As a lifelong car enthusiast and avid traveler, I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that combine my passions. Recently, I stumbled upon a hidden gem that left me in awe – the Payana Car Museum Mysore. Let me take you on a virtual tour of this automotive wonderland and share why it should be on every traveler’s itinerary when visiting Mysore.
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What is Payana Car Museum, Mysore?
Payana Car Museum, whose name translates to “journey” in Kannada, is a testament to the rich legacy of automobiles. Spread across 10 acres in Naguvinahalli, Srirangapatna taluk, just 12 km before Mysuru, this museum is the brainchild of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, the revered Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala.
As I approached the museum, I was immediately struck by its unique architecture – an innovative faรงade shaped like a pneumatic tire. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot before you even step inside!
When to Visit and Timings
The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, making it convenient for both early birds and night owls. I’d recommend visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
If you’re planning a trip from Bangalore, the museum is about 133 km away. I suggest booking a reliable cab service like Savaari for a comfortable journey. This way, you can sit back, relax, and build up the anticipation for your automotive adventure.
Payana Car Museum Entry Fee
| Ticket Type | Entry Fee |
| Children Above 12 years Old | Rs 50 |
| Adults | Rs 50 |
| Children Below 12 years old | Free |
| Current and Ex-Servicemen | Free |
What to Expect
1. A Walk Through Automotive History
As soon as I stepped onto the first floor, I was transported back in time. The museum houses an impressive collection of vintage cars from the year of 1919 onwards. From old Fords and Chevys to General Motors and limousines, each vehicle tells a unique story of craftsmanship and innovation.
One of the first cars that caught my eye was a Herald car used by Dr. Veerendra Heggade himself. Did you know that the Standard Herald, which debuted in London’s Royal Albert Hall in 1959, cost a mere Rs 12,500 in 1962? It’s fascinating to see how car prices have evolved over the decades!
Although the car museum is mainly focused on cars, you will surely see few its and bits of variety of vehicles such as jeeps from II World War, minibuses, trucks, and even vans. Oh, and don’t forget to also check out the small collection of vintage bikes and scooters that will evoke a rare nostalgia.
2. Celebrity Cars and Royal Connections
The museum doesn’t just showcase ordinary vintage cars; it also houses vehicles with celebrity and royal connections. I was thrilled to see the 1929 Studebaker President, famously used by Mahatma Gandhi during his visits to Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Another highlight was the 1947 Studebaker Champion, once used by Nobel Prize-winning physicist Sir C.V. Raman. For movie buffs, there’s the 1965 Chevrolet Impala, an American classic that has graced many films. I couldn’t help but hum “Yeh Dil Na Hota Bechara” from the Hindi blockbuster Jewel Thief (1967), remembering the iconic scene with Dev Anand on an Impala’s bonnet.
The royal touch comes from the 1949 Daimler DE 36, a gift from HH Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar IV, the Maharaja of Mysore. It was the company’s largest and most expensive car of its time, with only the Rolls Royce Phantom as its competitor.
3. From Luxury to Everyday: The Ground Floor Exhibition
While the first floor dazzled me with luxury and vintage cars, the ground floor offered a nostalgic trip through more recent automotive history. Here, I found vehicles that were once a common sight on Indian roads – from lorries and Maruti 800s to Tempo Travellers and even bullock carts.
It was a treat to see Indian cars like the Standard 2000, Contessa, Hindustan Landmaster, Ambassador, Maruti Zen, Fiat Palio, and the electric Reva. These cars document the progress of the automobile industry in India and brought back fond memories of my childhood.
The museum doesn’t stop at cars. I was surprised to see Mumbai’s iconic double-decker bus and the now-obsolete ‘kaali-peeli’ taxis. There’s even a steam-powered road roller on display!
4. Beyond Cars: The Manjusha Museum
Just when I thought I had seen it all, I discovered the Manjusha Museum housed in the same building. This section is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, from pinhole cameras to gramophones, typewriters to an 1890 printing press.
I was particularly fascinated by the Biso Kallu, an ancient grinding stone, and the display of the first-ever telephone model. The museum also houses a collection of coins, banknotes, stamps, guns, swords, and beautiful Mysore paintings.
Tips for Visitors
- Entry Fee: The museum charges a nominal entry fee of 50 rupees for adults. Children under 7 can enter for free.
- Time Required: I’d recommend setting aside at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. If you’re a real car enthusiast or history buff, you might want to spend half a day here.
- Photography: The museum is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the timeless elegance of these vintage vehicles.
- Accessibility: The museum is thoughtfully designed with ramps to all levels, making it accessible for people with physical disabilities.
- Climate: While the museum isn’t air-conditioned, large ceiling fans provide sufficient cooling. However, if you’re visiting during summer, it’s best to go during morning or evening hours.
- Food and Refreshments: There’s a food court which is purely vegetarian on the premises where you can grab a quick bite or refreshments.
Beyond the Museum: Nearby Attractions
After my visit to the Payana Car Museum, I decided to explore some nearby attractions. Here are a few I’d recommend:
- Varuna Lake: Perfect for adventure enthusiasts, offering water sports like jetskiing and kayaking.
- Melody World Wax Museum: A unique blend of music and art, featuring life-size wax statues with various musical instruments.
- Shuka Vana: A rehabilitation center home to around 2000 birds, especially parrots. A must-visit for bird and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Sand Museum Mysore: Showcasing impressive sand sculptures, including exhibits of the laughing Buddha and everyday city life.
- Kukkarahalli Lake: Ideal for nature lovers, offering beautiful sunrise and sunset views, and great for bird watching.
Final Thoughts
My visit to the Payana Car Museum was more than just a trip down memory lane; it was an educational journey through the evolution of automobiles. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique experience in Mysore, this museum offers something for everyone.
The museum’s commitment to preserving automotive heritage while making it accessible and engaging for all ages is truly commendable. It’s not just about displaying old cars; it’s about telling the story of human innovation and progress through the lens of automobiles.
As I left the museum, I felt a renewed appreciation for the vehicles that have shaped our world. The Payana Car Museum is more than just a collection of cars; it’s a celebration of human ingenuity and a bridge between our past and future. So, the next time you’re in Mysore, make sure to set aside time for this incredible journey through automotive history. Trust me, it’s a ride you won’t forget!
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