On the outskirts of Mamallapuram lies the DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, a one-of-its-kind rarity in India. The museum was set up in 1996 for the promotion of the rich cultural heritage of South India, especially its art and crafts forms, through regular exhibitions, hands-on classes for the visitors, workshops on folk performances and textiles and performances by budding artists, dancers, sculptors, etc. Tourists can visit the crafts bazaar where artisans, craftsmen and NGOs from all over India hold beautiful exhibitions. DakshinaChitra is an amalgamation of art, craft, lifestyle, culture, architecture and performing arts of South India. It has 18 historic houses with exhibitions in each one. Tourists should also look out for the striking houses that are a treat for architecture buffs.