Discover the Filming Locations of 'The Serpent': Where Was This Gripping Series Shot?

Unmasking the Backdrop: Where Was The Serpent Really Filmed?

While The Serpent is primarily set in locations across the hippie trail in Asia, including Bangkok, Thailand, Nepal, and India, the actual filming process involved a few key locations. The production team primarily filmed on location in Thailand, meticulously recreating the atmosphere of the 1970s.

Bangkok, Thailand: The bustling capital city of Thailand served as a crucial backdrop for much of the series. Many pivotal scenes depicting Sobhraj's Kanit House apartment complex, where he often lured his victims, were filmed in and around Bangkok. The production sought out locations that still retained the feel of the 1970s, immersing viewers in the era's aesthetic. While the actual backpacker hotel where Sobhraj operated is different from the one depicted, Bangkok's vibrant streets and architectural styles authentically represent the setting.  

Hua Hin, Thailand: This coastal resort town south of Bangkok also featured in The Serpent. With its beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Hua Hin provided a contrast to the urban intensity of Bangkok and likely stood in for various other seaside locations mentioned in the series.  

Hertfordshire, England: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, production faced unexpected challenges and had to halt filming in Thailand in March 2020. When filming resumed in August 2020, the crew completed the remaining scenes in Hertfordshire, England. This might come as a surprise, but the resourceful production team managed to recreate various international locations, including those meant to be in India, France, and other parts of Bangkok, within the UK county. This demonstrates the ingenuity of filmmaking and how different locations can be cleverly disguised to fit the narrative.  

Stepping into Sobhraj's World:

While you might not be able to visit the exact Kanit House as depicted in the series (as it was a set or a cleverly chosen existing building), exploring Bangkok allows you to soak in the atmosphere that defined The Serpent's setting. Imagine the bustling streets, the tropical climate, and the sense of adventure – and danger – that pervaded the era.

Key Takeaways for Film Location Enthusiasts:

Authenticity on Location: The production prioritized filming in Thailand to capture the genuine essence of the story's setting.

Pandemic Adaptation: The use of locations in Hertfordshire highlights the flexibility and creativity required in filmmaking, especially during unforeseen circumstances.

A Glimpse into the Past: Watching The Serpent and understanding its filming locations offers a unique window into 1970s Southeast Asia.

For fans of The Serpent, knowing where this captivating series was filmed adds another layer of appreciation to the storytelling. While the actual events were harrowing, the dedication to creating an authentic visual experience through its diverse filming locations is undeniable. So, next time you watch The Serpent, pay close attention to the backdrops and appreciate the journey the cast and crew took to bring this chilling true story to life across continents.