Kahani 7: The Golden Detour – From Interlaken to DDLJ Shooting Location

 

The Golden Detour – From Interlaken to DDLJ Shooting Location

 

It was finally time to say goodbye to Interlaken, a place that had wrapped us in snow, nostalgia, and so many memories. But as always, while the next destination was fixed (Luzern), the in-between was open to adventure.

With our train to Luzern scheduled for the evening and a good 8 hours in hand, we stood there with our bags packed, hearts full, and minds a little confused: “Now what?” And then came the idea 💡 — Golden Pass Premium!

 

We already had our Swiss Pass (which includes economy seats), but this time, we wanted to feel that Swiss luxury. So, we upgraded to Golden Pass Premium class -because why not? Travel isn’t just about the destination; it’s about making the journey unforgettable too.

 

Bags Down, Windows Up

 

We safely dropped our luggage at the Interlaken luggage room (for a surprisingly nominal fee), grabbed some quick snacks, and hopped onto the Golden Pass panoramic train towards Gstaad. From the moment we stepped into that coach - it felt like entering a movie scene. Wide panoramic windows, plush cushioned seats, heated comfort, and views that didn’t need any filters. You don’t know whether to look at the left, right, or straight ahead. Every second, the outside scenery changed like a living painting — valleys, chalets, pine forests, and snow-kissed hills.

 

A Walk Through DDLJ & Bollywood Shooting Location

 

Although many go all the way to Montreux, this time we stayed committed to our North + Central Swiss plan (South can wait... Next trip goals!).

We reached Gstaad and it instantly felt familiar, not because we had been there before, but because Bollywood had. We explored the Saanen bridge (yes, the "Palat… Palat… Palat" bridge), the little church from the film, and strolled through cobbled paths where DDLJ had left its marks. We shot a few videos of our own — nothing cinematic, but full of laughter and the kind of joy only travel brings.

 

A Slight Delay (Surprise!)

 

As we made our way back to Interlaken, we faced something unexpected — a delay. Yes, a rare delay in a Swiss train! But hey, it gave us some bonus time to slow down, sip a hot drink, and simply sit with our thoughts. Eventually, we made our connection to Luzern and were welcomed by a different kind of surprise — a cold drizzle. But thanks to those mini umbrellas we picked up earlier (you know, the ones we almost didn’t buy), we were ready!

A short local bus ride later, we reached our hotel, checked in, dropped our tired selves on the bed, and took a moment to just... breathe.

 

Comfort Food in Cold Weather

Dinner was like a hug as we found a cozy Keralite restaurant nearby and dug into some warm South Indian food. Spices, rice, and that unmistakable aroma of home… after days of cheese, chocolate, and bread, this felt grounding.

 And just like that Kahani 7 came to an end. With wet jackets, tired feet, full stomachs, and excited hearts, we tucked in for the night so that we are ready to explore the soulful city of Luzern the next day.

 

Final Thought

What began as a day without a plan turned into one of the most spontaneous and soul-satisfying experiences of our Swiss journey. There’s something magical about letting the day lead you — and Switzerland, with all its seamless connectivity and scenic surprises, is the perfect place to do that. From the luxury of the Golden Pass Premium coach to the nostalgic charm of Gstaad and the rainy welcome in Luzern, Kahani 7 reminded us that sometimes the detours become the real destination.

It was a day of contrasts where we had warmth and rain, mountain peaks and cozy dinners, unplanned moments and unforgettable memories. And as we closed the day under soft hotel lights with the comfort of Keralite spices warming our soul, we knew the reason this is why we travel. Not just to tick places off a list, but to feel something deeper with every kilometer.

💡Travel Tips:

• Golden Pass is included in the Swiss Pass (economy), but upgrading to Premium class is worth it for at least one leg — especially between Interlaken and Gstaad/Montreux. Book your upgrade online or at the station.
• Use the luggage room at stations like Interlaken OST — very convenient and affordable.
• The train on this route can be rescheduled or cancelled sometimes due to technical issues in the railway line – so plan your journey time well in advance.
• Always carry a mini umbrella in Switzerland — rain appears like a plot twist!