Bollywood has turned countless Indian locations into pilgrimage sites for devoted fans. Here is your guide to visiting the real places where iconic scenes were filmed.
Dil Chahta Hai — Goa
Farhan Akhtar’s 2001 classic turned Goa into a must-visit destination for young Indians. The Chapora Fort scene became so iconic that it features in countless travel itineraries across the state even today.
Jab We Met — Shimla and Bathinda
Kareena Kapoor’s Geet dragged Shahid Kapoor through some of North India’s most atmospheric railway stations and hill towns. The Shimla locations are easily accessible and immediately recognisable to any fan of the film.
3 Idiots — Pangong Tso, Ladakh
The finale at Pangong Tso lake turned this high-altitude Ladakhi lake into one of India’s most photographed travel destinations. Tourist visits to Pangong Tso tripled in the years following the film’s release.
How to Plan Your Trip
Many state tourism boards have created dedicated Bollywood tourism packages. Kerala, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh have all capitalised on their film heritage to attract film-loving visitors from across India.
