Filming Locations of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
From snow-capped mountains to regal palaces and bustling cityscapes, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) takes viewers on a visual journey through some of the most breathtaking locales in India and beyond. Directed by Ayan Mukerji and starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, the film isn’t just celebrated for its music and storyline but also for the vivid backdrops that became intrinsic to its narrative. In this blog, we dive into the key filming locations that brought Bunny’s adventures and Aditi’s wedding festivities to life.
1. Manali and the Himalayan Trek
Hidimba Devi Temple & Span Resorts
The trekking expedition that unites Bunny (Ranbir Kapoor), Naina (Deepika Padukone), and their friends begins in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Early scenes, including the iconic running and fight sequences, were shot around the Hadimba Devi Temple—a serene wooden sanctuary nestled amidst cedar forests. Nearby, the production utilized the picturesque Span Resorts area as the base camp for the group’s arrival.
Gulaba, Banjar, Hampta Pass & Naggar
Moving beyond the temple, the crew ventured into rugged terrains:
- Gulaba & Banjar: Rolling meadows and pine-clad valleys lent a dreamy quality to the scenes where friends share intimate conversations and playful banter.
- Hampta Pass: At nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, this high-altitude pass provided a breathtaking vista for the trek sequences. The crew braved temperatures as low as –10°C to capture Bunny and Naina’s transformative moments against the snow-dusted peaks.
- Naggar: The quaint town of Naggar—with its heritage architecture and riverside views—served as an offbeat stop during the extended shooting schedule in Himachal
2. Kashmir: Gulmarg, Pahalgam & Srinagar
Gulmarg (Kongdori Area)
For the film’s most visually striking hiking montage, the team journeyed to Kongdori in Gulmarg, Kashmir. Blanketed in snow, the slopes created a pristine backdrop for Bunny and Naina’s bonding moments, blending romance with adventure.
Pahalgam & Srinagar
Additional musical sequences and scenic interludes were filmed in Pahalgam—known for its lush pine forests and the Lidder River—while urban elements (like busy markets and lakeside scenes) were captured in Srinagar. This blend of wilderness and cityscapes showcased Kashmir’s diverse beauty on screen.
3. Udaipur: Aditi’s Grand Wedding
Oberoi Udaivilas & Lake Pichola
When Bunny returns for Aditi’s wedding, the backdrop shifts to the “City of Lakes”. The Oberoi Udaivilas—a luxury resort on the banks of Lake Pichola—became the central venue for Kalki Koechlin’s lavish wedding sequences. The reflection of palatial architecture on the calm waters gave the scenes a fairy-tale charm.
Jag Mandir & City Palace
Beyond the hotel, iconic landmarks like Jag Mandir (the Garden Palace) and the City Palace were featured in montage shots, capturing processions, dance numbers, and aerial sweeps over Udaipur’s historic skyline.
4. Paris: Bunny’s Wanderlust Chronicles
Rue Mouffetard & Nice
Before the wedding bells toll, Bunny embarks on a soul-searching trip to Paris. Scenes along the cobblestone Rue Mouffetard—a bustling street market in the Latin Quarter—add an authentic European flair. Some song sequences were also filmed in Nice, France, capturing the sun-lit promenades and Mediterranean charm.
5. Mumbai: From Filmistan Studios to Railway Platforms
Filmistan Studios & Mumbai Central
Back in India’s entertainment capital, a handful of indoor sets at Filmistan Studios (Mumbai) provided controlled environments for pivotal dramatic and musical scenes. Meanwhile, the film’s opening train-station encounter was shot at Mumbai Central, evoking nostalgia reminiscent of classic Bollywood romances.
Why These Locations Matter
- Authenticity & Scale: By shooting on-location—from the chill of Hampta Pass to the grandeur of Udaipur’s palaces—the film achieves an immersive authenticity that studio sets alone couldn’t replicate.
- Character Journeys: Each locale mirrors the characters’ emotional arcs: the freedom of Manali’s mountains reflects Naina’s personal awakening, while Udaipur’s regal splendor underscores themes of commitment and nostalgia.
- Cultural Showcase: The diverse backdrops—from Himalayan villages to Rajasthani royal cities—offer audiences a veritable travelogue, highlighting India’s geographical and cultural richness.
Also Read: Exploring Sinners (2025) Filming Locations
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani isn’t just a story about love and friendship; it’s also a tribute to the places that shape our dreams. Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply want to revisit Bunny and Naina’s journey, these filming locations remain as enchanting today as they were when the cameras rolled. Pack your bags—whether literally or virtually—and set off on your own “deewani” adventure!
