The DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum was established in 1996 by Madras Craft Foundation as a museum of art, architecture, lifestyles, crafts and performing arts of South India. There are 18 historical houses with displays, art and craft through which DakshinaChitra promotes the rich cultural heritage of South India.

The museum is open from 10am to 6 pm during weekdays and from 10am to 7pm in the weekends. It is closed on Tuesday and on Diwali day.