacts, including shadow puppets and ritual masks, to traditional musical instruments and tribal costumes.
• Explore the three themed wings, Folklife, Folk Art, and Folklore Literature, each capturing a different dimension of Karnataka’s culture.
How To Reach Folklore Museum
By car/taxi: The Folklore Museum is about 4 km from the Mysore city centre, via Ramavilas Rd. It will take you around 10 minutes to get there.
Best Time To Visit Folklore Museum
Peak Season (October to February):
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather, moderate temperature, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C.
- Things to Do: Explore the exhibitions, appreciate the architecture
Moderate Season (March to May):
- Weather Insights: Hot and humid, with higher temperatures, ranging from 21°C to 36°C
- Things to do: Explore museums, sightseeing
Low Season (June to September):
- Weather Insights: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall and high humidity, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C
- Things to do: Enjoy the lush nature, appreciate the outdoor complex
Folklore Museum Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes, as exploring the exhibits and outdoor areas can take a few hours.
- Carry water and other snacks, especially on warm days, if you are planning to stay for longer hours.
- Check the show timings in advance to avoid long waits, especially during weekends and holidays when it can get crowded.
- Ask for permission from the authorities before taking any pictures and making videos inside the science centre and planetarium.
- Allocate at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the exhibits, attend shows, and enjoy the interactive displays.
Explore Yakshagana and Folk Dance Costumes
You can see a beautiful collection of traditional costumes from Yakshagana, Kathakali, Theyyam, and Bhootha Aradhane. These vividly coloured and intricately made clothes show how dramatic South Indian folk theatre can be. Their complex designs and historical importance give us a better understanding of Karnataka's performing arts and storytelling traditions.
View the Rare Hanuman Crown from Kugala Balli
One of the museum's most important possessions is a ceremonial Hanuman crown from the village of Kugala Balli. This rare object is very important in rituals and shows how spiritually artistic the people of rural Karnataka are. People who like devotional art forms should see it because of how well it was made and how it fits into its culture.
Discover Traditional Musical Instruments
Admire at a wide range of interesting native musical instruments, such as the Kinnari, Tamburi, Nagaswaram, and folk drums. A lot of these are still used in dances and ceremonies in the country. Their unique shapes and sounds show how diverse Karnataka's folk music and oral traditions are.
Attend Folk Art Workshops and Events
The museum occasionally hosts folk art workshops, live performances, and academic talks about Karnataka's traditional art forms. These events let people talk to artists, learn about lost traditions, and take part in hands-on cultural activities, which makes the museum visit much more immersive.
Tourism Board Alliances
Folklore Museum FAQs
What is the Folklore Museum in Mysore known for?
The Folklore Museum in Mysore is renowned for its extensive collection of over 6,500 artefacts representing Karnataka’s rich folk traditions. It showcases items related to rural life, traditional music, dance, ritual objects, and craftsmanship, making it one of the most detailed repositories of India’s diverse and vibrant folk culture and performing arts.
Where is the Folklore Museum located?
The museum is housed in the historic Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion, situated within the University of Mysore’s Manasagangotri campus. Located around 3 to 5 kilometres from Mysore Junction railway station, it is easily reachable via local transport like buses, taxis, or auto-rickshaws. Its serene campus setting adds to the overall cultural experience.
Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography inside the Folklore Museum is generally restricted to protect delicate exhibits and maintain conservation standards. Visitors are advised to check at the entrance or reception for the latest rules. In some cases, special permission may be granted for academic or documentation purposes, but casual photography is usually discouraged.
