Cinema is a portal to places we may not visit. Some locales have even become characters in their own right. Tamil Nadu, with its diverse topography — misty hill stations, sunlit beaches, bustling cities, and ancient heritage sites — has set the stage for countless cinematic journeys.
The interplay of cinematography, art direction, and storytelling transforms real-world locations into enduring visual memories. Through insights from cinematographers, production designers, and heritage experts, this journey explores Tamil Nadu’s film locations, their impact on audience perception, and the rise of film tourism.
Guna Caves
A few locations spotted in Tamil cinema have achieved the legendary status of Guna Caves in Kodaikanal, named after the Kamal Haasan-starrer Guna (1991). The caves, shrouded in mist and mystery, have since been closed to the public due to their treacherous terrain.
Art director Ajayan Chalissery, who recreated Guna Caves for Manjummel Boys, recalls the challenge. “Public access is restricted, so we needed special permission. But since it was risky to bring an entire crew there, we built a set instead. It took two months to design, using pipe and fibre materials.” Recreating the caves was complex.
“We found an unused building in Perumbavoor that matched the caves’ height and structure. Since no one had entered the actual caves in 14 years, we had to be extremely careful in our research.” He believes art direction goes beyond mere replication.
“Each place has a distinct identity — Karaikudi, Madurai, Coimbatore, Chennai, Puducherry all have unique architectural styles. When we recreate locations, we include these nuances, even down to the costumes of the people,” he says.
Even decades after Guna, the allure of these caves endures, proving that some cinematic locations outgrow their films to become legends of their own.
Shaping perception
Tamil cinema has also played a vital role in showcasing and preserving architectural heritage, from the grandeur of Chettinad mansions to the colonial elegance of Chennai’s landmarks.
Ashmitha Athreya, trustee and head of operations at Madras Inherited, reflects, “Seeing a heritage building on screen sparks curiosity. I love recognising them in films, especially when filmmakers reinterpret their function.” However, heritage sites pose challenges.
“The main concern is preserving structural integrity while filming. But these locations provide an authenticity that sets can’t replicate.” She notes the measurable impact of film tourism. “After Manjummel Boys, tourist visits to Guna Caves reportedly surged.
Featuring a site in a film inevitably increases footfall.” This influx, if managed well, can be beneficial. “Tourism, when promoted sensitively and in a community- friendly manner, can generate revenue for heritage sites,” Ashmitha says. One site she hopes to see featured in cinema is the Madras Labour Union building. “Its historical significance deserves attention and preservation.”
Unexpected challenges
While Tamil Nadu’s hills and heritage sites are cinematic staples, its coastline has also provided stunning visuals. Preetha recalls a dramatic shoot in Puducherry for Hey Sinamika.
“We filmed a song despite a storm warning. Brinda Master (choreographer) took a chance, and we ended up shooting in real rain during a red alert. The roads were flooded, but the visuals turned out magical.”
Marina Beach, too, has been central to Tamil cinema’s identity, framing political speeches, emotional reunions, and sweeping montages. “Seeing a location on screen creates a lasting impression,” Ashmitha says. “For stories set in Chennai, showcasing popular landmarks introduces the city to audiences.”
The future of filming on location
With CGI and modernisation, will filmmakers continue using real locations? “I hope they keep focusing on historically significant places — it’s a great way to highlight lesser-known heritage sites,” says Ashmitha.
Preetha agrees. “Filming outdoors requires careful planning — timing is key to natural light. Beauty shots work best in the early morning or late evening for soft backlight, while midday sun creates strong shadows for drama. Mapping the sun’s path ensures lighting aligns with our vision.”
Cinema transforms ordinary places into extraordinary experiences. For audiences, these films are an invitation to travel — to step into the frame, follow beloved characters, and see Tamil Nadu not just as a destination, but as a world waiting to be explored.
Iconic film locations in Tamil Nadu
Inputs from Krishnakumar TK, historian and heritage enthusiast
Hogenakkal Falls, Dharmapuri
Hogenakkal is famous for its medicinal baths and coracle rides. The carbonatite rocks here are some of the oldest in South Asia. The scenic waterfall was beautifully captured in the song Chinna Chinna Aasai from Roja, Mazhaiye Mazhaiye from Rhythm, and the intense suicide scene in Vaaname Ellai.
‘Periya Veedu’ (Big House), Athangudi
Athangudi, part of the Chettinad region, is renowned for its opulent Chettiar mansions, which reflect a unique blend of South Indian and colonial architecture. These grand houses, adorned with intricate Athangudi tiles and teakwood carvings, have been a favourite setting for period films. Rajiv Menon’s Kandukondain Kandukondain was memorably shot at the Kanadukathan Palace, along with songs like Iruvizhiyo Siragadikkum from Pirivom Santhipom and Idhu Daana from Saamy.
Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai
This architectural marvel, dating back over a thousand years, is one of India’s most iconic temples. Its grandeur was captured in Anniyan.
Sittanavasal Cave, Pudukkottai
These ancient rock-cut Jain caves, adorned with exquisite frescoes from the 7th century, were featured in Karthi’s Aayirathil Oruvan.
Gingee Fort, Vellore
Referred to as the “Troy of the East” by the British, this 9th-century fort was a stronghold of various rulers, including the Cholas, Vijayanagara kings, and the Marathas. The rugged terrain and imposing fort walls have provided stunning visuals for films like Kovil (Song: Kokku Meena Thinguma) and Saatai (Song: Vaa Nanba).
Ripon Building, Chennai
Built in 1913, this neoclassical structure serves as Chennai’s municipal headquarters. It played a prominent role in Mudhalvan, particularly in scenes depicting political power shifts.
Gandhi Memorial Museum, Madurai
Housed in the historic Tamukkam Bungalow, this museum was once the summer house of the Nayak rulers. It holds relics of Mahatma Gandhi, including the blood-stained cloth he wore when he was assassinated. The building’s heritage appeal was showcased in Veyil and Iruvar.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Madurai
Built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak, this palace is an Indo-Saracenic masterpiece with grand arches and intricate stucco work. It was memorably featured in Mani Ratnam’s Bombay and Guru.
Chennai’s Railway Stations
The city’s historic railway stations, including Chennai Central and Egmore, have long been cinematic backdrops for dramatic entries and emotional reunions. Films like Alaipayuthey, Agni Natchathiram, Singaravelan, and Gentleman have effectively used these locations.
Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kanniyakumari
Built in 1970 at the spot where Swami Vivekananda is believed to have meditated, this iconic structure is a major pilgrimage site. It was prominently featured in Kayal.
Anna Nagar Tower, Chennai
Officially known as Visvesvaraya Tower, this 138-foot-tall structure was built for the 1968 World Trade Fair. It offers panoramic views of Chennai and has appeared in films like Vaali and Vaaranam Aayiram.
Sacred Heart Church, Ooty
Built in 1897 by French missionaries, this Gothic-style church stands as a historic landmark in the Nilgiris. It was featured in Vellai Roja.
Presidency College, Chennai
Established in 1840, this institution is one of the oldest colleges in India and a striking example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Its grand corridors and colonial charm have made it a favorite for filmmakers, prominently seen in Aayutha Ezhuthu.
Marina Beach, Chennai
Stretching for 13 km, Marina Beach is one of the longest urban beaches in the world. A symbol of Chennai’s identity, it has been the setting for countless film sequences, including May Maadham, 7G Rainbow Colony, and Naan Mahaan Alla. The 2012 film Marina was entirely based on the beach’s hawkers.
Samanar Hills, Madurai
These hills, home to ancient Jain sculptures and inscriptions, have been a lesser-known but fascinating backdrop, notably seen in Mouna Guru.