Wagah Border, in Punjab, India, is the only border road crossing between the countries of India and Pakistan. Lying on the historic Grand Trunk Road, near the holy city of sikhism, Amritsar, it is a fully operative border through which people and cargo move between the two countries.
Every evening, before sunset, the armed forces of the respective countries take part in a joint and elaborate ‘lowering of the flag ceremony.
For me as an Indian, coming here and witnessing the ceremony was an amazing patriotic experience and a deeper understanding into the hard work that our Indian armed forces put in to keep our country safe everyday!!
This is the main Wagah border gate between India and Pakistan.
The ‘lowering the flag’ ceremony is open to all civilians and visitors, though one has to abide by the rules & regulations of the armed forces, at the border and also during the whole ceremony.
This is first gate, called ‘Swarn Dwar’ while approaching Wagah border.
The crowds are seen to be believed, and this kinda crowd is there every day, 365 days a year!!!
Our Indian Army ropes in the visitors too, for a show of patriotism.
There is dancing to patriotic songs, even the most reticent and the elderly join in the fun!!
And then the Indian Army takes over, but it’s always Ladies’ first here too!!!
And then the boys join in…..
lot of marching and foot stomping..we are the best, that’s why!!!
Can you go as high as me…our Indian soldier seems to be indicating to the Pakistani compatriot!!
Both sides gathered at the gate ready for the main ceremony.
While a dapper soldier keeps the crowds in control..believe me, the patriotic fervor really gets out of hand sometimes!!
Flags of both India and Pakistan being lowered.
and end of showtime!!!
If one is visiting Amritsar, a trip to Wagah border is a must. It takes only an hour from Amritsar by car/bus or auto rickshaw.
So, go indulge in some patriotic fervor at Wagah Border!!!
p.s. you can also read my post on trip to Amritsar here
I visited wagah border back in 2002…I vividly remember how my heart was filled with patriotic feeling on hearing the bharat maata ki jai slogans… tx for sharing the post 🙂
InkMyTravel
Even I had been to Wahah Border on 15th August 2012. It was an amazing experience to be there on Independence Day. The thrill and excitement was to the core. Great blog.
The parade from Pakistan side of Wagah is also worth a watch. Interesting captures.
Really nice post 🙂 Would love to visit some time. And ya, nice pics too!
It gladdens my heart to see that somewhere people are getting along with each other. Now if we could only teach that to governments?!
This is amazing! I've seen a couple of times on tv.
ive heard so much abt this ceremonial event at the border…nice pics…
Awesome photos and post. Thank you.
hey u got good shots ..i think u went early there …when i went there ,i was late and cudnt get a goood seat :((
Sush
Thanks for sharing these spectacular pics of the fascinating daily routine at Wagah !
Sushmita, the photographs are wonderful. I have seen Wagha a cpl of times and have really enjoyed the energy there. Do try and visit Husainiwala as well. This is 12 km from Firozpur, Punjab. There are no crowds there and you can get better pics there.
What a great experience that must have been! It was great seeing these pictures. 🙂 Happy Independence day, Sush.
So nice of you to show us Wagha Border through your wonderful pictures-it was a real treat– i must see it one day.
Nice. thanks for detailed photos and write up. Should visit the border once
Lovely pictures! 🙂
Do check http://www.nikitabanerjee.com
Thanks for sharing this impressive ceremony with us. I can only imagine the thrill you must have felt seeing it in person.
Very interesting pictures!
the soldiers are interesting! happy india independence day today! 🙂
I have seen many photo features of this palce, but this is superb. Thanks for sharing.
wow it looks amazing and look at the crowd! and how beautiful is that sunset, i don't think i have ever seen such a sunset in real life
Had just heard about this ceremony. But had not anticipated the crowd and the elaboration in this ceremony which you say is held everyday. Will make it a point to visit if I get a chance!
I never thought that something like this could be an attraction! Definitely learned something today.
I went to another border near faridkot…not sure if its wagah or not but it was inspiring 🙂
When I had gone to Wagah border a few years back, I had taken my SLR. However, I was a bit late, so could not get proper angle to shoot. I don't think getting a professional SLR with lenses will be a problem.
I have plan go wagah border next year, it is allow to bring big camera there? i read the security stuff little bit difficult?
wow great pictures. Such great way to celebrate Independence day
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Omg, this is so cool! I can't believe that crowd, and to lower the flags and celebrate every night sounds like something that I'd love to experience. Thank you so much for your comment on my blog, I really appreciate it, hopefully I'll see you back soon!
xoxo,
Genie
http://www.uniqueandchicstyle.blogspot.com
Beautifully captured!
Jai Hind!!
Nice post and I really liked the title! 🙂
Cheers to Independence..
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Nice serie have you made…..i love this very much.
Greetings, Joop
The daily drill by our BSF Jawans is really worth seeing. Although I have not been there personally, I could infer from what is contained in your post by way of nice pictures and commentary. I have seen few videos.
Wow, this is very interesting! I really enjoyed the pictures! Thanks for the nice comment on my blog. Would you like to follow each other?
Would love to head here and witness this patriotic event. The place looks as crowded as a cricket stadium. Nice article Sushmita.
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