Nepal offers filmmakers a rare combination of diverse landscapes, rich cultural backdrops, and untouched natural beauty — all within short distances. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to medieval cities, dense jungles, serene lakes, and rural villages, the country is a dream destination for both domestic and international film productions. Nepal’s visual variety allows it to double for Tibet, India, Central Asia, or even fictional settings.
Over the years, Nepal has attracted major production houses for feature films, documentaries, music videos, and commercials. International movies like The Golden Child, Little Buddha, and scenes from Doctor Strange were shot here. Thanks to affordable costs, hospitable locals, and supportive logistics, Nepal is now steadily gaining global attention as a versatile shooting location.
Popular Film Shooting Locations
Kathmandu Valley
Perfect for historic and cultural shots. Bhaktapur, Patan, and Kathmandu Durbar Squares offer ancient architecture and traditional lifestyles.
Pokhara
Known for its stunning lake, mountain views (Machhapuchhre, Annapurna), and peaceful ambiance. Great for romance, adventure, or lifestyle sequences.
Mustang & Upper Mustang
Otherworldly desert landscapes, Tibetan-style villages, and mysterious caves. A favorite for period dramas and spiritual-themed content.
Mount Everest Region (Khumbu)
Epic mountain visuals, sherpa culture, and thrilling trekking routes. Ideal for adventure, survival, or high-altitude filming.
Chitwan & Bardia
Lush jungles and wildlife — elephants, rhinos, and tigers. Excellent for nature documentaries or rural village scenes.
Lumbini
Birthplace of Lord Buddha. Tranquil, spiritual, and surrounded by unique monasteries from different countries.
Rural Nepal (Dolakha, Gorkha, Rolpa, Rukum)
Raw and untouched — suitable for war films, ethnographic documentaries, or rural life stories.
Film Shooting Permissions
Foreign and local filmmakers must apply for permits through the Ministry of Information and Communication (MoIC) or via a registered line producer or local fixer in Nepal. Required documents include:
Application form
Script or concept note
Equipment list
Crew passport copies
Tentative shooting schedule
Once approved, the Ministry provides a shooting license, which is mandatory for filming in public spaces or protected sites.
For aerial (drone) filming, separate permission is required from CAAN (Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal) and MoHA (Ministry of Home Affairs).
If this itinerary doesn't suit you and you'd like to create your own, let's talk now!