Walk through the gates of Manasagangotri campus at 10:15 AM sharp on a weekday morning, and you’ll find the Folklore Museum Mysore already welcoming its first visitors of the day. This remarkable institution, housed in the historic Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion since 1968, displays over 6,500 unique folklore items that tell the story of Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage. The museum charges no entry fee, making it accessible to everyone, though photography inside is strictly prohibited.
Quick Information for Folklore Museum Mysore
Location: Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion, Manasagangotri, University of Mysore Campus
Timings: Monday to Saturday, 10:15 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (No charges)
Contact: University of Mysore – 0821-2419666
Best Time to Visit: October to March, weekday mornings
Average Time Needed: 1.5 to 2 hours
Parking: Available inside university campus near cricket ground – Free
Collections at Folklore Museum Mysore
The museum gallery divides into distinct wings, each showcasing different aspects of Karnataka’s folk culture. The Yakshagana section displays elaborate costumes from both northern and southern Karnataka styles, complete with ceremonial headwear that includes the famous Hanuman crown from Kugala Balli village in North Karnataka. Musical instruments occupy an entire gallery with over 100 folk instruments including wind, percussion, and string varieties used in traditional performances.
The folklife wing presents tools and implements used by farmers, fishermen, blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, and cobblers. Each item comes with minimal labeling, so visitors often need to ask the staff for detailed explanations. The collection includes household items from rural Karnataka dating back to the 19th century, offering glimpses into daily life from over a century ago.
How to Reach Folklore Museum
By City Bus: Take bus numbers 266, 277, 245, 245A, 135, or 130 from City Bus Stand Platform 10. Get down at Manasagangotri stop (fare: 12). Walk 12 minutes from the bus stop.
By Auto: From Mysore Railway Station, auto fare is 70 by meter, though drivers typically ask for 100. The distance is 3.4 kilometers.
By Car: Enter through the University main gate on Bogadi Road. Take left near the cricket ground. Free parking available near the museum.
Unique Exhibits and Displays
The puppet collection stands out with traditional leather shadow puppets from different regions of Karnataka, some dating back 200 years. Large wooden dolls representing kings, queens, saints, and folk deities tower over visitors in the main hall. The museum preserves rare Kathakali costumes from Kerala alongside Karnataka’s own theatrical traditions.
Carved wooden figures from various villages across Karnataka fill multiple rooms. These include ceremonial masks used in village festivals, decorative pieces from temple chariots, and figurines used in folk performances. The variety spans from tiny palm-sized pieces to life-size statues, each telling stories of rural artistic traditions.
Building History and Architecture
Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion, built for Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar’s eldest daughter Princess Jayalakshmi Ammani, now houses this treasure trove. The building itself needs significant restoration – water damage is visible in several rooms, and some sections remain closed due to electrical issues. Despite these challenges, the architectural beauty of the palace with its Indo-Saracenic features adds to the museum experience.
The University of Mysore acquired this palace and 300 acres of surrounding land between 1956-1960 when Kuvempu served as vice-chancellor. One room in the museum, called the Kuvempu room, displays photographs from his life along with personal belongings of various Kannada writers and poets.
Tips for Visiting Folklore Museum Mysore
Visit on weekday mornings to avoid college student crowds. The museum sees fewer visitors between 10:15 AM and noon. Carry a notebook if you’re researching – photography is banned but note-taking is allowed. The staff members, though helpful, speak primarily Kannada, so basic knowledge of the language helps.
- Entry through University campus only – carry ID proof
- No cafeteria inside – eat at University canteen nearby
- Combine with Kukkarahalli Lake walk – just 500 meters away
- Avoid Sundays and public holidays – museum remains closed
Scholar Contributions and Development
P.R. Thippeswamy, the museum’s founding curator, personally collected materials from across Karnataka to build the initial collection. Scholars like D. Javare Gowda, Jeesham Paramashivaiah, and others expanded the collection over decades. The museum continues to receive donations from private collectors, though acquisition of new pieces has slowed considerably in recent years.
The wooden chariot displayed outside was collected by Thippeswamy himself and remains one of the museum’s prized possessions. Writers who donated personal items include poet Kodagina Gowramma, whose collection includes Mysore sandal soap used by Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to her home.
What Most Visitors Miss
The manuscript section on the second floor opens only on request. Ask the security guard to unlock it – this room contains palm leaf manuscripts and old books not displayed elsewhere. The terrace offers views of Chamundi Hills but stays locked unless you specifically request access.
Behind the main building, traditional agricultural equipment lies scattered in the garden area. These pieces, including wooden ploughs and grain storage containers, aren’t part of the formal display but are worth examining for those interested in farming history.
Current Challenges and Future
Water seepage damages artifacts during monsoon months. Several rooms lack proper lighting, making it difficult to view exhibits clearly. The museum needs approximately 2 crore for complete restoration, but funding remains uncertain. Despite these issues, dedicated staff members continue maintaining the collection with limited resources.
Nearby Attractions to Combine
After visiting the folklore museum, walk to Kukkarahalli Lake (500 meters) for bird watching. The university’s Oriental Research Institute stands 1 kilometer away. Crawford Hall, another heritage building, lies within the campus. Plan 3-4 hours to cover all these spots together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is photography allowed inside Folklore Museum Mysore?
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum. Security guards actively enforce this rule. You can photograph the building exterior and garden areas only.
What are the entry charges for the folklore museum?
Entry is completely free for all visitors including foreign tourists. No tickets are issued – simply sign the visitor register at entrance.
Can we visit Folklore Museum on Sundays?
No, the museum remains closed on Sundays and public holidays. It operates only Monday to Saturday from 10:15 AM to 5:00 PM.
How much time is needed to see everything?
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough visit. Quick visits take 45 minutes, but you’ll miss many interesting exhibits. Researchers often spend 3-4 hours.
Is parking available at the museum?
Free parking is available inside the university campus near the cricket ground. Two-wheelers can park closer to the museum building.
Last Updated: January 2025
Next Update: After restoration completion announcement
Visit Kukkarahalli Lake for a peaceful morning walk after exploring the museum. Learn about other attractions within University campus.