Wagah border army parade
Lahore is situated only 30 kilometers from Pakistan’s border with India at Wagah. Even if you’re not planning on leaving, you should make your way here at least once to witness an amazing border parade ceremony that takes place each day. Hundreds of people from neighboring towns, and from throughout the country converge at the crossing and cram into the bleachers. What follows is a cacophony of singing, chanting and flag waving on both sides of the fence. It’s all undertaken in a spirit of fun and camaraderie. As the sun sinks lower, the noise rises to fever pitch. Then the marching soldiers arrive to thunderous applause. In a choreographed routine, the soldiers march up to the gate as the crowds shout for more. The spectacle continues on both sides of the border until it’s almost dark. The gates are now open and the ceremony is about to reach its peak. A trumpet signals the lowering of each nation’s flag. That’s followed by a quick handshake as both Pakistani and Indian soldiers reach out in friendly rivalry. Then its back to business and the gates are closed again, until tomorrow
