When Bollywood lovers think of Switzerland, the first thought that comes into their mind is Raj (Shah Rukh Khan) romancing Simran (Kajol) in Yash Chopra's Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). The filmmaker's love for the breathtaking beauty of the snowy wonderland is no secret. The scenic hotspots in Switzerland where DDLJ was filmed will always remain fondly etched in their memory. NDTV's Abira Dhar recently visited the town of Interlaken in Switzerland, reliving some special DDLJ sequences that were shot here. First on her travel itinerary was the central park also known as the Thyon snow park where Raj pranked Simran by offering her a rose. Next, she went to the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, which was Yash Chopra's favourite hotel. so much so that the authorities dedicated an entire suite to him? Watch this for all the details and to see where some of these DDLJ scenes were filmed.
So which of the popular Switzerland hotspots have a special connection with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge? Here's our list
1. Zweisimmen
This charming village serves as the entryway to the renowned Gstaad area. The Montreux – Bernese Oberland – rail line, which runs to Montreux on Lake Geneva, also begins in Zweisimmen. It was the same place where Simran missed her train while buying a Swiss bell. Zweisimmen is a great place for skiing.
2. Gstaad
Remember the song Zara Sa Jhoom Loon Main where a drunk Kajol runs like a freebird on the Switzerland streets? Gstaad is the place we are talking about. This beautiful town is perfect for a family getaway, containing lakes and waterfalls. Do check into the Early Beck bakery for some delectable savoury delights.
3. Launen Enge
A long strip of road, surrounded by vast meadows and rolling hills is what Launen Enge presents you with. The song Ho Gaya Hai Tujhko was shot here when Raj and Simran developed feelings for each other. You can take a romantic walk with your partner here. There is also the famous wooden bridge featured in the song sequence.
4. Saanen
The Saanen bridge frequently appears in the movie with the iconic “palat” scene being filmed in this picturesque location. Due to its popularity, there is also a picture of Raj and Simran on this bridge. Do visit the nearby railway station and a church which finds a place in DDLJ as well.
5. Montbovon
Refresh your memory to a particular DDLJ scene where Simran prays inside an architecturally brilliant church while Raj looks at her affectionately. That church is in Montbovon, a quaint hamlet on the River Sarine. The idyllic countryside is apt for outdoor activities including cycling, hiking, canyoning and mountain biking.
6. Lauenensee
Did you know that a lake in Lauenensee has been named after Yash Chopra? Although no scenes from DDLJ were shot here, you can visit this place to soak in the beauty of nature.
Abira Dhar also attended the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland where she had a short and sweet conversation with Shah Rukh Khan. King Khan was felicitated with an award at the event. Here's the video of their candid chat and Abira's unique journey through Switzerland.
From DDLJ to Darr and Silsila to Chandni, the Yash Chopra-styled romance is incomplete without the actresses swirling in colourful chiffon sarees against the all-white Switzerland background consisting of snow-capped peaks dotted with emerald green forests.
