Bollywood Shooting Locations to Visit in India for Muslim Travelers

Bollywood, India’s glitzy and glamorous film industry, is known for showcasing some of the country’s most picturesque destinations on the big screen. For Muslim travelers from around the world, visiting these iconic Bollywood shooting locations offers an exciting opportunity to explore India’s beauty while experiencing a slice of Bollywood magic. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, nature lover, or history buff, these destinations promise to provide a blend of cinematic allure and cultural richness, making your trip to India unforgettable.

Here’s a guide to the best Bollywood shooting locations in India that are perfect for Muslim travelers looking to combine travel with film history, spirituality, and cultural exploration.

Lights, Camera, Action! Bollywood's Best for Muslim Travelers

1. Pangong Lake, Ladakh (3 Idiots)

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Featured in the heartwarming climax of the massive blockbuster 3 Idiots, Pangong Lake’s breathtaking blue waters and rugged mountains offer a surreal, peaceful landscape. This serene and untouched location is perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty.

What to do: Enjoy the stunning lake views, take photos at the exact spots where the movie was filmed, and embrace the tranquility of this remote area.

Pro tip: Ladakh is home to a significant Muslim population, with prayer facilities available in nearby towns like Leh, making it easier for Muslim travelers to find mosques and halal food options.

2. Amer Fort, Jaipur (Jodhaa Akbar)

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The magnificent Amer (Amber) Fort in Jaipur served as the backdrop for many scenes in the romantic historical epic Jodhaa Akbar. With its grand palaces and intricate Rajasthani architecture, the fort captures the majesty of India’s royal history.

What to do: Explore the beautiful courtyards, royal halls, and stunning views of the city from the fort. You can almost imagine Akbar and Jodhaa walking through these historic grounds. For an exploration based in actual history you can also book a guide or take an audio guide for a small fee.

Pro tip: Jaipur has many mosques, including the Jama Masjid near the fort. For halal dining, there are plenty of options, including traditional Mughlai restaurants.

3. Udaipur’s Lake Palace, Rajasthan (Octopussy, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani)

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This stunning white marble palace floating on Lake Pichola has been featured in several films, including the James Bond movie Octopussy and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, the quintessential Bollywood rom-com. Its romantic setting makes it one of the most picturesque locations in India.

What to do: Visit the palace by boat and soak in its serene beauty. The surrounding Aravalli hills add to the charm, making it a perfect spot for couples and families alike.

Pro tip: Udaipur has a relatively small Muslim population, but finding prayer spaces and halal food is easy, especially near the central areas of the city.

4. Mehboob Studio, Mumbai (Mother India)

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One of the oldest and most famous film studios in India, Mehboob Studio in Bandra, Mumbai, has been the birthplace of countless Bollywood films, including classics like Mother India, first great Bollywood blockbuster. If you’re in Mumbai, visiting this legendary studio is a must for every Bollywood fan.

What to do: Take a tour of the studio (if available) or attend one of the occasional film screenings or events held at the venue. Even walking around the iconic Bandra area, with its Bollywood history, feels special.

Pro tip: Mumbai is a cosmopolitan city with plenty of mosques and halal restaurants, including some famous ones near Bandra like Shalimar and Lucky Restaurant.

5. Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur (Rang De Basanti)

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Nahargarh Fort, perched on the hills overlooking Jaipur, gained fame from the film Rang De Basanti, where a group of friends shares some of the film’s most memorable moments.

What to do: Watch the sunset over Jaipur from the fort’s viewpoint. It’s a perfect place to relax and reflect, surrounded by history and beauty.

Pro tip: As with other sites in Rajasthan, Nahargarh Fort is close to mosques and halal food options, making it convenient for Muslim travelers.

6. Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh (Jab We Met)

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Featured in Jab We Met, Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The picturesque journey to the pass adds to the experience.

What to do: Whether it’s winter sports or just appreciating the stunning scenery, Rohtang Pass is a beautiful escape from city life. You can also take a selfie at the exact location where Geet and Aditya’s love story blossomed in the movie.

Pro tip: Nearby Manali offers several mosques and halal dining options for Muslim travelers, ensuring your stay is comfortable.

7. Pataudi Palace, Haryana (Veer-Zaara)

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The regal Pataudi Palace, with its sprawling lawns and opulent architecture, was featured in the heartwarming love story Veer-Zaara. This historic palace, owned by the Pataudi family (home to Bollywood royalty Saif Ali Khan), offers a peek into the glamorous life of Indian royalty.

What to do: Take a guided tour of the palace and enjoy its luxurious setting. You might also recognize it from other films like Eat Pray Love.

Pro tip: Haryana has a number of mosques, and nearby Gurgaon offers a variety of halal restaurants, making it easy for Muslim travelers to find prayer spaces and food options.

8. Valleys of Kashmir: The “heaven on Earth” of Bollywood

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Known as “heaven on Earth,” Kashmir has been the backdrop for countless romantic Bollywood songs, featuring stunning snow-capped mountains, serene lakes, and lush green valleys. Muslim travelers will also find Kashmir’s Islamic culture and rich history a comforting aspect of their visit.

Movies filmed here: Fitoor, Haider, Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Must-visit spots: Visit Gulmarg for skiing and snow, Dal Lake for a serene houseboat ride, and Pahalgam for scenic views.

Pro tip: Don’t miss the Mughal Gardens and Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar. Try the famous Kashmiri Wazwan—a traditional feast with halal options.

9. Chapora Fort, Goa (Dil Chahta Hai)

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This laid-back, scenic fort in Goa shot to fame with the romantic comedy film Dil Chahta Hai. The fort offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, and the iconic scene where the three friends discuss life and friendship was filmed here.

What to do: Take a relaxing walk around the fort, enjoy the mesmerizing views of the coastline, and snap pictures with the famous backdrop that every Bollywood fan knows. It’s a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.

Pro tip: While Goa is known for its seafood, there are many halal-friendly restaurants in popular areas like Calangute and Panjim. You can also visit Jama Masjid in Sanguem for prayers.

10. Chomu Palace, Rajasthan (Bhool Bhulaiyaa)

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Chomu Palace became famous as the eerie and mysterious haveli in Bhool Bhulaiyaa, the quintessential horror-comedy. The palace’s intricate design and historic charm are captivating.

What to do: While you might not encounter ghosts here, you can tour the palace and enjoy its grand architecture. It’s also a hotel, so you can even stay in the palace itself!

Pro tip: Rajasthan is dotted with beautiful mosques and halal restaurants, so Muslim travelers will feel welcome while exploring this historical gem.

Conclusion

For Muslim travelers from around the world, visiting Bollywood shooting locations offers a unique way to explore India’s beauty while connecting with its film heritage. From the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra to the serene backwaters of Kerala, these destinations provide a mix of cinematic magic, history, and culture. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of your favorite Bollywood stars or seeking a spiritual retreat, India’s diverse landscapes and rich Islamic history make it a must-visit destination.