Wagah Border

Welcome to Wagah & Attari

The Wagah border, a significant tourist attraction that draws large crowds on both sides, is known for its daily flag-lowering ceremony, which takes place every evening before sunset. This ceremony symbolises the two countries’ cooperation and mutual respect, and Indian and Pakistani citizens, amongst many visitors worldwide, attend it every day.

Wagah and Attari are two border crossings between India and Pakistan. The Wagah border crossing is on the Grand Trunk Road between the Pakistani city of Lahore and the Indian city of Amritsar. In contrast, the Attari border crossing is approximately 3 kilometres from the Wagah border on the Indian side. The main difference is that Wagah is the only border crossing open for pedestrian traffic. In contrast, the Attari border is open for vehicular traffic, primarily used to move goods and commodities between India and Pakistan. It is an important trade route between the two countries and has a large cargo terminal on the Indian side.

Flag-lowering ceremony

While both crossings are essential points of contact and trade between India and Pakistan, the Wagah border is more well-known for its daily flag-lowering ceremony and attracts more tourists. The ceremony takes place every day, usually at 5:15 PM in the summer and 4:15 PM in the winter season, so make sure you plan your visit accordingly. Note it’s best to arrive at least an hour before the ceremony starts to get a good seat as it gets very crowded.

To attend the Wagah Border Ceremony, you must purchase tickets from the venue or through various online platforms. Booking the tickets in advance is advisable to avoid any last-minute rush or inconvenience. You must carry a valid photo ID proof along with the ticket to gain entry to the ceremony.

After flashing your foreign passport, travellers usually sit in separate VIP zones and observe the stark distinctions between Pakistan and India. Men and women sit separately in stadium-style seats on the Pakistan side, where the atmosphere is more serious. But on the Indian side, it’s a celebration of national pride. Females dance in the street as the music plays over the speakers while spectators wave Indian flags.

During the ceremony, soldiers from both sides march towards the border gate and display military drills and pageantry, including lowering the national flags of both countries. The ceremony ends with the gates being opened and the soldiers shaking hands with each other, a symbol of friendship and goodwill.

Please note it is advisable to dress appropriately as the ceremony is held outdoors. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as it can get quite hot during the day, and remember to bring sunscreen and a hat. Another essential tip to note is to bring your ID. Since the Wagah Border is a high-security area, you must carry valid ID proof and not bring prohibited items such as weapons, tobacco, or alcohol. Cameras and mobile phones are allowed.

Please follow the rules, as strict security measures are in place, and it’s essential to obey the rules and instructions given by security personnel and be respectful. The Wagah Border ceremony symbolises friendship and goodwill between India and Pakistan, so being respectful and courteous to soldiers and visitors from both countries is essential.

Attending the Wagah Border ceremony is an exciting and memorable experience. It will give you a great insight into the Wagah Borders’ long and complex history, as the border between India and Pakistan happened in 1947 following the partition of India. The crossing has seen its share of tension and conflict, but the daily flag-lowering ceremony symbolises the hope for peace and cooperation between the two countries.

Wagah Border Ceremony

How To Get There

By Road: The Wagah Border is about 28 km from Amritsar city centre, so you can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Amritsar to reach the border. There are also shared taxis and auto-rickshaws available from the city centre.

By Train: Amritsar is well-connected by train, and you can hire a taxi from the Amritsar railway station or take a local bus to reach the Wagah Border.

By Air: Amritsar has an international airport, Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, about 30 km from the Wagah Border.  

 

Please note it is advisable to check with the relevant authorities for any updates or restrictions before visiting the Wagah Border.

Places Of Interest

Partition Museum

Partition Museum

Located in Amritsar, this museum is dedicated to the India-Pakistan partition of 1947 and gives a detailed account of the events leading up to the partition, its aftermath, and its impact on people’s lives. Book here

Wagah Border Museum

Wagah Border Museum

This museum is located near the border and showcases the history of the India-Pakistan partition and the role of the Border Security Force (BSF) in safeguarding the border.

Book here

Jallianwala Bagh

Jallianwala Bagh

This historical park is about 30 minutes from the Wagah Border. It is a site of national importance and commemorates the tragic massacre of peaceful protesters by British troops in 1919. Book here

Golden Temple

Golden Temple

An iconic Sikh temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, is located in the heart of Amritsar and is about 35 minutes drive from the Wagah Border. It is one of the most visited religious sites in the world and is renowned for its stunning architecture and serene ambience. Book here

Durgiana Temple

Durgiana Temple

This Hindu temple, also known as Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, is located in Amritsar and is about 30 minutes drive from the Wagah Border—a spiritual temple dedicated to the goddess Durga, known for its ornate architecture and beautiful surroundings.

Wagah Border Gate

Attari Border
Attari Border
Attari Border
Attari Border

Final Thoughts

Attending the Wagah Border ceremony is an exciting and memorable experience. It will give you a great insight into the Wagah Borders’ long and complex history, as the border between India and Pakistan happened in 1947 following the partition of India. The crossing has seen its share of tension and conflict, but the daily flag-lowering ceremony symbolises the hope for peace and cooperation between the two countries.

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