Lahore is just 23 Kms away and that is probably one of the most exciting aspects of visiting the Attari Wagah border. You get to see Pakistan and its people so close, a reminder of the days when there was no border and it was one large country. The partition has left scars on either side of the border and permission to visit across the gates is almost impossible.
However, what brings visitors to this border town is the beating retreat ceremony or the flag lowering ceremony that happens here every evening during sunset. Located close to Amritsar, Attari is the border town on Indian side and Wagah is the border town in Pakistan. The ceremony starts with Indian film songs and children running with Indian flags. Post that, India's BSF and Pakistan's Rangers vie for attention and applause with drill and parade showcasing their patriotism on either side of the gate. It's an act that would definitely give you goosebumps. The ceremony which ends with lowering of the flags, displays the patriotism, rivalry and brotherhood between the two countries which 70 years ago lived as one.
Travel Tips:
- Reach an hour early to get the best seats. The ceremony takes place at 5.15 PM. During winters, it starts an hour earlier.
- No bags (except small purses) are allowed to be taken inside and will have to be deposited near the main road.
Navigator:
Attari is 29 Kms from Amritsar and takes about 45 minutes to reach. You can either hire a taxi or take the public bus/ train to Attari from Amritsar. If travelling by train or bus, the last couple of kilometers will have to be covered by foot or by cycle rickshaw.
Just listening to the National Anthem gives me goosebumps; I'm certain this would have a greater effect.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the pictures from there, Nomad.
Hair raising experience. Loved it.
DeleteI live close by and it is such a pity that I never went to Amritsar and beyond! Nice pictures!
ReplyDeleteHead there soon. It's an awesome experience.
DeleteThis place will give you goosebumps.the level of patriotism you will never see before when the jawans come for parade. Entry to this place is free. You can enjoy the parade show here. Its 30Km away from amritsar city center
ReplyDelete