Kashmir to Kerala: 11 Iconic Film Locations You Won’t Believe Are a Bus Ride Away

Have you ever paused a movie and wondered, “Where is that magical place, and can I get there without selling a kidney?”

Kashmir is home to one of the most astonishing wonders of the world: Shikara’s breathtakingly beautiful views. 

And imagine it in reality, it truly is a sight like no other.

The good news is, you’re welcome to visit. And, even better, you don’t have to break the bank. You can travel with just a bus ride, thanks to zingbus, and it’s even more incredible with the travel playlists they provide. 

Whether you’re getting on a solo adventure or joining a group to experience the iconic Bollywood filming locations, zingbus makes it easy for you.

Let’s hit the road.

1. Dal Lake, Kashmir – Haider

It may shock some, but the stunning scenes featuring Shahid Kapoor with serene views were shot here. And yes, it really does feel like a mystical movie set.

Why it’s magical:

• Mist curling over still waters.
• The sound of oars cutting through the water at dawn.
• A cinematic experience that has to be seen to be believed.

Make it your moment:

• Book a sunrise Shikara ride.
• Sip on kawa served boat-to-boat while taking in the surroundings.

Pro Tip: Sign up for zingprime! You’ll get perks such as special discounts, Free Travel Insurance, On-time guarantee, etc., that seasoned travelers rave about. 

2. Hadimba Temple, Manali – Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani

You saw Naina’s transformation, from a reserved girl to someone spontaneous. Now it’s your turn to go to Manali.

Why it’s iconic:

• Pine trees taller than your fears.
• A subconscious epiphany waiting to be inhaled in the mountain air.
• The temple in real life is just as calming as in the movie.

Do the things:

• Recreate that scene at Hadimba Temple.
• Trek to Jogini waterfalls, splash included.
• Try thukpa from the cozy café.

Pro tip:

An overnight bus lets you sleep through the ride and wake up to the scent of pine trees, fresh air, and a ready-to-explore feeling.

3. Lake Pichola, Udaipur – Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela

Bhansali. Lakeside romance. Draped clothes. Do we need to say more?

Why it stuns:

• Poetic temples rising out of water.
• Sunsets making arches and spotting random things under the water, hinting at proposals.
• Every single bite feels like a scene in rooftop dinners.

Make the most of it:

• Golden hour boat rides.
• Roam the floor of the City Palace like royalty.
• Grab chaat in the backstreets before heading to Ambrai Ghat.

4. Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer – Bajrangi Bhaijaan

California-like beaches inside the desert give this location a one-of-a-kind essence.

What adds to the charm?

• Your shadow seems to grow infinitely.
• Stars look unbelievably clear.
• Silhouetted camels on the horizon.

To view the full magic:

• Go for dune bashing and camel safaris before sunset.
• Stay in desert-themed camps with gourmet cuisine and native dance performances.
• Get up at 5 AM to capture the tranquil atmosphere where the desert is devoid of any soul.

5. Marine Drive, Mumbai – Wake Up Sid, Tamasha, Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani

These places are bound to take your breath away. Mumbai, the city that never sleeps, is guaranteed to keep you in awe with its boundless activities.

Why it’s timeless:

• Stunning view of the city cascading into the world’s best beaches.
• Slow motion moments that feel like a time capsule.
• Spontaneous monologues and monologs like no other.

What to do:

• Sip on cutting chai while strolling from Nariman Point to Girgaon Chowpatty.
• Catch the lights turn on one by one.
• Vintage cafes and vada pav in Colaba, must!

zingbus travel nugget:

For the hot shot travel perks, book ahead of time for major events. Mumbai’s pace waits for no one.

6. Fort Chapora, Goa – Dil Chahta Hai

Friendship, freedom, Fort Chapora. No travel list is complete without that iconic frame.

Why it’s the ultimate throwback:

• Whenever Fort Chapora comes up in a group chat, someone will say “when are we going?”
• The sea view is truly stunning.

Checklist:

• Explore less touristy beaches like Cola or Mandrem.
• Get a group picture with the sea in the background.
• End your day at Anjuna with waves, coffee, and music.

Travel hack:

Arrive rested and ready to vibe. Save on stay with overnight routes from Pune, Mumbai, and Bangalore to Goa.

7. Tea Gardens, Munnar – Life of Pi

Although technically a Hollywood film, the shots are breathtaking and cinematically beautiful.

Why it feels unreal:

• Symmetrical green hills shrouded in mist.
• Tea-scented air that adds to the silence.

Your to-do tasks:

• Walk through the estates and chat with local workers.
• Get a fresh packet of tea as a delightful memento.
• Witness the sunset from Top Station.

8. Pangong Lake, Ladakh – 3 Idiots

That last reunion scene with ‘Rancho’? That’s Pangong Lake.

The charm:

• The lake changes color throughout the day.
• Surreal views surrounded by mind-bending mountains.

What to do:

• Spend the night at a campsite by the lake.
• Visit Druk White Lotus School (aka “Rancho School”).
• Go solo off the grid and let the silence recharge your soul.

Access tip:

Although buses can’t take you directly to Pangong, zingbus can get you to Leh and Manali, and from there you can take local buses to continue the journey.

9. Munnar, Kerala – Chennai Express

This is where Shah Rukh and Deepika had their picturesque ride through the hills while shooting for the film Chennai Express.

What makes it dreamy:

• A blend of tea farms, winding roads, and fog. it’s breathtaking.
• Everything here is peaceful and green.

Experience it all:

• Take a toy train for that cinematic effect.
• Walk through the tea estates and let the pace of life slow down.
• Don’t miss trying local Kerala food, served on banana leaves.

10. Delhi to Varanasi – Mukkebaaz, Asur

Welcome to the spiritual capital of India, where mysticism meets raw cinematic realness. Varanasi has long served as a canvas for directors looking to blend intensity with philosophy. Whether it’s the gritty realism of Mukkebaaz or the psychological brilliance of Asur, this city has storytelling in its air.

Why this route matters:

• Because Varanasi isn’t just ancient, it’s timeless.
• Every alley could be a film frame. Every ghat, a scene.
• And now, it’s easier than ever to get there, thanks to zingbus Maxx.
  

Must-dos:

• Visit the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat during Ganga Aarti.
• Roam the labyrinthine alleys that have seen both saints and scripts.
• Indulge in a boat ride at dawn, the cinematic mood sets itself.
  

Traveler tip:
zingbus Maxx is live on this route, offering an elevated travel experience. Think cushy seats, cleaner rest stops, gourmet meals, and premium services for a smooth ride into the soul of India.

11. Chandigarh to Shimla – Bang Bang!, 3 Idiots (climax scene)

Feel like flying through curves on your way to the hills? This one’s for the thrill-seekers and romantics alike. Shimla has lent its charm to many Bollywood stories, especially those filled with action, drama, and heart.

Why you’ll love it:

• That iconic highway feel as your bus hugs the hills.
• Crisp mountain air that smells like pine and possibilities.
• Perfect for weekend escapes or spontaneous trips.
  

What to do:

• Ride the toy train from Kalka to Shimla for the full “filmy” feel.
• Explore Mall Road and sip coffee where Ranbir might’ve.
• Don’t miss Kufri if you’re visiting in winter snow scenes included.

Pro Tip:
With zingbus, the drive itself becomes part of the movie. Book early to snag a window seat trust us, the views are the hero here.

Plan Your Next Visit Soon!

There’s no need for a luxury budget or a film crew to live a story worth telling. A bit of wanderlust, a dash of imagination, and a seat on zingbus are more than enough.

• Travel smarter with zingprime.
• Travel softer with zingbus Maxx.
• Travel real with zingbus.

So… gather your friends.

Book your ride.

One stop at a time and you can create your movie.

Book at zingbus.com now and don’t forget to capture that reel.