Where Cinema Meets Royalty
Udaipur, often dubbed the Venice of the East, is not just a city of lakes and palaces—it’s a filmmaker’s dream. With its shimmering waters, regal architecture, and timeless charm, Udaipur has been the backdrop for many iconic films—both in Bollywood and internationally.
From high-octane action scenes to soulful love stories, the city’s heritage-rich landscape has brought scripts to life. Here’s a look at how Udaipur has carved its place in cinema history.
🎥 1. Bollywood Blockbusters That Loved Udaipur
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
Who can forget the grandeur of Aditi’s destination wedding? The scenes shot at The Oberoi Udaivilas and City Palace gave wedding goals to an entire generation.
Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s visually stunning film used Gangaur Ghat, Hanuman Ghat, and the narrow lanes of old Udaipur to create a fiery love story set against a traditional backdrop.
Guide (1965)
This Dev Anand and Waheeda Rehman classic featured scenes shot at Fatehsagar Lake and City Palace, capturing Udaipur’s scenic charm long before it became mainstream.
🌍 2. International Films That Went Royal
Octopussy (1983) – James Bond
Yes, Agent 007 was here! Udaipur starred in the Bond film Octopussy, with Lake Palace and Monsoon Palace turning into exotic hideouts. The film sparked a wave of global tourism in the 80s.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
Though primarily shot in Jaipur and other locations, parts of the film captured the soul of Rajasthan, including Udaipur’s vibrant streets and lakeside serenity.
📍 3. Famous Shooting Locations in Udaipur
- City Palace – A royal favorite for filmmakers.
- Lake Pichola – Perfect for romantic and dreamy visuals.
- Jag Mandir & Lake Palace – Floating marvels used in both Indian and international films.
- Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) – Dramatic hilltop scenes often set here.
- Gangaur Ghat – Ideal for cultural, festive, and emotional sequences.
🎬 4. Udaipur’s Rising Role in Web Series & Ads
With the OTT boom, Udaipur is also appearing in indie films, music videos, and digital series. Its versatility makes it fit both luxury brands and raw, real storytelling.
🌟 5. Why Filmmakers Love Udaipur
- Royal Aesthetic: Grandeur that fits both period dramas and modern-day love stories.
- Romantic Backdrop: Lakes, sunsets, ghats—romance is natural here.
- Cultural Depth: Festivals, folk music, vibrant streets add authenticity.
- Logistical Ease: Film-friendly hospitality and heritage properties.
🛶 Bonus Tip for Travelers:
Visit during off-season months to witness sets being built or even catch a glimpse of a shoot happening live! City Palace and Gangaur Ghat are often active film zones.
🎞️ Final Frame
Udaipur is more than a destination—it’s a mood, a setting, a character in itself. Whether it’s Bollywood’s dreamy weddings or Bond’s thrilling chases, the city continues to enchant audiences worldwide. If you’re a film buff or a curious traveler, Udaipur is a reel turned real.
