From Kedarnath to the Maldives: Inside the Most Iconic Bollywood Celebrity Holiday Spots

Have you ever scrolled through Instagram and noticed how celebrities always appear to be enjoying coconut water on private beaches, while you're just navigating the chaos of your Monday morning commute? It’s easy to feel like those glamorous travel spots are reserved for a select few, living in a world where it seems like you need a secret passcode to enter.

But here is a little secret: that velvet rope is mostly for show. Whether it’s the glitz of the French Riviera or the spiritual serenity of the Himalayas, many of the world's most iconic celebrity getaway locations are surprisingly accessible. You don't need a private jet or a seven-figure movie deal to walk the same cobblestones as your favourite stars.

From the lush backwaters of Kerala to the crystal clear waters of the Maldives, let’s look at where the stars are heading in 2026 and how you can book the same trip without breaking the bank.

Where the Stars Go: International Hotspots

When we think of where celebrities travel, we usually picture places like London, Dubai, or the Maldives. These spots are perennial favourites because they offer a mix of high-end luxury and total privacy.

1. London: The Royal Summer Playground

London is essentially a second home for the Kapoor clan (Kareena and Karisma are practically permanent residents during the summer). While they might stay at the Dorchester, you can experience the same "London vibe" by staying in a chic Airbnb in South Kensington or Notting Hill. Walking through Hyde Park or grabbing a coffee in Marylebone gives you that A-list feeling for the price of a latte.

2. The Maldives: The Ultimate "B-Town" Retreat

The Maldives has become the go-to destination for Bollywood celebrities. Whether it’s Alia Bhatt, Janhvi Kapoor, or Parineeti Chopra, it feels like someone from the industry is always there.

Skip the $2,000-a-night water villas at the private islands. Instead, stay on local islands like Maafushi or Dhiffushi. You get the same turquoise water, world-class snorkelling, and white sand at a fraction of the cost.

3. Dubai: Glamour in the Desert

Shah Rukh Khan famously has a home here, but Dubai is one of the most affordable celebrity travel spots if you plan it right. You can visit the same beach clubs in Jumeirah or shop at the Dubai Mall without spending like a billionaire. Visit during the shoulder season (like April or October) to get five-star hotels at three-star prices.

Bollywood’s Favourite Indian Escapes

You don’t have to cross an ocean to find celebrity travel destinations. In fact, some of the most stunning locations are right here in India, and they are often the ones stars visit when they want to "reconnect."

1. Kedarnath: Spirituality and Style

The rugged beauty of Uttarakhand has seen a massive surge in celebrity interest. Sara Ali Khan is a frequent visitor to Kedarnath, often sharing photos of her spiritual treks. This is a classic example of a high-profile location that is open to everyone. It’s not about luxury here; it’s about the raw, breathtaking landscape and the spiritual energy.

2. Goa: The Eternal Favourite

Goa is the ultimate celebrity getaway location. From Bipasha Basu’s beach days to the high-end villas of North Goa where the younger crowd hangs out, Goa never goes out of style.

To travel like a celeb, skip the crowded tourist beaches of the north and head to South Goa. Places like Palolem or Agonda offer that quiet, "private beach" feel that stars crave.

3. Kashmir: The Winter Wonderland

Lately, stars like Diljit Dosanjh have been putting Kashmir back on the map. Whether it’s a shikara ride on Dal Lake or skiing in Gulmarg, the "Paradise on Earth" is a staple for both film shoots and private vacations. It remains one of the most iconic Bollywood celebrity holiday spots because of its timeless, old-world charm.

How to Do "Celebrity Style" on a Budget

Planning a trip to these affordable celebrity travel spots is all about strategy. Here’s how to bridge the gap between "regular traveller" and "VIP guest":

• Timing is Everything: Visit during the "shoulder season", the weeks just before or after peak season. You’ll get the same weather and the same views, but the hotel rates will be slashed by half.
• Eat Where the Locals Eat: Celebrities often post about five-course meals, but they also love authentic local food. In Goa, a beach shack often has better fish curry than a five-star hotel.
• Book Experiences, Not Just Rooms: You might not be able to afford the Presidential Suite, but you can usually book a spa treatment or a dinner at the same resort. You get the "celeb experience" for a few hours without spending thousands.

Ultimately, celebrity travel destinations aren't special because of the price tag; they're special because of the experiences they offer. Whether you’re trekking through the mist in Kedarnath or watching the sunset in the Maldives, the view is the same whether you’re a movie star or a solo backpacker.