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India and Pakistan are not friends and at best can be described as uneasy neighbours. However, every evening, since 1959, both countries keep aside their differences momentarily and indulge in an act which over time has taken the form of a much witnessed ceremony for tourists. This Republic day head to the Wagah border of Amritsar and witness this momentary ritual of friendship for yourself.
Wagah Border is around 30 km away from Amritsar. This is where the city of Amritsar of India and the city of Lahore of Pakistan is separated. Let's take a trip to Wagah Border to witness the 'Beating the Retreat' ceremony that happen there daily.
Photos and Content Courtesy: Ajay M K
Entering the Indo-Pak Border
Wagah Border can be visited on any day of the year as the ceremony called 'Beating the Retreat' is conducted daily. There is a parking area just before entering the area, from where you can take a walk to the border.
Flock of Tourists
Thousands of tourists reach the Wagah Border to witness the proceedings happening at the border between the two countries. Due to the heavy crowd, stories of pickpocketing are also not scarce.
Different Paths for Men and Women
As you go further, there is a board that directs men and women in different directions.
Special Security Zone
Since Wagah is the only road border from India to Pakistan, the area is highly secured with barbed wire fencing and other security measures.
The Border Security Force
This is the area where the military forces guard are always present, being vigilant to make sure that the country is not attacked from outside.
Swarna Jayanti Dwar
This is the gate that leads you to the exact border between India and Pakistan.
Reaching the Border
Though there is a road that passes through the gate, visitors are not allowed to take the road. There are stairs on both sides of the gate through which they can cross the gate.
Our Country, Our Pride
This is where we represent the nation to our neighbouring countries. Take pride in the moment.
The Wagah Border
This is the border that separates India from Pakistan, the two countries which were once together in British India.
The Ceremony
The 'Beating the Retreat' ceremony is what all the visitors come here for. Witness this proud moment as you watch the military forces perform the ceremony.
That's Pakistan!
Yes, this is where Pakistan represents the country. On their entry gate, you can see the image of Mohammed Ali Jinnah, who is their 'Father of the Nation'.
A Walk to Pakistan
The visitors are allowed to move towards the Pakistan gate in groups. The people standing in the front are also given Indian flags representing the nation.
The National Anthem
The National Anthem is sung here giving due respect to Mother India. This is where our journey to the Wagah Border ends.