Our visit to Pakistan

Bill composed a list of the countries he wanted to visit on our trip – 1/3 of the way down it said Pakistan. Knowing Bill it had one of two meanings: we were going there come hell or high water or he knew darn well we couldn’t and he was trying to get a reaction out of me.

My response – no and hell no!

I was a bit worried when the we flew to the town of Amritsar, India only 28 kilometers from Pakistan. I keep reiterating my mantra…

Bill told me Amritsar was home to the highest population of Sikhs and since we have learned about the Buddhist and Hindus it would be a place to learn another spiritual sect.

So… off we headed last night – the sign read Lahore, Pakistan.

Of course, we couldn’t get into Pakistan without a visa but we did go to the changing of guards at the border.

A showdown between Pakistan and India to see who’s military can out perform and out stage the other and who’s country has the best cheering section!!!

The crazy process of getting to the staging area is like a mad dash for free seats at a World Cup soccer match. I was more worried about getting trampled by the thousands of people than being captured and held for ransom by Pakistan.

Great fun was had by all. Bill got to see Pakistan and I felt safe.

Elote asada at the border

Ice pop

Getting ready to open the gate

Men’s line or men’s riot

Woman’s group – they look mild in this photo – some were ruthless. Bill was a bit concerned when they split us up.

First pat down had to go thru the line with our arms up. We were not allowed to bring purses or any sort of bag – only cameras.

Pakistan

India

Indian women’s section – so colorful – there was a mixed (family & friends section too)

Pakistani women’s section

More of India’s section

More of Pakistan

Indian military guard in the showdown

Pakistani and Indian military at the border

The military have a choreographed march – either one at a time or a few together

The soldiers walk briskly towards the border kicking their legs high above their head then stomping firmly on the ground with a stern face. It is comical.