Kati Patang to Koi...Mil Gaya: Bollywood movies shot in beautiful hills of Nainital

New Delhi: Bollywood is known for showcasing picturesque locations in movies, leaving the audience enthralled. From snow-capped mountains to hills of India, Bollywood has always been par excellence when it comes to filming locations. Nainital, nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, has been a long favourite destination for many filmmakers for its serene lakes, lush green hills and colonial architecture.

Some of the popular Bollywood films have been shot in the beautiful locations of Nainital, enhancing cinematic storytelling. Explore the list of Bollywood films which have been filmed in Nainital.

The classic drama, Kati Patang, starring Rajesh Khanna and Asha Parekh, is extensively shot in Nainital and Ranikhet. The film showcases beautiful landscapes of Nainital, especially in the song 'Jis Gali Mein Tera Ghar'. It was also one of the first movies to be shot in the hill station. The film has also been shot at Naina Lake and the Nainital Club.

Directed by Rakesh Roshan, Koi... Mil Gaya starred Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta. While the narrative is set in a fictional town of Kasauli, its significant portions were filmed in Nainital, Bhimtal and Kausani. The serene lake district of Uttarakhand was a major filming location. The Governor's House in Nainital also offered a majestic backdrop to the film.

Sooraj Barjatya's directorial, Vivah, was shot in Nainital along with various locations in Uttarakhand, including Almora and Ranikhet. The Naini Lake in Nainital was a major shooting location. A major portion of the film was also shot in Almora. It stars Shahid Kapoor and Amrita Rao. The film revolves around the two individuals' journeys from engagement to marriage.

Shekhar Kapoor's directorial debut, Masoom, has beautifully captured the tranquillity of Nainital. The serene Naini Lake and the surrounding areas of the hills serve as a metaphor for the film's emotional depth. It revolves around a married couple who find out about the husband's illegitimate child.

Sanjay Kapoor, Priya Gill, Sushmita Sen, Jackie Shroff and Mohnish Behl starrer Sirf Tum (1999) is a romantic drama. Some parts of the film were shot in Nainital, Uttarakhand. The picturesque essence of the location enhanced the cinematic experience of the movie.

Nainital's landscapes and timeless beauty continue to captivate several Indian filmmakers and is a prime choice for them.