If you are dreaming of a scenic escape to the hills, Bollywood has been your unsuspecting travel guide for decades. Several iconic films have captured the majestic beauty of India's mountains, turning picturesque locations into characters themselves. These movies do more than tell a story; they ignite a deep desire to pack your bags and experience the serenity and adventure of the highlands firsthand.
Classic and Contemporary Mountain Tales
The coming-of-age journey in 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' (2013) is a visual love letter to the Himalayas. The film's memorable trekking sequences, shot in Manali, Gulmarg, and charming village sets in Himachal Pradesh, perfectly blend thrill with tranquility. The pine forests and snowy slopes provide a breathtaking backdrop for Bunny and Naina's journey of freedom and rediscovery, making every viewer crave a similar backpacking adventure.
Imtiaz Ali's 'Highway' (2014) takes the audience on a raw and transformative road trip through India's diverse landscapes. The narrative moves from Punjab's fields to the spiritual, rugged terrains of Spiti and Kinnaur, with stunning shots of Kashmir's Aru Valley. The mountains in this film are not just a setting but a powerful metaphor for the protagonist Veera's quest for freedom and self-discovery, appealing to anyone seeking solitude and stirring scenery.
Even classics like the 1960s romance 'Kashmir Ki Kali' continue to inspire travel. The film is a timeless showcase of Kashmir's paradise-like beauty, featuring Dal Lake, vibrant houseboats, and serene shikara rides under chinar trees. The snow-capped peaks and pristine waters surrounding Shammi Kapoor and Sharmila Tagore make a compelling case for a classic Kashmir holiday.
Films Defining Stark and Spiritual Landscapes
Farhan Akhtar's 'Lakshya' (2004) is renowned for its powerful depiction of the Leh and Ladakh region. The film uses the vast, barren mountains and surreal high-altitude landscapes to amplify Hrithik Roshan's character arc. The visuals of Ladakh's rugged solitude remain some of Bollywood's most iconic, instilling a longing for an adventurous trip to the rooftop of the world.
Set against the divine backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas, 'Kedarnath' (2018) captures both the spiritual essence and scenic fury of Uttarakhand. The film portrays the pilgrimage town of Kedarnath with its misty mornings, winding rivers, and towering peaks. The love story of Sara Ali Khan and Sushant Singh Rajput unfolds amidst this natural beauty, making the mountains feel both magical and formidable, and inspiring a visit to this sacred region.
Winter Wonderlands and Poetic Retreats
While 'Fanaa' (2006) is set in Kashmir, safety concerns led the crew to shoot in the Tatra Mountains of Poland. The result is a postcard-perfect vision of a winter paradise, complete with powdery snow slopes, cozy wooden cabins, and Alpine valleys. Kajol and Aamir Khan's romance in this snowy setting is perfect inspiration for a dreamy, white Christmas-style holiday.
Finally, Vikramaditya Motwane's 'Lootera' (2013) offers a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of a winter retreat. The film's second half is set in the snow-covered hills of Dalhousie, where stark white landscapes and mist-laden vistas create a poetic, tranquil atmosphere. The serene and quiet backdrop elevates the emotional story of Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha, positioning Dalhousie as the ideal destination for a peaceful and romantic winter escape.
These seven films, spanning from the 1960s to the 2010s, prove that Bollywood has long understood the captivating call of the mountains. They serve as powerful visual guides, showcasing the diverse beauty of India's highlands—from the adventurous trails of Himachal and Ladakh to the spiritual paths of Uttarakhand and the serene winters of Dalhousie. Your next travel inspiration might just be a movie away.
