Recently, the 72nd Miss World Festival contestants experienced the cinematic magic of Ramoji Film City — and now, you can too!
Tucked away on the outskirts of Hyderabad, India, lies a place where fantasy and film come to life—Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest integrated film studio complex. A marvel of entertainment and cinematic history, it’s a destination that promises far more than just film sets. For tourists and expats across Asia seeking a unique travel experience, Ramoji Film City offers an unforgettable mix of movie magic, cultural richness, and theme park thrills.
A Storied Legacy of Lights, Camera, Action
Founded in 1991 by media tycoon Ramoji Rao, the film city was created with an ambitious vision: to be a one-stop destination for filmmakers to shoot everything from epic battles to romantic song sequences without ever leaving the premises. Spread across a staggering 2,000 acres, Ramoji Film City quickly earned its spot in the Guinness World Records as the largest film studio complex on Earth.
Over the years, it has served as the backdrop for more than 2,500 films in various Indian languages and even international productions. But this isn’t just a space for directors and actors—Ramoji Film City welcomes millions of tourists each year, offering them a behind-the-scenes look into the world of cinema.
What Makes It Special?
Ramoji is far more than a working studio—it’s a self-contained fantasyland. As you wander through its perfectly manicured gardens, ornate palaces, bustling city replicas, and vintage village settings, it’s easy to forget you’re on a film set. The scale is cinematic in every sense.
There are live stunt shows, cultural dance performances, and themed attractions that rival the best amusement parks in Asia. Families can enjoy rides and games at Fundustan, kids can explore fairytale castles, and adults can experience movie-making firsthand at the Action Studio, where visitors become actors, complete with green screens and special effects.
In between attractions, you’ll stumble upon film sets that double as global backdrops—from a Japanese garden to a replica of an old European town. Every corner of Ramoji feels like stepping into a new world.
The Natural Side of Cinema
Ramoji Film City isn’t all glitz and glamour. Nature lovers will appreciate its lush landscape, which includes a butterfly park and an aviary housing exotic birds. The film city’s extensive gardens feature thousands of plant species and offer a serene contrast to the bustling sets and shows.
For those interested in Indian culture, daily performances bring classical dance, folklore, and regional traditions to life—another layer of immersion into the vibrant spirit of the country.
Getting There and Planning Your Visit
Located just an hour’s drive from Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Ramoji Film City is easily accessible by taxi or tour bus. Many hotels and tour operators in Hyderabad offer full-day or overnight packages, which often include transportation, meals, and priority access to attractions.
The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor exploration. Plan to arrive early, as there’s plenty to see and do, and the studio operates on a fixed schedule for guided tours and live shows.
If you’re looking to extend your visit, consider staying at one of the on-site hotels. The Sitara Luxury Hotel offers a plush Bollywood-themed stay, while Tara Comfort Hotel provides family-friendly accommodations at a more budget-friendly rate.
Insider Tips
Wear comfortable shoes—this place is massive. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are also essential, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months. While photography is allowed in most areas, be mindful of any signage during live shoots or in restricted zones.
It’s a good idea to check the daily event schedule at the entrance to make sure you don’t miss your favorite stunt or dance performance. And don’t forget to stop by the souvenir shops for quirky film-themed memorabilia.
A Must-See for Expats and Tourists in Asia
For expats living in Asia, especially those in the UAE, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand or Malaysia, Ramoji Film City is a hidden gem worth traveling for. It’s immersive, entertaining, and culturally rich—a vibrant mix of India’s storytelling heritage and its modern cinematic prowess.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, Ramoji Film City offers something for everyone. You don’t just watch the magic—you become part of it.
So next time you’re planning a trip to India or looking for a unique experience off the usual tourist trail, skip the predictable and step into the spectacular.