Ang Lee’s dazzling adaptation of the castaway fable – a boy adrift on the Pacific with a Bengal tiger – was filmed across three worlds: the streets of India, a giant wave tank in Taiwan, and the city of Montreal.
Where was Life of Pi filmed?
Life of Pi was filmed in Taiwan (the ocean scenes), India (Pi’s home) and Montreal, Canada.
Every Life of Pi location, explained
1
The ocean – Taiwan
The vast sea scenes used a huge, purpose-built wave tank in Taichung, Taiwan.
2
Pi’s hometown – India
Pi’s home used Puducherry (Pondicherry) and the hills of Munnar, Kerala, in India.
3
The framing story – Montreal
The adult Pi’s story was filmed in Montreal, Canada.
4
The zoo – India and Taiwan
The family zoo used locations in India and the Taipei Zoo.
Planning a visit
Puducherry and the hills of Munnar in India – Pi’s real home – are beautiful, accessible destinations.
Life of Pi Fun Facts
1
A giant wave tank The ocean scenes used a huge self-generating wave tank in Taichung, Taiwan.
2
Filmed in India Pi’s hometown used Puducherry and the Kerala hills.
3
A digital tiger The Bengal tiger was largely created with visual effects.
4
Lee's Oscar Ang Lee won Best Director for the film.
5
Based on a novel It adapts Yann Martel’s bestselling book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Life of Pi filmed?
In Taiwan (the ocean scenes), India (Pi’s home) and Montreal, Canada.
How were the ocean scenes made?
In a huge purpose-built wave tank in Taichung, Taiwan.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – Puducherry and Munnar in India are accessible.
Who directed it?
Ang Lee.
Is it based on a book?
Yes – Yann Martel’s novel.
