Mini Bollywood of Karjat..!
Hello..!
I’m no hardcore Bollywood fan, but I can’t resist striking a pose when I stumble upon a real movie set. The fun part? This cinematic escape is just around 50 km from Thane, tucked away in the quiet charm of Karjat.
You may have heard of Nitin Desai Film Studio yes, the famous ND Studios (also known as ND Film World). It’s a cinematic wonderland, especially for movie lovers and curious travelers alike.
Spread across nearly 52 acres, the property is home to small and large sets from some of Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters. You’ll spot scenes from Kaun Banega Crorepati, Jodhaa Akbar, Lagaan, Bajirao Mastani, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Slumdog Millionaire, and many more. It truly feels like walking through the imagination of a director—except it’s real.
Walk Through Film History
Wander through sun-drenched streets, royal palace courtyards, and regal halls that once hosted actors in grand period dramas. You can even strike a pose in the “Aayna Mahal” (Hall of Mirrors), where you’ll feel like royalty, if only for a moment.
With over 4,000 films and TV shows shot here, every corner has a story to tell. It’s an immersive experience that blurs the line between reality and reel-life.
Visitor Tips to Enhance Your Experience
💸 Entry Fee: Around ₹500 per adult for a self-guided tour. Paid guided tours are available, but may not always be worth it due to limited set maintenance.
🚻 Facilities: Clean restrooms near the ticket counter, wheelchair support for seniors/differently-abled visitors, and ample parking inside.
👟 Come Prepared: Wear comfortable shoes. The studio is huge—expect lots of walking. Also, carry water, light snacks, and maybe a cap or hat for sun protection.
📸 Photogenic Spot: This is Bollywood meets travel photography heaven. From vintage streets to grand halls, you’ll find plenty of Insta-worthy backdrops.
Why It’s Worth the Detour?
From the majestic sets of Bajirao Mastani to the nostalgic vibes of old Mumbai streets, ND Studios offers a bite-sized journey through Indian cinema—all in under three hours. Whether you’re a film buff, a casual traveler, or just tagging along, there’s something surreal about seeing movie magic come to life around you.
A Practical Itinerary Suggestion
Plan a half- or full-day visit as part of a larger Karjat getaway. You can easily pair this with nearby attractions like:
- 🏞 Bhivpuri Waterfall – Great for a morning trek or monsoon visit
- 🕉 Kondana Caves – Ancient Buddhist caves tucked in greenery
- 🏯 Kothaligad Fort (Peth Fort) – A short but rewarding trek
- 🌄 Ulhas Valley – Ideal for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts
Each offers a great blend of nature, history, and adventure to balance out your cinematic tour.
ND Studios in Karjat isn’t just a movie set—it’s a walkable slice of Bollywood history. It lets you step into India’s cinematic past and present with a camera in one hand and curiosity in the other.
Whether you’re reenacting an iconic scene, exploring with friends, or just soaking in the magic, this is one offbeat destination worth adding to your travel list.
🗓️ Itinerary: A Day Trip from Thane to ND Studio, Karjat
Getting There: Thane → ND Studio
- Distance: ~60–70 km
- Travel Time: Approx. 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on traffic and route)
- Time to Explore: 2–3 hours
- Breakfast Stop (En Route) : Shree Dutta Snacks (Panvel Bypass)
- Lunch Options in Karjat : Gharandaj Misal
Make sure to visit:
- Aayna Mahal (mirror palace)
- Vintage street set
- Palace courtyards from Jodhaa Akbar
- Any seasonal shooting sets open to public
📸 Don’t forget your camera or phone—this place is a visual treat!
