Travel inspired by Bollywood: A new era of tourism

Transforming India’s landscapes into must-visit destinations

Bollywood, India’s vibrant film industry, is more than just a powerhouse of entertainment, it has become a catalyst for promoting tourism, turning reel-life locations into real-life travel destinations.

Bollywood, the heart of India’s thriving film industry, has evolved beyond entertainment, it has emerged as a significant driver of tourism. By transforming iconic reel-life locations into sought-after travel destinations, Bollywood not only shapes popular culture but also influences travel trends, inspiring countless fans to explore the sites featured in their favourite films.

Over the decades, Bollywood has evolved into a potent vehicle for showcasing landscapes, architectural marvels and culturally rich locales, not just within India but also across the globe. Bollywood has successfully intertwined with tourism, influencing travellers’ choices and shaping the perception of destinations.

From the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir to the streets of Madhya Pradesh, Bollywood has left its imprint on nearly every corner of India. Films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) not only popularised the Swiss Alps to Indian audiences, but also showcased the mustard fields of Punjab.

Similarly, Jab We Met (2007) rejuvenated tourism in Shimla and Rohtang Pass, while 3 Idiots (2009) led to a surge in visitors to Ladakh’s Pangong Lake, which became an almost mandatory stop for travellers to the region.

Bollywood has an extraordinary ability to transform ordinary locations into extraordinary travel hotspots. The visual storytelling of Indian cinema has not only captivated audiences but also inspired countless fans to visit the very places that have graced their screens. From historical sites to serene landscapes, the magic of Bollywood continues to shape tourism in remarkable ways. Here are some key locations that have garnered fame through their appearances in popular films.

Hauz Khas Fort, Delhi

Hauz Khas Fort in South Delhi has seen a significant rise in its popularity, due to Bollywood’s influence. This historical site has transformed into one of the city’s most-visited spots, largely due to its appearances in films like Rockstar, Kabir Singh, Tamasha, Jannat 2 and M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story. These movies have not just highlighted the fort’s historical charm but have also made it a place of intrigue and fascination for fans.

When Rockstar featured Ranbir Kapoor wandering through the ruins of Hauz Khas Fort, it created a visual that resonated with many. Soon after, the fort started attracting visitors who were eager to connect with the emotions of the film. Shahid Kapoor’s Kabir Singh added to the fort’s fame, showing it as a place where love and heartbreak played out against its ancient walls. These movies gave Hauz Khas a new identity, turning it into more than just a historic site, it became a piece of pop culture.

The impact of these films has been immense, with thousands of visitors now flocking to Hauz Khas Fort every day. Fans from across the country visit to take photographs where their favourite scenes were filmed, adding their own stories to the place. The fort has also gained attention as a prime spot for pre-wedding photoshoots, with couples looking to capture the same cinematic romance shown in the films.

Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh

Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Chanderi is a quaint town renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture and exquisite handwoven textiles. While Chanderi has long been celebrated for its cultural heritage, it has gained significant attention in recent years. The town has emerged as a sought-after destination for filmmakers, ultimately enhancing its appeal among travellers and history enthusiasts.

Chanderi’s popularity soared with its feature in the 2016 blockbuster Dangal that showcased the town’s vibrant culture. The film, based on the true story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters, utilised Chanderi’s rustic charm to depict the rural backdrop essential to its narrative. As audiences across the country were enchanted by the film’s heartwarming story and stunning visuals, they became increasingly curious about the beautiful town where it was filmed.

Following Dangal, the release of Raazi (2018) further solidified Chanderi’s status as a cinematic gem, showcasing its historical sites and traditional architecture in the context of a gripping spy thriller set against the backdrop of the Indo-Pakistani conflict. The visuals of Chanderi’s ancient fort, beautiful temples and surroundings captivated audiences, prompting many to visit the town to experience its beauty firsthand.

The recent success of Stree 2 (2024) has also significantly contributed to Chanderi’s popularity. The film, a sequel to the hit Stree not only entertained audiences with its comedic and romantic elements but also showcased the town’s scenic beauty and cultural richness. By featuring Chanderi as a key location, the Stree films have drawn a new wave of fans eager to explore the settings that inspired the stories.

This influx of visitors has provided a new avenue for local artisans to showcase their craftsmanship, particularly the famous Chanderi sarees. The attention garnered from these films has not only boosted tourism but has also reinvigorated interest in Chanderi’s traditional handloom industry, further embedding the town in the narrative of Indian heritage and craftsmanship.

Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh

Rohtang Pass, perched at an elevation of 3,978 metres in the Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh, is a mountain pass that serves as a gateway to the majestic landscapes of the Himalayas. Located just 51 km from the popular hill station of Manali, Rohtang Pass is renowned for its stunning vistas, snow-capped peaks and adventurous activities, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable experience in the mountains.

In recent years, Rohtang Pass has gained recognition for its picturesque settings in Bollywood films. Movies like Jab We Met (2007) and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) have showcased the  enchanting landscapes at the pass, further fuelling its popularity among tourists. The stunning visuals captured in these films have inspired countless fans to visit Rohtang Pass and recreate their favourite scenes against its breathtaking backdrop.

So much has the popularity of the pass grown over the past few years that the increasing influx of tourists has raised concerns about the environmental impact on this fragile ecosystem. To address these challenges, the Himachal Pradesh government has implemented regulations to manage tourist flow, including restrictions on vehicle access during peak seasons. These measures aim to preserve the natural beauty of Rohtang Pass while ensuring a sustainable tourism experience for future generations.

Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

Nestled in the Northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley is a picturesque destination known for its lush green landscapes, vibrant culture and the unique Apatani tribal community. This valley has long been celebrated for its natural beauty and rich traditions, but it has recently gained widespread recognition.

Ziro Valley first captured the attention of filmmakers with its stunning scenery in the 2018 romantic film Pyaar Mein Twist, which showcased the valley’s idyllic landscapes and vibrant culture. The film’s picturesque visuals highlighted valley’s rolling hills, sprawling rice fields and pristine rivers, painting a romantic backdrop that resonated with audiences. The film’s success played a crucial role in bringing Ziro Valley into the limelight, igniting interest among travellers seeking to explore this hidden gem.

The valley’s popularity soared further with the release of the 2021 film Kahaani 3, a psychological thriller that featured Ziro Valley as a key location in its gripping narrative. The film showcased the region’s stunning natural beauty while intertwining it with a captivating storyline.

Ziro Valley has since become a hotspot for tourists, who flock to its serene landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in local traditions, taste authentic Apatani cuisine and participate in vibrant festivals like the Myoko festival, which celebrates the harvest season.

Moreover, Ziro Valley has gained a reputation as a popular destination for music lovers, hosting the annual Ziro Music Festival, which attracts artists and music enthusiasts from across the country.

Gurez Valley, Jammu & Kashmir

Tucked away in the majestic Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir, Gurez Valley is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush meadows and vibrant flora and fauna. This serene valley, characterised by its pristine rivers and peaks, has long been cherished by nature enthusiasts and adventurers. However, in recent years, it has gained significant recognition.

Gurez Valley first came into the limelight with the release of the film Shikara (2020), directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. This poignant love story, set against the backdrop of the Kashmir conflict, beautifully showcased the stunning vistas of the valley, highlighting its untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage. The film captured the essence of the valley, presenting it as a land of love and resilience amidst turmoil. With its lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains, Gurez Valley became a symbol of hope and tranquillity, drawing audiences into its landscape.

Another film that placed Gurez Valley on the cinematic map is Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), starring Salman Khan. Although primarily shot in other parts of Kashmir, certain scenic sequences were captured in and around Gurez, further enhancing the valley’s visual appeal and drawing attention to its pristine beauty. The success of the film drew even more visitors to the valley, eager to follow in the footsteps of their favourite stars.

The breathtaking visuals of Gurez Valley in Shikara and Bajrangi Bhaijaan ignited interest among travellers, prompting many to visit the locations that served as backdrops for these compelling narratives. The films’ depictions of the valley’s natural beauty, combined with their emotional storylines, resonated deeply with viewers, leading to a surge in tourism. Now, thousands of people visit the valley on a daily basis, eager to experience the serene surroundings and capture their own moments in the stunning landscapes featured on screen. Additionally, Haider (2014), though shot in multiple locations in Kashmir, also contributed to the region’s allure, with its evocative portrayal of the valley’s rugged beauty.

In addition to these films, Gurez Valley’s allure has been further amplified by its association with various cultural events and festivals that celebrate the rich heritage of Kashmir. As more filmmakers discover the valley’s enchanting beauty, it has the potential to become a sought-after location for future film projects, solidifying its status as a prominent destination in the region.

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