Famous Movie Locations in Rajasthan: A Bollywood Cinematic Tour

Rajasthan has long been a favourite for Bollywood filmmakers, offering a mix of grand forts, opulent palaces, and vibrant desert landscapes. The state’s rich history, architectural brilliance, and cultural heritage have made it the perfect backdrop for some of Bollywood’s most iconic movies. From sweeping romance to action-packed dramas, filmmakers have found Rajasthan's diverse settings ideal for storytelling.

1. Pokhran – Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran

Pokhran, a remote town in the Thar Desert, is famous for India’s first successful nuclear bomb test in 1998. The vast, barren landscape around the town reflects the rugged beauty of Rajasthan’s desert.

In Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran, John Abraham portrays a gripping tale of national pride, with scenes in the same desert where the historical nuclear tests took place, adding realism to the film’s dramatic narrative.

2. Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer – Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam

Bada Bagh, a serene garden complex with royal cenotaphs, sits on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, offering stunning views of the golden desert landscape. The intricate carvings on the cenotaphs reflect the rich heritage of Rajasthan.

In Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, the beauty of Bada Bagh is showcased during the soulful moments between the lead characters, and the picturesque location adds to the romantic, emotional depth of the film's most poignant scenes.

3. City Palace and Chomu Palace, Jaipur – Bhool Bhulaiyaa

The City Palace in Jaipur is a striking blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, with its grand courtyards and intricately designed interiors reflecting the opulence of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. It remains a central attraction in Jaipur, representing the splendour of the Pink City. Some major scenes were shot at Chomu Palace too.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa, a psychological thriller, was shot within the palace’s maze-like corridors, adding to the suspense and eeriness of the storyline, with the palace’s historic charm enhancing the film’s mysterious atmosphere.

4. Oberoi Udaivilas & Bagore Ki Haveli, Udaipur – Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani

Bagore Ki Haveli, an 18th-century mansion located on the banks of Lake Pichola, is known for its ornate interiors and vibrant courtyard performances. Its traditional Rajasthani architecture offers a glimpse into Udaipur’s rich cultural past.

In Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Bagore Ki Haveli and Oberoi Udai Vilas served as the backdrop for a lavish destination wedding, with its colourful, festive setting amplifying the celebratory mood of the film’s grand wedding scenes.

5. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur – Shuddh Desi Romance

Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India, rises above the blue city of Jodhpur, offering panoramic views and standing as a symbol of Rajputana strength and valour. Its vast courtyards and intricately designed palaces have attracted filmmakers and tourists alike.

In Shuddh Desi Romance, Mehrangarh Fort provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s carefree, youthful energy, with several romantic scenes playing out against the fort's stunning vistas, reflecting the evolving relationships of the characters.

6. Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur – Rang De Basanti

Nahargarh Fort, perched on the Aravalli hills, offers sweeping views of Jaipur city, especially stunning during sunset. The fort’s historic walls and peaceful surroundings make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

Rang De Basanti features an iconic scene shot at the fort, where the protagonists watch the sunset over Jaipur, symbolising the carefree spirit of youth and the power of friendship.

7. Mandawa, Jhunjhunu – PK

Mandawa, a small town in Jhunjhunu, is known for its grand havelis adorned with intricate frescoes that reflect the region’s artistic heritage. Its rustic charm and old-world feel make it a favourite spot for period films.

In PK, the character’s entry from an alien world to Earth was showcased in this picturesque town, with the quaint beauty of Mandawa’s havelis offering a stark contrast to the unique premise of the film’s otherworldly plot.

8. Laxmi Niwas Palace, Bikaner – Khoobsurat

Laxmi Niwas Palace, an exquisite red sandstone palace in Bikaner, was built as the royal residence of Maharaja Ganga Singh. Its luxurious interiors and regal architecture make it one of Rajasthan’s most iconic palaces.

In Khoobsurat, this palace stood as the home of Fawad Khan’s royal character, with its stunning royal décor adding to the fairy-tale romance and whimsical charm of the film.

9. Chomu Palace, Jaipur – Bol Bachchan

Chomu Palace, a 300-year-old fort-turned-hotel, boasts traditional Rajasthani architecture, with its grand courtyards and royal chambers offering a glimpse into the region’s regal past. It’s a perfect blend of history and luxury.

In Bol Bachchan, the palace was shown as the house of Ajay Devgan’s character, with its grand rooms and imposing architecture complementing the powerful and comedic personality of the lead character in the film.

10. Amer Fort, Amer – Jodhaa Akbar and Bajirao Mastani

Amer Fort, with its grand gates, towering ramparts, and expansive courtyards, stands as one of Rajasthan’s most iconic forts, reflecting the glory of Rajputana’s architecture and history. Its striking design has made it a popular choice for historical films.

In Jodhaa Akbar and Bajirao Mastani, Amer Fort was used to depict royal palaces, with its elaborate halls and courtyards adding a layer of authenticity to the films’ historical narratives, highlighting the opulence of ancient Indian royalty.