Not everything you see in films is a work of VFX or artificial sets; many of them are actual locations. We have talked of some of these shooting destinations in India that you might have travelled to but failed to notice.
Pangong Lake, Ladakh
Remember the heartwarming reunion of Raju Rastogi (Sharman Joshi) and Farhan Qureshi (R. Madhavan) with their friend Rancho (Aamir Khan) in 3 Idiots? Well, this is the place where it was shot, and since then, this has become a prime location for both travellers and Bollywood.
Nearby attractions: Khardung La Pass, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery and Spangmik Village
Films shot: Jab Tak Hai Jaan
Nearest airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport, Leh (226 km)
Udaipur Palace, Udaipur
India has a rich monarchical history, and when it comes to showcasing it on screen, Bollywood has often turned to Udaipur Palace. Visiting the palace is a feast for the eyes, with its grandeur speaking volumes about the royalty of the old times.
Nearby attractions: Bagore ki Haveli Museum, Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace and Ambrai Ghat
Films shot: Ram Leela and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
Nearest airport: Udaipur airport (23 km)
Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur
Undoubtedly, India is a hub of architectural marvels, and Bollywood has always made sure to make the best out of it; one such place is Nahargarh Fort. Yes! It’s the same place where the “Masti ki Paathshaala” song was shot.
Nearby attractions: Jaigarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Amber Fort and Nahargarh Biological Park
Films shot: Rang De Basanti and Bol Bachchan
Nearest airport: Jaipur airport (12 km)
Gulmarg, Kashmir
Snow-capped mountains or a green meadow as a backdrop make even a mediocre snap beautiful; how can it get unnoticed by the film fraternity? And in India, what could be better than Gulmarg to give such cinematic liberty to film directors?
Nearby attractions: Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake, Ningle Nallah and Drang
Films shot: Haider and Highway
Nearest airport: Srinagar airport (56 km)
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling
We’re sure after watching the “Kasto Mazaa” song from Parineeta; you must have gotten the desire to recreate the scenes of the song. Well, that’s the beauty of this place and must not be missed if someone is planning a trip to Darjeeling.
Nearby attractions: Tiger Hill, Dudhia, Tea Garden and Tibetan Buddhist Monastery
Films shot: Barfi
Nearest airport: Bagdogra airport (47 km)
Athirappilly Falls, Thrissur
For many years, Athirappilly Falls remained undiscovered by the tourism industry until the blockbuster Bahubali was shot, making it one of the most desirable tourist places in India. Thankfully, given the beauty it holds, it is now accessible to everyone.
Nearby attractions: Thumboormuzhi Dam & Garden, Charpa Waterfall, Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and Munakkal Beach
Films shot: Ravan
Nearest airport: Cochin International Aiport (44 km)
Apart from being popular shooting spots for films, these places are also known to be amongst the favourite places for pre-wedding shoots for couples. So if you know someone searching for the perfect location for capturing their wedding memories, you now have a great recommendation for them!
