Mysore Tourism
car museum mysore
Payana Car Museum Mysore
If you love cars, history, engineering, photography, or simply want a unique experience near Mysuru, the Payana Car Museum is one of Karnataka's newest and most impressive attractions. Unlike traditional museums where vehicles are simply parked behind ropes, Payana tells the story of how automobiles changed the world.
What does "Payana" mean?
In Kannada, "Payana" (ಪಯಣ) means Journey.
The name perfectly represents the museum's purpose - taking visitors on a journey through the evolution of transportation, old technology, craftsmanship, and history.
Preserving History on Wheels: The Heart Behind Payana
- Payana Car Museum is more than just a collection of pristine automobiles—it is the culmination of a 50-year passion project by Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, the Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala.
- For over five decades, Dr. Heggade has quietly rescued, restored, and preserved vintage cars that were on the brink of fading into history. Among the collection are forgotten classics saved from decades of abandonment, vehicles once driven by royalty and world-renowned scientists, and machines painstakingly brought back to life from rust and neglect.
- To Dr. Heggade, these aren't just mechanical artifacts; they are living time capsules. Each car carries the memories, spirit, and stories of the people and eras it survived. Payana was created with a single mission: to ensure this rich heritage remains accessible to future generations before it’s lost forever.
Where is it located?
Address
Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway (NH-275), Brahmapura, Srirangapatna, Mandya District, Karnataka – 571477
It is located:
- Around 14 km from Mysore Palace
- Around 9 km from Mysuru city
- Around 2 hours from Bengaluru
- Right beside the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway, making it an excellent stop during a road trip.
Opening Hours
Every day
9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Ticket Price
Current entry fee:
₹75 per person according to the museum's official website.
Parking
Large parking area available.
Suitable for:
- Cars
- SUVs
- Motorcycles
- Tourist buses
Museum Architecture
One of the first things you'll notice is the building itself.
The front façade is designed to resemble a giant automobile tyre, making it instantly recognizable from the highway. The architecture symbolizes movement and the journey of automobiles through time.
What You'll See Inside
The museum houses around 69 carefully restored vehicles, covering nearly a century of automotive history.
You'll find classics from brands including:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Austin
- Fiat
- Morris
- Citroën
- Hindustan Motors
- Willys
- Daimler
- Studebaker
- Toyota
Many exhibits include QR codes that let visitors learn more about each vehicle's history, engineering, and restoration.
Famous Vehicles
Some of the museum's biggest attractions include:
Maharaja of Mysore's Daimler DE 36
A royal luxury automobile once associated with the Mysore royal family.
Sir C. V. Raman's Studebaker Champion
One of the museum's most historically significant exhibits, connected to Nobel Prize-winning physicist Sir C. V. Raman.
Dr. Vishnuvardhan's Car
Fans of Kannada cinema enjoy seeing the vehicle once owned by legendary actor Dr. Vishnuvardhan.
Dr. Veerendra Heggade's Student Car
Near the entrance is the Standard Herald that Dr. Heggade himself drove during his college days.
Restoration Workshop
Unlike many museums, Payana also features an active restoration facility.
Visitors can learn about:
- Engine rebuilding
- Body restoration
- Metal work
- Painting
- Mechanical preservation
The goal is not only to display vintage cars but also to preserve the skills required to maintain them.
Interactive Experience
The museum isn't just a static display.
Features include:
- QR-code guided information
- Educational exhibits
- Guided tours
- Special automotive events
- Vintage car gatherings
- Heritage programs
- Photography opportunities
Food Court / Restaurant
Yes.
A vegetarian restaurant/cafeteria is available within the museum premises, making it convenient for families and road-trip visitors to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or refreshments without leaving the site.
Other Facilities
Visitors can also expect:
- Clean restrooms
- Drinking water
- Wheelchair-friendly access
- Wide ramps
- Spacious galleries
- Open-air theatre
- Family-friendly environment
Photography
The museum is highly photogenic, with:
- Bright, spacious galleries
- Vintage cars displayed in themed settings
- Distinctive tyre-shaped architecture
- Wide walkways ideal for photography
It's a favorite stop for photographers, automotive enthusiasts, and social media creators.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time is:
- Weekdays: Less crowded and easier to explore.
- Morning (9–11 AM): Fresh lighting and fewer visitors.
- Late afternoon (4–6 PM): Comfortable weather if you're combining it with other attractions.
Nearby Attractions
After visiting Payana, you can also explore:
- Mysore Palace
- Srirangapatna
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
- Brindavan Gardens
These attractions can comfortably fit into a one-day itinerary.
Visitor Tips
- Allocate 1.5–2 hours for the museum.
- Carry a fully charged phone or camera.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Avoid touching the exhibits.
- Read the QR-code stories to better appreciate each vehicle.
- Visit the restaurant before continuing your journey.
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