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Read More on Wagah Border
History
The Wagah Border Ceremony, also known as the Beating Retreat Ceremony, began in 1959 when the governments of both countries agreed. It is a symbol of the rivalry between the two countries as well as their collaboration and friendship. Aggression and hostility between the two countries have waned significantly over the years. BSF women guards have been a part of this ceremony since July 2011.
The Wagah-Attari Border Ritual, also known as the lowering of the flags ceremony, takes place at the Pakistan-India border gate. This military drill, which has taken place every day since 1959, begins two hours before dusk. The ceremony, which is jointly conducted by the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) and the Pakistan Rangers, draws tourists from all across the country, making the Wagah Border one of the most famous tourist spots in Amritsar.
The practice is a 30-minute drill to lower the national flags and formally close the border between the two countries till sunrise. It all begins with a large procession of soldiers from both sides of the border. Then, in perfectly timed movements, the iron gates at the border are opened and the national flags on both sides are down. Soldiers from both sides shake hands after the flags are folded, and the iron gates are closed, signaling the end of the ritual.
Architecture
Activities
At the Wagah-Attari Border, a stadium has been built where people can sit and watch the Indian Border Security Force or BSF conduct rituals.
You'll also be able to see our soldiers' gallantry and discipline on display through numerous demonstrations and activities.
Tips for visiting
- Due to the presence of jammers in the areas near the Wagah Border, no cell phone service is accessible.
- The entrance gate is extremely crowded, but once you pass through, you will be directed to the appropriate stands. Women must queue on the right and males on the left at the admission gate.
- For the visitors, proper seating arrangements are prepared. Women are given priority seating, whereas men are allowed to sit anywhere. The entire structure resembles a stadium. As a result, regardless of where you sit, you will have the same view.
- For foreign tourists, there are distinct stands. It's the second-best seat in the house, right behind the VIPs. If you are a foreign national, bring your passport with you to claim this seat.
Best time to visit
Winter and summer are the finest times to visit the Beating Retreat Ceremony. In the winter, the ceremony begins at 4:15 p.m., while in the summer, it begins at 5:15 p.m. It lasts for approximately 50 minutes. Because space is limited, you must arrive at least an hour ahead of time to attend the event.
Nearby Atractions
- Sadda Pind
- Sri Harmandir Sahib
- Gobindgarh Fort
- Amritsar Heritage Walk & Golden Temple Tour
- Partition Museum
Nearby market/ shopping places
- I.D.H Market: In this market, you can get almost everything you require in your daily life.
- Vegetable Market: This market provides you with fresh groceries and vegetables.
- Medicine Market: This market is famous for providing every kind of medicine required at a wholesale rate.
- Dharam Singh Market: This market is good for buying cheap and trendy clothes.
Nearby Hotels
- Country Inn & Suites
- Taj Swarna
- Hotel Shiraz Continental
- Fairfield by Marriott Amritsar
- The Fern Residency
Interesting Facts About Wagah Border
- Soldiers from both countries are appointed and trained specifically for the Beating Retreat Ceremony.
- Soldiers that participate in the event are required to have a mustache and beard, for which they are paid more.
- Soldiers from both sides march by raising their legs as high as they can during the event.
- Before the Aman Setu became operational in Kashmir in 1999, Wagah was the sole road crossing point between India and Pakistan.
- Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman of the Indian Air Force was released from Pakistan on March 1, 2019, and crossed the border into India. The ceremony was canceled on that day due to administrative restrictions, as his release was set for the afternoon.
