Cross Border Rivalry with Pakistan in Attari

So another major "tourist" attraction in Amritsar is to visit the India/Pakistan border for an elaborate closing ceremony at sunset.

There were definitely some great scenes from the 30 minute journey to there-

Crowded on the back of a scooter

On a bike rickshaw-

Peering out the back

Popcorn-wallahs



And at the border itself, both the India and Pakistan side had stadium seating filled to capacity eagerly anticipating the show to come...
India side-

Pakistan side (on the Pakistan side men and women sat on opposite ends)-

Close up of a guard-


The Attari border was almost like a sporting event. There were national chants and plenty of flag waving galore. It was a source of pride for kids to come out and parade the Indian flag in front of the frenzied crowds.



Flag waving AT the Pakistan side.


And of course, what would a party in India be like without some Bhangra???!!!!

More Scenes from the Golden Temple

Religious prostrations at one of the entrances to the Golden Temple.


Pilgrims circling around on the Parkarma, the marble walkway surrounding the pool.


Bathing in the holy waters.



Definitely long lines to go inside the main temple, but taking advantage of the "tourist pass" (membership has it's privileges), we got to enter through the exit. The Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib, is kept inside under watch by priests chanting and singing. No cameras were allowed so no photos unfortunately.



The Golden Temple definitely has a very communal atmosphere as well. Water is made available to thirsty pilgrims, and plenty of people were willing to clean plates.





Without a doubt, a very special place.