Do you remember “waterfall scenes” from Bahubali? Any guesses about this beautiful location? Well, the place is located in Kerala! Not just Bahubali but there are many famous Indian movies shot in Kerala that made those places very popular. If you are planning for a Kerala trip and want to know about those magical places made popular by famous movies and are preferred by film shooting locations in Kerala, this article is for you.

Film shooting often takes us to a dream paradise by showcasing some best shots and locations. It makes us believe that there is beauty on Earth and life can be a bed of roses. Much of a film shoot is done outdoors than in the studios.

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The hunt for a suitable location begins known as location scouting by the location scout. There are several aspects to keep in mind so that the finance of the film is not over-budgeted and the producers do not turn to Agony Aunts. There cannot be a better option than Heaven on Earth, God’s Own Country – Kerala.

Kerala: Why It is a Famous Shooting Location in India?

Kerala fulfills all the requirements that are needed for a film shoot. It has all the aesthetic beauty. If you are looking for Beaches, Waterfalls, Hill Stations, Historical Caves, Ghats, Dams, and Wildlife, the state situated on India’s tropical Malabar Coast has it all. The production cost is reasonable. The place is logistically feasible.

There are many domestic and international airports like Cochin International Airport, Calicut International Airport, and Trivandrum International Airport. The place can be reached by road, water, and rail as well. The weather of 600 km of the Arabian Sea shoreline makes it apt to shoot indoors and outdoors as well.

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All these things attract directors to prefer film shooting locations in Kerala. Let’s see a few famous shoots that happen in Kerala.

Popular Film Shooting Locations in Kerala:

1. Athirappilly Waterfalls
2. Bolgatty Island
3. Chandragiri Fort and River
4. Eravikulam National Park
5. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
6. Munnar
7. Chettuva Backwater
8. Cherai Beach
9. Fort Kochi
10. Kovalam

The state that is known for palm-lined beaches, coconut trees, and emerald greenery all over, makes the director of a film head over heels to capture the beauty of the place. The backwaters of Kerala land bestow some of mesmerizing effects to the overall scenario. This is the reason why Kerala tops the charts when it comes to film shooting locations. In fact, many Bollywood movies shot in Kerala have beautifully captured its natural charm. To believe yourself read the following –

1. “Bahubali” Shooting Location at Athirappilly:

If you have been dumbstruck looking at the Bahubali key poster where Bahubali held the stone of Shivling on his shoulder at the backdrop of mighty waterfalls and wondered if could be a piece of photoshop, well it’s Athirappilly WaterFall – Thrissur, Kerala, that makes the poster so real. The scene shoot was held at the Athirappilly Falls, known as the Indian Niagara Falls. The Bahubali shooting place at Athirappilly Falls has become a must-visit spot for fans and tourists alike.

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People all over the world come to witness the breathtaking view of nature. The view of upstream and downstream of the waterfall keeps one captivated. It is known as one of the most significant waterfalls in Kerala.

The natives call it Suren Chellakutti Falls who do not mind plunging it the cold forest water during monsoons, to experience the tranquility of this place. The best time to experience and get some spellbound cinematography, it is ideal to visit the place in Monsoon. Interestingly, Suren Chellakutti Falls is also a famous Bahubali shooting location in Kerala, which adds to its allure for tourists and film enthusiasts alike.

• Best Time to Visit Athirappilly: September to January.
• Other movies shot here: Ponniyin Selvan, Ravan, Dil Se, Puli.
• Best photo points: Viewpoint near the top of the falls & riverbank trail.
• Travel tip: Early morning visits offer misty views — perfect for cinematic photos.

Watch the song & explore Athirappilly Waterfalls:

Read Also: Best Athirappilly Tourist Places to Visit for an Unforgettable Trip

2. Karwaan Song “Chota Sa Fasana” Was Shot in Irinjalakuda & Kumarakom:

Not just South Indian films, many Bollywood movies have also been shot in Kerala, One such example is the Karwaan movie. In this film, two of Kerala’s most popular tourist destinations, Irinjalakuda and Kumarakom, play starring roles. Irinjalakuda is a small town located in Thrissur district; having different tourist spots to visit with the nearest one. It is best known for its temples and traditional handicrafts. A major part of the song Chota Sa Fasana was shot on the highway of NH 47 in Irinjalakuda. The song is a portrayal of an apprehensive road trip, the journey experience, and the relationships.

Kumarakom is a village located on the banks of Lake Vembanad. It is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience Kerala’s backwaters. In the film, Kumarakom is shown as a peaceful and idyllic place, and the crew took advantage of the village’s stunning scenery.

Some parts of the song Chota Sa Fasana were shot in a 5-star resort in Kumarakom, named Zuri Kumarakom Kerala Resorts & Spa. This resort offers a breathtaking view of the backwater of Vembanad Lake. Here you can feel the peace and enjoy a luxurious stay with mouthwatering local cuisines.

Thanks to films like Karwaan, Kerala’s unique culture, and natural beauty are being showcased to a global audience.

• Best time to visit: Winter is the best time to visit Kumarakom. On the other hand, as Irinjalakuda is blessed with various historical and religious places, the 11-day annual festival of the temple held in April-May is the best time to visit this town.
• Famous activities: Houseboat stays on Vembanad Lake, bird watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
• Cinematic trivia: The highway shown in Karwaan connects major backwater routes — one of the most filmed roads in Kerala.

Check out the song from Karwaan shot in Irinjalakuda and Kumarakom:

3. “Guru” Was Here – Barso Re Megha Song – Athirappilly

Kerala has been the Paris for lovers. Amidst the nature of sky, air, water, parakeet, there is a sweet smell of romance that lingers in the air. The movie Guru captured this very essence in the song ‘Barso Re Megha’.

When Aishwarya Rai Bachchan danced to the tunes of A.R. Rahman, not only did the dance made a sensation everywhere, but it was the backdrop of the song that acclaimed much praise.

Athirappilly Falls the favorite amongst the directors hence. The rains that the song showed were all real, and it was the waterfalls that gave a cutting edge to the entire song. Do visit this place during the monsoons, (June to November), when Athirappilly falls the neck of the woods.

• Shooting trivia: The song was shot during real monsoon rains—no artificial rain used.
• Behind the scenes fact: Crew stayed at Rainforest Resort, which overlooks the falls.

Watch the song & See how beauty of Athirappilly waterfalls is captured:

4. “Chennai Express” Ran Here As Well – Munnar:

How can one forget the song “Kashmir Main, Tu Kanyakumari”! Shot amid the confluence of three mountain streams of Munnar, this song has broken many records. Shot in Devikulam, 8 km from Munnar, it has enthralled tea, coffee, and spice plantations.

This hill station is an exotic honeymoon destination and one of the best film shooting locations in Kerala. Munnar is famous for its Neelakurinji blossoms that bloom to their glory all over the place. Neelakurinji blossoms every twelve years, and 2018 is the year when between April 2018 to August 2018, the entire region will become blue with 40 odd varieties of this flower.

To witness the amour in the air, this place becomes the much-awaited destination for romance. Whether you want to embrace your partner betwixt and between of tea estates or ride on a safari at Rajamali National Park in Eravikulam, from taking historic photographs at the hill station top to enjoying river rafting activities in Munnar, this place has it all.

• Best Time to Visit Munnar: Throughout the year
• Unique fact: Neelakurinji flowers bloom once every 12 years—next bloom expected in 2030.
• Other movies shot: Life of Pi, Before the Rains.

Watch song & See how beauty of Munnar is captured:

5. “Titli” from Chennai Express Also Flew Here – Meesapulimala:

The song ‘Titli’ from the popular movie Chennai Express by Deepika Padukone was shot at the Meesapulimala Hill Station. When the actress, Deepika Padukone, swayed herself onto the World’s highest tea plantation, the entire shot becomes a picture-perfect Kodak moment.

Meesapulimala is the second highest peak in the Idukki district of Western Ghats and is known to be the highest trek-able peak in South India. Via Rhodo Valley Trekking to this area is a beautiful adventure.

The land currently seeks many adventure enthusiasts to be their favorite tourist destination. Summers (March-May) is an excellent time to be here to be a gawker and enjoy the locus.

• Best Time to visit Meesapulimala: October to February.
• Altitude: 2,640 meters — the 2nd highest peak in South India.
• Trekking details: Permits are needed from Kerala Forest Department.

6. Even Hollywood Loves Kerala: ‘Life of Pi’ Was Shot Here – Munnar

Director Ang Lee couldn’t have thought of a better location to shoot for ‘Life of Pi’ than in the beauty of Munnar in Kerala. The famous Hollywood movie is all about how Pi Patel named boy survives on a lifeboat along with a Bengal tiger after his ship was wrecked in the Pacific Ocean. Interestingly, film shooting point Munnar has become a popular spot for tourists who want to relive the cinematic experience.

Munnar’s Tea Gardens and Rose Gardens were shot during the making of the movie for several scenes. Munnar incorporates all the elements of nature. It is closed to nature and showcases the beauty of the megacosm with full wright. Many filmmakers choose Munnar shooting locations because of its lush landscapes and serene environment.

• Specific location used: Munnar Tea Museum and Rose Garden.
• Filming trivia: The early-life scenes of Pi Patel’s childhood were filmed here.

Read Also: Amazing Kerala Weekend Trips for One & Two Days: Perfect Short Escapes

7. “Raavan” Shooting in Malayatoor Reserve Forest, Athirappilly Falls & Surrounding Forest:

Malayatoor Reserve Forest is a beautiful place with plenty of greenery and fresh air. This is a great place to see some of the native animals of India, as well as to get a feel for the state’s lush vegetation. On the other hand, the Athirappilly waterfalls is simply majestic.  Its surrounding forest is a sight to behold. The Raavan movie was shot in these places. Some parts of the movie was shot in the forests. And the backdrop of the song “Behne De” was the Athirappilly waterfalls.

• Best Time to Visit Malayatoor: Though it is a year-round destination, September to February is the best time to visit Malayatoor, when the temperature is mild and the climate is moderate.
• Famous for: Trekking to Malayatoor Hill (St. Thomas Church).
• Behind the scenes: The forest shots in Raavan were captured with rainproof drones.

Watch how the beauty of Athirappilly Falls is captured in the song Behne De here:

8. “Tu Hi Re…” from ‘Bombay’ Mesmerized Everyone – Bekal Fort

The cinema’s cape of ‘Tu Hi Re…’ was shot in the heart of Kerala’s most massive fort, Bekal Fort. The song won many accolades and is a famous love song all over the nation. Many fans often ask about the Tu hi re song shooting location, which adds to the song’s charm and popularity.

This song sung by legendary singer Hariharan is a love ballad showcasing how Shekhar (Arvind Swamy) sings for the love of his life Shaila Bano (Manisha Koirala) when there is the bitterness of separation dwelling between them.

The song shot shows the grand architecture of Bekal Fort with its greenery on one side and beach to the other with the enchanting view of the Arabian Sea. The place is captured aptly during the monsoons from March to May.

• Best Time to Visit Bekal Fort: December to February (During Monsson)
• Historical fact: 300-year-old fort built by Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi dynasty.
• Other films shot: Rang De Basanti, Urumi.
• Music trivia: The fort’s soundscape inspired A.R. Rahman’s echo-style mixing for Tu Hi Re.

9. “Jiya Jale” from ‘Dil Se…’ Was Shot With Love – Thekkady

The exotic location of Dil Se’s movie song ‘Jiya Jale’ has marked an impression in the minds of many due to its sensuous dance performance, Lata Mangeshkar’s charismatic voice, and music legend A.R Rehman’s contribution and the weathered backdrop just added icing to the cake.

The song filmed on Shahrukh Khan and Preity Zinta was shot at Thekkady, Idukki. Thekkady is famous for adventures Bamboo rafting, and wildlife, much of it is seen in the song. The majestic mammoths in the song brighten up the intoxicated environment around.

Thekkady is known for bewitching the images of elephants. The song has won many hearts, and the picturesque remains vibrant in the minds for years.

The lustful greenery of Thekkady ought to pull its tourists for some reasons. It is eminent for boating and bamboo rafting activities. Thekkady’s Periyar National Park offers a pleasant walk. The elephant treks and wildlife safari makes every wildlife lover in complete awe.

The sanctuary is rich with vegetation, flora, and fauna and one can have a close watch on wildlife. This land can be best explored from October to February to witness its unending chains of hills.

• Best Time to Visit Thekkady: September to February
• Key attraction: Periyar Lake boating — elephants can often be seen near the shore.
• Activities: Elephant ride, bamboo rafting, spice plantation tours.
• Trivia: Jiya Jale shooting location in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

10. “Ek Deewana Tha” to “Baaghi” was here – Alleppey

Alleppey has been a favorite destination amongst location scouts for several reasons. The beautiful spread of houseboats and backwaters, the chartreuse paddy fields of Kerala, the boat races, and the landscape have made this locale enticing. In fact, Baaghi shooting location in Kerala included some of these stunning backwaters and paddy fields, highlighting the region’s cinematic charm.

This is the reason why super-hit action-packed movies like Baaghi, Dil Se, and love story Ek Deewana Tha scenes were shot here. A love song on Tiger Shroff and Shraddha Kapoor from the movie Baaghi ‘Girl I need you’ was shot on the boats was at Alleppey.

The traditional boat race competition has been captured well. Most of the portions of the movie Dil Se show the surroundings of Alleppey.

The movie Ek Deewana Tha was shot in Alleppey. The churches and houseboats in the film are a blessing known as Venice from East, Alleppey.
Tourists can enjoy spine-tingling experiences throughout the year except March to May, being the peak summers, and witness the shoot locations to capture immoral moments.

• Best Time to Visit Alleppey: October to March
• Highlight: Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race (August).
• Film trivia: Baaghi’s boat fight sequence was filmed near Punnamada Lake.

11. “Puli” Shooting Spot at Athirappilly, Vagamon & Malayattoor:

Puli, an Indian Tamil fantasy-adventure film, was shot in some of the magnificent locations in Kerala. Athirappilly is one among them. A grand action scene from the Puli was shot at Athirappilly Falls and nearby forest areas. This is a heavenly place with serene natural beauty, gushing waterfalls, pristine streams, and verdant plantation. The forest nearby Athirappilly is quite dense and includes various types of flora and fauna. The exotic wildlife of this forest is simply mesmerizing. If you are searching for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature, Athirappilly is the place for you to go.

Some parts of the movie were shot in Vagamon. It is a hill station situated near the Kerala border. Vagamon is blessed with the breathtaking natural beauty of lush green hills, beautiful ravines, and winding rivulets. The film’s stunning visuals truly make it a memorable Vagamon movie experience. Another mesmerizing place in Kerala where some of the scenes were shot is Malayattor. The place is surrounded by dense forests, green hills, enchanting valleys, lazy streams, and exotic wildlife. Both these places have a tranquilizing natural beauty that can refresh your mind, body, and soul. These locations are considered a popular Kerala shooting spot for filmmakers seeking scenic beauty.

• Best Time to visit these locations: September to February is the ideal time for visiting these places and enjoying the serene natural beauty to the fullest.
• Cinematic trivia: The green meadows seen in Puli were shot at Vagamon Meadows viewpoint.

Additional Cinematic & Heritage Locations You Shouldn’t Miss:

Besides the above 11, some heritage spots of Kerala are also movie favorites:

• Varikkasseri Mana (Palakkad): A traditional Namboothiri home used in more than 100 Malayalam films like Devasuram and Aaraam Thampuran.
• Olappamanna Mana (Vellinezhi, Palakkad): Known for its cultural charm and wooden interiors — often seen in period films.
• Padmanabhapuram Palace: Famous for its murals and royal ambiance, this palace appears in several historical dramas.

These places showcase Kerala’s heritage side and are perfect for photo shoots or cultural trips.

Film-Tourism & Practical Travel Tips:

Kerala Tourism is now promoting “film tourism” so that movie lovers can explore the exact locations they see on screen. Information boards and AR map guides are being introduced at major film spots like Athirappilly, Bekal, and Munnar.

When visiting forest areas like Malayatoor or Periyar, travelers should check for entry permits and follow eco-tourism rules. Local guides can also show you the precise camera points used in the movies!

Quick Comparison for Travelers:

Location	Movie Connection	Best Time	Experience Type
Athirappilly	Bahubali, Raavan, Guru	Sept–Jan	Waterfalls & Forest
Munnar	Chennai Express, Life of Pi	All year	Hill Station
Bekal Fort	Bombay, Urumi	Dec–Feb	Heritage & Beach
Thekkady	Dil Se	Oct–Feb	Wildlife
Alleppey	Baaghi, Ek Deewana Tha	Oct–Mar	Backwaters
Varikkasseri Mana	Malayalam Classics	Year-round	Heritage Architecture

Where to Stay: Luxury & Local Gems Near Film Spots

Want to experience a 5-star scene in real life? Stay where the stars stayed!

• Zuri Kumarakom Resort & Spa – Featured in Karwaan, right on the backwaters!
• Blanket Hotel, Munnar – Wake up to tea plantations like in Chennai Express.
• Spice Village, Thekkady – Jungle vibes like in Jiya Jale from Dil Se.
• Punnamada Resort, Alleppey – Capture your own version of Baaghi’s boat scenes.

Pack Your Bags Now!

The terrain of Kerala invites every nature lover to come and be one with nature. Every visitor ought to fall in love with the Athirappally and Vazhacha Waterfalls near Thrissur or Bolgatty Palace in Kochi harbor, be it the Chettuva Backwaters of Thrissur or the Parambikkulam Tiger Reserve in Coimbatore.

Kerala has much more in store than it shows on the map. Exploring is the best way to know this place. Take your trip today and tick that favorite destination from your bucket list!

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