Eight famous films, eight surprising film locations —explore the unexpected locations behind these iconic movies.
Ever watched a Bollywood movie and wondered where those stunning locations are? Indian cinema has always mesmerized audiences with its captivating stories, stellar performances, and stunning visuals. However, behind the magic of the silver screen lies the breathtaking locations where these iconic movies were shot.
You might be surprised to learn that many iconic Indian films were shot in places you’ve never heard of! From the beautiful Athirapally Falls in Baahubali to the scenic streets of Corsica in Tamasha, Indian filmmakers often use hidden gems to create movie magic.̣ Get ready to discover some incredible shooting spots from famous films that you had no idea of:
Laapataa Ladies at Sehore, Madhya Pradesh
Laapataa Ladies was filmed in the picturesque villages of Bamuliya and Dhamankheda, nestled in the Sehore district of Madhya Pradesh. These rural locations provided an authentic backdrop that perfectly captured the essence of the film’s storyline, which revolves around life in a traditional Indian village.
The film is now in the running for an Oscar in the Best International Feature Film category. Indian Railways also congratulated the team behind Laapataa Ladies, recently chosen as India’s official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category.
In a bid to enhance the film’s authenticity, local villagers were cast as secondary characters, further integrating the cultural and social dynamics of the region into the story. Visitors to Bamuliya and Dhamankheda can experience the tranquil charm of these villages, interact with warm-hearted locals, and explore the scenic beauty that served as the backdrop for this captivating film.
Laapataa Ladies is competing against Santosh, directed by Sandhya Suri and starring Shahana Goswami, the UK’s official entry for the Oscars 2025 that was shot in parts of Uttar Pradesh.
Baahubali at Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala
The stunning Athirapally Waterfalls in Kerala became a major attraction after its appearance in the blockbuster movie Baahubali. It was featured in several key scenes, including the iconic moment when Shivudu (Prabhas) climbs the waterfall to discover his destiny. The grandeur of Athirapally added to the movie’s epic scale, making it one of the most memorable locations to match one of the finest movies of all time. Baahubali is one of many movies filmed here.
Located about 60 km from Thrissur, Athirapally Falls is one of Kerala’s most visited tourist spots. The waterfall drops from a height of 80 feet into the Chalakudy River, creating an impressive sight, especially during the monsoon season. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking nature, with the area home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Great Hornbill.
Visitors can also explore nearby spots like the Vazhachal Waterfalls, a few kilometres away, and the Sholayar Dam, which offers striking views of the surrounding landscape. Athirapally isn’t just a film location but an ideal spot for travellers seeking scenic beauty and natural attractions in Kerala.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan at Sonmarg, J&K
The breathtaking scenes in Bajrangi Bhaijaan, one of the best movies of its time, where Salman Khan’s character crosses into Pakistan, were filmed at the stunning Thajiwas Glacier near Sonmarg, Kashmir. This is one of the iconic filming locations of this movie, with its pristine snow and towering peaks, convincingly portrays the rugged landscapes of the India-Pakistan border, adding depth and beauty to the film’s dramatic moments.
Thajiwas Glacier, located 7 kilometres from Sonmarg, is a paradise for trekkers and adventure seekers. Its alpine meadows and frozen lakes offer a captivating natural beauty that draws visitors all year round. In Bajrangi Bhaijaan, the glacier became a powerful symbol of the emotional journey, blending danger and serenity perfectly.
Sonmarg, or “Meadow of Gold,” is renowned for its lush valleys and snow-clad mountains, making it a must-visit destination. It’s the gateway to higher Himalayan treks and offers spectacular scenery for nature lovers. These locations, beautifully featured in the film, are ideal for travellers seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Panchayat series at Mahodiya Village, Madhya Pradesh
The popular web series Panchayat has captured the hearts of viewers with its funny and heartfelt portrayal of life in rural India. A big part of its charm comes from its setting in Mahodiya Village, located in Sehore district, Madhya Pradesh.
This village was used as the fictional Phulera in the show, where the main character, Abhishek Tripathi, faces the challenges of working in a village panchayat. Mahodiya, with its simple mud houses, fields, and narrow lanes, gives an authentic feel of village life, making viewers feel connected to its peaceful environment.
Just 40 kilometres from Bhopal, Mahodiya Village has become a spot for Panchayat fans to visit. But there are also other interesting places to explore nearby. The Salkanpur Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is a famous pilgrimage site on a hill, offering beautiful views. You can also visit the Bhim Baithika Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient rock paintings.
Visiting Mahodiya isn’t just for fans of the show; it’s also a chance to experience the peaceful rural life and the natural beauty of Madhya Pradesh’s countryside.
Manjummel Boys at Perumbavoor, Kerela
The latest Malayalam movie Manjummel Boys recreated the famous Guna Caves, also called Devil’s Kitchen, in an abandoned godown in Perumbavoor. The original caves, located near Kodaikanal, are known for their mysterious and eerie atmosphere, made famous by the Tamil movie Guna.
Now, visitors to Perumbavoor can explore this unique replica of the Guna Caves, bringing together the thrill of adventure and the excitement of cinema. It offers a chance to experience the magic of these caves without travelling to Kodaikanal. For movie lovers and adventure seekers, this recreated site in Perumbavoor is a hidden gem worth visiting.
Its connection to natural beauty and film history makes it an exciting destination for those looking for something different. Perumbavoor offers the perfect blend of a quiet town with a surprising link to the cinema’s iconic locations.
Hum aapke hain kaun at Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor, a peaceful hill station in Tamil Nadu, became even more famous when parts of the popular movie Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994) were filmed there. The green hills, misty surroundings, and quiet beauty of Coonoor provided the perfect setting for some of the film’s memorable scenes.
A standout moment is the song “Yeh Mausam Ka Jadoo,” where Prem (Salman Khan) and Nisha (Madhuri Dixit) enjoy the lovely scenery among the tea gardens. This song beautifully showed off the calm and charming vibe of Coonoor.
Coonoor, located in the Nilgiri Hills, is a great destination for nature lovers. Visitors can explore tea plantations, enjoy the cool weather, and relax in the quiet atmosphere. Sim’s Park is a well-known garden that is perfect for walking and admiring various plants. Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint offers stunning views of the valleys and the nearby Catherine Falls.
For a unique experience, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) passes through Coonoor, providing travellers with amazing views. Whether it’s the connection to Hum Aapke Hain Koun or the peaceful surroundings, Coonoor is an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.
Lagaan at Bhuj, Gujarat
Bhuj, a historic gem in Gujarat, rose to cinematic fame when Lagaan (2001) was shot here. Many key scenes of this iconic movie were filmed in the arid landscapes surrounding Bhuj, most notably the intense cricket match that formed the movie’s climax. The vast, sun-baked plains of Kutch, near Bhuj, perfectly depicted the harsh rural life during British rule.
The dry, barren landscapes added realism to the villagers’ struggle against the oppressive British tax system. The memorable scenes where the villagers unite, practice cricket, and ultimately face the British in the final match were all brought to life in the rustic fields outside Bhuj.
However, Bhuj offers much more than its movie legacy. It is home to architectural wonders like the Prag Mahal and Aina Mahal, which reflect the region’s royal heritage. The nearby Kutch Museum and Hamirsar Lake offer a deep dive into the area’s cultural richness. Bhuj is also a gateway to the spectacular Rann of Kutch, a salt desert famous for its Rann Utsav, a cultural extravaganza showcasing local arts, music, and food.
For film buffs and culture seekers alike, Bhuj is a place where cinematic history and vibrant heritage blend seamlessly.
Rang De Basanti at Nahargarh Fort, Rajasthan
One of the most memorable moments from the cult classic Rang De Basanti (2006) takes place at the scenic Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur. While Jaipur is famous for its grand Amber Fort, Nahargarh Fort, perched high on the rugged hills, often goes unnoticed by many visitors.
In the film, this lesser-known fort became the setting for a heartfelt scene where a group of friends, including Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Sharman Joshi, and Kunal Kapoor, sit on the ancient fort walls, sipping beer and sharing conversations about life.
This quiet moment of reflection captures the carefree spirit of youth while beautifully overlooking the Pink City below.
Nahargarh Fort’s panoramic views of Jaipur and its serene atmosphere added depth to the film’s themes of friendship, self-discovery, and patriotism. The fort’s historic charm and peaceful surroundings made it the perfect location for this scene, which resonated with audiences as much as the film’s powerful message.
Though often overshadowed by other popular attractions, Nahargarh Fort is a hidden gem for travellers looking for something different in Jaipur. With its stunning views and tranquil vibe, it’s a great spot to escape the bustle and take in the beauty of the city from above.
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