Netflix partners with Ministry of Tourism to spotlight India’s stunning destinations

Discover India with Netflix! From the backwaters of Kerala to Jaipur’s historic streets, Netflix originals bring Incredible India to life, inspiring travel and celebrating the country’s rich culture and landscapes. (Image: AFP)

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Netflix India has joined hands with the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) to transform the way audiences discover India. The partnership blends Netflix’s storytelling expertise with the Ministry’s vision of promoting the country’s diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and hidden gems under the banner of Incredible India.

As part of this initiative, Netflix and the MoT will explore creative ways to weave Indian travel destinations into Netflix India’s original storylines, ensuring both entertainment and tourism promotion go hand in hand.

Monika Shergill, Vice President, Content, Netflix India, shared, “At Netflix, we’ve always believed that India’s stories are as vast and varied as its landscapes — rich with heart, history, and a unique cultural rhythm. Through this partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, we’re not just reaffirming our commitment; we’re celebrating the very soul of India, its diversity, its people, and its voices. Together, we hope to create more opportunities for local talent and communities to thrive, and to share the magic of India with the world.”

From the Nilgiri forests in The Elephant Whisperers to the Andaman Islands in Kaala Paani, the vibrant fields of Punjab in Amar Singh Chamkila, the bustling streets of Rajasthan in Mismatched, and the misty hills of Kalimpong in Jaane Jaan, Netflix has showcased India’s extraordinary natural beauty and cultural diversity to audiences worldwide.

Seeing these locations on screen often inspires viewers to explore them in real life. Internationally, shows like Emily in Paris and When Life Gives You Tangerines have already demonstrated Netflix’s ability to drive cultural travel trends, a phenomenon now set to benefit India’s tourism industry.

Over the last decade, Netflix India has filmed across more than 100 cities in 23 states, creating local ecosystems that support communities while producing globally appealing content. This marks Netflix’s first collaboration with a tourism governing body in South Asia, after similar partnerships with countries including France, Indonesia, Korea, Thailand, Spain, Brazil, and Greece.

Netflix Series and Movies to Inspire Your Next Trip Across India

1. Mismatched – Explore Jaipur’s vibrant streets and historic charm.

2. Little Things Season 4 – Experience the serene backwaters of Alleppey, Munnar’s lush hills, and the bustling vibes of Kochi.

3. Decoupled – A visual treat of Goa’s beaches and coastal lifestyle.

4. Rajma Chawal – Discover Delhi through the lens of contemporary storytelling.

5. Bulbbul – Set against the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Kolkata and West Bengal.

6. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani – A Bollywood classic that features scenic trekking routes across India.

7. Dil Dhadakne Do – While partially set abroad, this film highlights some of India’s coastal locations.

8. The Royals – Shot in Rajasthan at iconic sites such as Shiv Vilas Resort, City Palace, Samode Palace, and Alila Fort Bishangarh.

9. Sacred Games – Mumbai comes alive in this gripping crime thriller, showcasing the city’s geography and urban energy.

10. Bombay Begums – Offers a glimpse into modern-day Mumbai, following ambitious women balancing professional and personal life.

11. Little Things – Follows a young couple navigating life in contemporary Mumbai, blending romance and cityscapes beautifully.

This collaboration underscores the potential of screen-driven tourism, bringing India’s landscapes and culture to life while offering new opportunities for local talent and communities. Whether you’re a Netflix binge-watcher or a travel enthusiast, these stories now serve as a gateway to exploring the richness of India firsthand.