Shooting Locations
Beaches, exotic wildlife, hill stations and backwaters are amongst just a few of the prime locations that can be used to shoot any form of media. Ads, short films or even feature length productions would benefit a lot from the picturesque locations that Kerala has to offer. Film makers have raved over the natural beauty of the state and we cordially invite you as well to share and bask in the glory of God's Own Country.
More beauty per frame
It is difficult to refrain from using hyperboles and superlatives while describing Kerala. For the beauty and diversity of this state is truly astounding - well-documented by those beaches and backwaters, hill stations and forests that Kerala is synonymous with. But for the discerning eye, there is more. Every slice of this land is beauteous and irrespective of whether it is captured on canvas, paper or on screen, its beauty sparkles, going beyond the medium to entice the onlooker. And the world had a rich sampling of it in Bombay, Dil Se, Mistress of Spices, Nishabdh and many more.
- One of the ten paradises of the world - National Geographic Traveler
- Beaches, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries and more
- A rural landscape dotted with spice plantations and paddy fields
Ram Gopal Varma's Nishabdh was extensively shot in Munnar.
More art per shot
Kerala's natural beauty has bestowed the land with a rare visual culture, which in turn fostered a rich artistic heritage. Here you'll experience art all around - not only in museums and galleries, but also in homes and streets, in the courtyards and walls. And this visual culture finds its utmost expression in the vibrant repertoire of art forms and festivals the land conscientiously safeguards - from Kathakali to Kalaripayattu, Panchavadyam to Pooram. Their richness has added life and colour to many a scene, their beauty has complemented many an inspiring moment onscreen.
- Highly defined visual culture
- Immense cultural and artistic wealth
- Wide repertoire of art forms and festivals
Thekkady and Munnar were featured in Mani Ratnam's Dil Se.
More plots per story
Kerala inspires! There is enchantment in every square kilometre of the land - not just in the backwaters, beaches or hill stations; but also in the lush paddy fields and spice plantations, in the quaint towns and streets, in the monsoons. For Kerala, these are living, breathing entities; an integral part of the land's social and cultural milieu; its Muse. This is perhaps epitomized well by the Nila nadi (river Bharathapuzha) by whose banks have blossomed a thousand storylines and celluloid dreams. This is perhaps why Kerala could nurture many men and women who have made their mark globally in the field of art, especially cinema.
- Truly inspiring ambience
- Highly talented people
- Rich legacy in filmmaking
Gurinder Chadha's Mistress of Spices was partly shot in Munnar.
More images per set
A unique blend of cultures, Kerala offers a variety of looks and moods, predominantly through its diverse architectural styles - British, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and more - that are remainders of its age-old ties with other countries. For instance, Fort Kochi in Ernakulam district, which provided the ideal backdrop for the Merchant-Ivory Productions' period film, Cotton Mary, takes you several centuries back in time. Architecture apart, nature has also contributed its share. Munnar, for instance, has the charm of Scotland; the beautiful waterways of Alappuzha beat the visual splendour of Venice; the waterfalls of Athirapally have the ferocity of the Niagara. A diversity that helps filmmakers translate their concept with complete authenticity.
- Diversity in look and feel
- Locations unique in style and character
- Architecture conforming to different styles and eras
Fort Kochi offered the right ambience for Ismail Merchant's Cotton Mary.
More locales per schedule
What is perhaps remarkable about Kerala as a shooting location is the fact that all major destinations are within an hour or two from each other. Which means moving around from one location to another is a breeze, well complemented by the wide network of roads and rails. A salubrious climate makes travelling even more pleasant. Except for the monsoon season from June to August, Kerala offers fresh air and sunshine all through the year. Which also means you have at least nine months of fair weather to shoot in. A picture-perfect scenario!
- Exotic locales close to one another
- Easy transfers
- Pleasant climate
Historic Bekal lent the backdrop for a song sequence in Mani Ratnam's Bombay.
