Bollywood’s actresses draped in a Sari and dancing on melodious tunes with backdrop of Swiss alps has always mesmerized the audience. Bollywood has had a long affair with the landscapes of Switzerland. Right from the first ever film shot here, Sangam in 1964 starring Raj Kapoor, Indian film folks haven’t looked back.
With the block buster success of DDLJ (Dilwale Dulhania Le Jaenge) Yash Chopra immortalized the beauty of Switzerland in hearts of people. Switzerland also even has a lake named after him, Yash Chopra Lake, and after his demise in 2012, he was named as the honorary ambassador of Interlaken.
Following the legacy and trend set by Yash Chopra, many other film directors head to Switzerland to captivate the beauty of this country.
We have covered some of the most popular locations and the Bollywood films shot.
Bern
The old town of Bern is listed as a UNESCO World heritage site. The fountains, narrow streets and the historic towers of this city are a charm that no traveler can resist. The boutiques and the bars of this town are a must visit and our Bollywood celebrities also binge on it.
Dhai Akshar Prem Ke had scenes from Federal Palace of Switzerland, Zytglogge Tower Tram Ride, and Railway Station Zweisimmen.
Hero Number 1 was shot at various spots within the city.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayange had scenes from Airport Saanen, Church (exterior) Saanen, Marktgässli Bridge Saanen, Obersimmental Saanen, Gstaad.
Veer Zara had scenes from Lauenensee Lauenen.
Darr had scenes from Jungfraujoch.
Yes Boss had scenes from Schadau Castle Thun, Train from Zweisimmen to Montreux.
Bachna ae haseeno had scenes from Glacier Alpine 3000 Coaster Gstaad, Early Beck Gstaad Church Gstaad.
Fribourg
It is surrounded by Sarine roiver from three sides that gives this place a picturesque backdrop. The old town over here has many Gothic era facades from 15th century that have adorned many Bollywood film scenes. It also has a town wall which was historically built to protect the town.
Khoobsurat had scenes from Castle Gruyères, Main Street Gruyères, St Theodul Parish Church Gruyères.
Indian had scenes from Bulle.
Geneva
A city which needs no introduction, it’s the most cosmopolitan city of Switzerland. It is where the United Nations Europe Headquarter is based. The city is popular for its watch makers and the chocolates. Lake Geneva has many a times been a centre of adoration through Bollywood films.
Dhai Akshar Prem Ke had scenes from Lighthouse Geneva.
Baadal had scenes from Geneva Port.
Lucerne
Located near the lake Lucerne, it has captivated the interest of travelers for long. Mountain excursions and a great shopping scenes are what keep the travelers busy. It also is home to the Europe’s oldest wooden Chapel bridge that has many a times been shot by Bollywood. Town squares and churches of this place are widely known and must visited spots.
Biwi No. 1 had scenes from Chapel Bridge Lucerne, Bucherer Shop Lucerne, Jesuit Church Lucerne.
Chori Chori Chupke Chupke had scenes from Lake Lucerne, Lucerne Area.
Vaud
It is located in the lake Geneva region. Skiing and luxurious dining are the must do in the place. It is a hub for winter sports and you must have seen the pictures of this place in post cards. It is also known for the igloo adventures and hot air balloon rides.
Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hain had scenes from Castle Aigle, Chillon Castle Montreux.
Jodi No. 1 had scenes from Bebette’s Sandwich Vevey, Rougement Schloss.
Zurich
If you are seeking a place that is perfect combination of urban life and nature, then Zurich is for you. Museums, dining arenas, and a great nightlife are just some perks of this city. With luxurious brands in hands reach and mountains just 1 hour drive away, it has captivated the interest of Bollywood folks. You must have seen this city in the Swiss urban shots of Indian films
Don 2 had scenes from Grossmünster Church, Münster Bridge.
Dhoom 3 had scenes from Zurich Main station.
Kalyug had scenes from Limmatquai, Main Station Langstrasse Central.
Swiss alps are calling, and you must go!
