The museum features over 25 restored heritage structures, some dating back several centuries.
Founder Vijaynath Shenoy spent decades identifying threatened heritage homes and coordinating their meticulous dismantling and transport.
The 'Kunjur Chowkimane' house within the village was relocated from a village in Udupi district after being scheduled for demolition.
Structures are rebuilt using the exact original joinery techniques, intentionally avoiding modern adhesives or concrete reinforcements.
The museum includes a dedicated section for rare cultural artifacts, including traditional lamps, locks, and metalware.
Each reconstructed home maintains its original ritualistic orientation, reflecting the ancient Vastu Shastra principles of the original owners.
Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village Museum is an open-air museum in Manipal that preserves traditional architectural styles of coastal Karnataka by relocating and reconstructing historic houses on-site. The site features a collection of rescued structures, including traditional wooden houses, palaces, and shrines, salvaged from various parts of the state. Founded by Vijaynath Shenoy, the museum aims to prevent the destruction of regional heritage architecture caused by rapid urbanization. The village encompasses a sprawling complex where visitors walk through authentic indoor spaces representing different social and cultural contexts. Each reconstructed building is curated with original artifacts, household items, and period-appropriate furniture. The museum serves as a documented repository of the vernacular architectural evolution in the Tulu Nadu region. It functions as a living laboratory for researchers and students of architecture and anthropology.
The central courtyard of the traditional 'Chowkimane' house, which provides excellent natural lighting and architectural symmetry.
Wear comfortable, slip-on walking shoes, as you will frequently remove them to enter the wooden structures.
Bring a handheld fan or water bottle, as the outdoor path between structures can get quite humid.
Hire an official guide if available to understand the specific social history behind the individual houses.
Avoid visiting during the height of the monsoon season, as the outdoor paths can become muddy and slippery.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain silence inside the heritage houses, refrain from touching delicate artifacts, and ensure you remove your footwear before entering any wooden residence.
