Lowering of the flags at Wagah Border

The Wagah border closing ’lowering of the flags’ ceremony, or The Beating Retreat ceremony, is a daily military practice that the security forces of India (Border Security Force) and Pakistan (Pakistan Rangers) have jointly followed since 1959. The Wagah Border is only a short car ride from Lahore and the spectacle of the ceremony attracts many visitors from Pakistan. The other side seemed packed as well.

Above, ticket booth.

Above, security checkpoint.

Above, the building for spectators.

Above, the VIP section close to the border gate. I decided to go instead to an area with some height next to the stadium gate.

Above, the men section. Men and women have separate benches.

Above, one of the crowd warmers.

Above, the women section.

Above, chanting about the glory of Pakistan or God.

Above, Pakistan Rangers.

Above, opening the gate to shake hands at the beginning of the ceremony.

Above, some theatrics.

Above, start of the lowering of the flags.

Above, coming back with the flag.

Above, closing the gate for good.

Above, after the ceremony, the visitors in the VIP area can go to the border gate. Unfortunately, the guard refused me access.

Above, a Ranger posing with a group of Chinese tourists.

Above, posing with a crowd warmer. His bushy beard made him the most popular.

Above, back in the amphitheatre, looking at a miniature Pakistan.

Above, sunset.

Above, miniature Pakistan.

Above, an antelope in a park near the entrance.

Above, decorated truck waiting for the next morning and the opening of the border.