Ever dreamed of vacationing in the same stunning places you see in Bollywood blockbusters? Well, dream no more! Jammu & Kashmir is a treasure trove of locations that have served as backdrops for countless iconic films. From the houseboats gently swaying on Dal Lake (think “Jab We Met” and “Kashmir Ki Kali”) to the lush meadows and snow-capped peaks of Pahalgam (“Roja”), you can retrace the steps of your favorite on-screen moments. Film tourism in Jammu & Kashmir lets you experience the magic of the movies firsthand, all while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage
Popular Films Shot in Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir has been a popular filming location for decades, with its stunning natural beauty providing a perfect backdrop for countless Bollywood films. Here are a few of the most popular films shot in this region:
Jab We Met (2007): This romantic comedy features the iconic Dal Lake, where the lead characters stay in a houseboat.
Kashmir Ki Kali (1964): This classic film’s title translates to “The Black Beauty of Kashmir,” and it showcases the region’s stunning scenery, including Dal Lake and Gulmarg.
Roja (1992): This romantic thriller tells the story of a young woman who is kidnapped in Kashmir. The film features beautiful shots of Pahalgam, a valley known for its meadows and mountains.
Kabhie Kabhie (1976): This classic love story features some of the most memorable scenes shot in Gulmarg, a popular skiing destination in Kashmir.
Rockstar (2011): This musical drama tells the story of a musician who finds inspiration in the beauty of Kashmir. The film features stunning shots of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and other locations in the region.
Haider (2014): This Shakespearean adaptation is set in Kashmir during the conflict in the 1990s. The film features some of the most powerful and moving visuals of Kashmir ever captured on film.
Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015): This blockbuster film tells the story of an Indian man who helps a Pakistani girl find her way back home. The film features some beautiful shots of Jammu, including the Bahu Fort.
Fitoor (2016): This romantic drama is a modern adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel “Great Expectations.” The film features stunning shots of Kashmir, including the Dal Lake and the Mughal Gardens.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013): This coming-of-age story features some of the most popular tourist destinations in Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg.
Highway (2014): This road trip film follows a young woman who is kidnapped and forced to travel across Kashmir with her abductor. The film features some of the most breathtaking scenery in the region.
Unveiling a Different Side: The Kashmir Files (Partially Shot in Kashmir)
Jammu and Kashmir’s cinematic tapestry extends beyond idyllic landscapes and romantic serenades. The Kashmir Files (2022) stands out as a powerful film exploring the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s.
This thought-provoking film, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, centers around Krishna, a young college student oblivious to his family’s tragic past in Kashmir. A series of events compels him to investigate the brutal killings of his parents during the insurgency. As Krishna delves deeper, he uncovers a web of suppressed narratives and confronts a painful chapter in Kashmir’s history.
The Kashmir Files, while filmed primarily in Mussoorie and Dehradun, did have a short shooting schedule in Kashmir itself, including scenes at the Dal Lake. The film has sparked critical discussions about social responsibility, remembrance, and the importance of acknowledging historical events. While the film’s portrayal of the exodus has been debated, it undeniably sheds light on a sensitive and often overlooked aspect of Kashmir’s story.
These are just a few of the many popular films that have been shot in Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s natural beauty continues to inspire filmmakers and travelers alike.
Popular Locations for Film Shooting in Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir has been a popular filming location for decades, thanks to its stunning natural beauty. Here’s a list of some of the best locations for filming in Jammu and Kashmir:
Dal Lake, Srinagar: Cruise along the scenic Dal Lake, where houseboats featured in “Jab We Met” and “Kashmir Ki Kali” gently sway.
Pahalgam: Relive the moments from “Roja” amidst lush meadows and snow-capped peaks in Pahalgam.
Sonmarg: The idyllic Sonmarg, where “Highway” unfolded its story, is a sight to behold.
Aru Valley: Aru Valley with its serene meadows and scenic beauty is perfect for filming scenes of romance or tranquility.
Gulmarg Ski Resort: Glide down the slopes of Gulmarg’s ski resort, immortalized in “Kabhie Kabhie” and “Aashiqui 2.” This meadow paradise also served as a backdrop for the dramatic encounters in “Rockstar.”
Bhaderwah: Nestled amidst mountains, Bhaderwah, also known as Mini Kashmir, offers breathtaking landscapes and a charming local culture. This hidden gem was the filming location for the classic film “Noorie” and has recently seen a resurgence in film shoots with movies like “19th January.”
Kashmir Tour Packages
Whether you’re seeking idyllic meadows, snow-capped peaks, glistening lakes, or historical landmarks, Jammu and Kashmir offers a treasure trove of filming locations. From recreating iconic scenes from Bollywood blockbusters to uncovering your own hidden gems, film tourism in Jammu and Kashmir promises an unforgettable adventure. Beyond the captivating visuals, immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture, supportive filming infrastructure, and breathtaking natural beauty. So, turn your film fantasies into reality and embark on your cinematic journey through Jammu and Kashmir!
Ready to explore the filming destinations of Jammu and Kashmir firsthand?
Holidays Hunt offers curated travel packages designed to bring your film tourism dreams to life. Let Holidays Hunt travel experts craft the perfect itinerary, ensuring you visit all the iconic locations and hidden gems on your list. Visit Holidays Hunt website or contact Holidays Hunt today to start planning your cinematic adventure in Jammu and Kashmir!
