No matter how far and how often one has travelled, we get influenced by Bollywood films and the locations where the film has been shot. Besides the music, the story or the script, the star cast and the style and colourful attire to suit the script, the tip of the iceberg is when the locales are mind-blowing, as movies are shot in various parts of the world. Shooting in exotic locations in the world is pivotal in making a good film that boasts the photography and cinematography that the film needs for its success.
If you are fond of travelling and seeing places, and if you are in love with Bollywood, scroll down to discover some of the best iconic locations where Bollywood films have been shot and have endorsed tourism in India or the world by shooting their films in the most charming locations.
These locations are usually shot in India or abroad, and the directors have their favourite places too, like the hill stations or flower valleys or orchards, places that have been appealing not only to the film-makers but also to the audience.
Manali - Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Jab We Met, and Highway were shot in Manali. Nestled amidst the Kullu Valley, the picturesque, stunning hill station in Himachal Pradesh is known for its mountain peaks, flowers, valleys and orchards. The place is so appealing for tourists as well as filmmakers to shoot their films here.
Rajasthan – The Royal State of Rajasthan, with its legacy that has beautiful lakes, forts, and palaces, has portrayed some of the most extravagant beauty amidst the serenity of a desert. Many films were blockbusters, such as Jodha Akbar, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Border, and Goliyon Ki Rasleela - Ramleela.
Mumbai – Mumbai is the city of Dreams, a vibrant metro in India with one of the largest entertainment hubs with India’s renowned film stars and the Bollywood Industry, which is like a magnet attracting aspiring actors and actresses, or film enthusiasts to the city. The city is not only a land of opportunities but also has its own charm, with its many interesting locations for filmmakers. Some of the best locations in Mumbai that are shot in films are Bandra, Juhu, etc. Some of the films shot in Mumbai are Slumdog Millionaire, The Lunch Box, Munnabhai MBBS, and many more.
Apart from Mumbai, the other major places where the filmmakers head for their film shooting are Kashmir, Kerala, Kolkata and Amritsar. Many famous films were shot in these places.
Goa - is also one of the most popular destinations for many filmmakers who featured beaches, forts, landscapes and the Goan culture while taking their shots in films such as Golmaal, Dear Zindagi, Chennai Express, Dil Chahta Hai, Race, Go Goa Gone, Finding Fanny, Singham, Josh, Saat Hindustani the early film of 1969, the iconic film Bombay to Goa, Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, Gumnaam and many more.
Thailand - One of the most favourite locations for film shootings. Kaho Na Pyaar Hai was shot in Thailand .The breezy beaches of Thailand, to the Krabi Island, made us fall in love with the scenic beauty and its title track song that was shot amidst sheer bliss and beauty. Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, besides Thailand, a part of it was shot in New Zealand.
Mauritius – Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, the story of unconditional love and friendship, was shot at the University of Mauritius. The beauty of the wonderful beaches, waterfronts and gardens transports you to the era of Rahul, Anjali and Tina’s love story.
London – The family drama on tradition, respect, love and togetherness brings Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, a classic film that was shot partly in London. The song Suraj Hua Maddham, with Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol romancing, was shot in the serene deserts of Egypt.
Some other historical and nostalgic places that echo in our ears are Ramnagar in Sholay, a town near Bangalore city. In the film Sholay, some of the shots capture the rustic landscapes and rocky terrains of the region. These rocks where Gabbar Singh had his dacoit troupe camped are also called Sholay Rocks
Jaipur – The emotions of the young rebellious generation that we related to in the film Rang De Basanti were shot in the royal ruins of Jaipur. A film that was about virtues, friendship, and sacrifices. The favorite anthem, Masti Ki Patshala, was shot in Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur.
Switzerland – Raj and Simran made us fall in love with the stunning beauty of Switzerland. There is no denying the online chemistry of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.
Dubai – the emirate has witnessed the making of some of the most popular Bollywood films, whether it’s the formula cars chasing in an action film or the lavish and sophisticated life, with a zest of exotic locations such as Burj Khalifa or much more, the UAE has offered amazing locations and comes across as an astounding destination.
Hong Kong – Awarapan had a spectacular skyline with magnificent skyscrapers and street markets. The action thriller film was shot in Hong Kong. The film transformed into a canvas of sparkling lights with a panoramic view of Victoria Peak.
USA – My Name is Khan was a critically acclaimed film shot in the stupendous country. The film starring Kajol and Shah Rukh Khan deals with the racism and criticism that Muslims face in the country. The film had some breathtaking landscape filming and showed the roads of America, wanting the tourists to witness personally some iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, the Universal Studios of Hollywood, the Yellowstone National Park and much more.
Spain – Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara shows us the three friends living their life to the fullest on their planned road trip by SUV, passing through the mesmerizing coastlines of Barcelona. The film is about a heartwarming friendship between the three friends and reveals to us some of the amazing things to do while in Spain. Some of the other locations are Jab Harry Met Sejal, Rockstar, Bang Bang and Duplicate were shot in Prague’s unique and historical sites.
Bollywood has, over the years, ventured into filming in some of the popular foreign locations, including Prague, New Zealand, and various European Countries, showcasing diverse Landscapes and culture. Films like Tamasha, Dum Maro Dum or as the name suggests, London Paris New York were shot in various European countries, including Corsica, Amsterdam, and Lisbon, to name a few, in Eastern Europe.
