About Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion Folklore Museum
Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion Folklore Museum is a heritage museum housed in the Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion on the Manasagangotri campus of the University of Mysore in Mysuru, Karnataka. Built in 1905 for Princess Jayalakshmi Ammani, the mansion exhibits traditional Mysore architecture. It houses one of Karnataka's largest folklore collections, including artifacts, costumes, puppets, and musical instruments representing the state's folk traditions and rural heritage.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a heritage palace building with ornate pillars, carved wooden doors, and spacious halls displaying extensive folklore collections. Expect galleries with folk costumes, masks, leather puppets, dolls, musical instruments, household objects, and ritual artifacts from across Karnataka. The mansion is set within the green University of Mysore campus with gardens and quiet surroundings. Exhibits are arranged thematically across multiple rooms and floors for self-guided viewing.
Key highlights
- 01
Heritage mansion built in 1905 with traditional Mysore architectural features
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One of the largest folklore collections in Karnataka with over 6,500 artifacts
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Extensive display of folk costumes, masks, leather shadow puppets and dolls
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Collection of traditional musical instruments, tools and household objects