The Change of Guard Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan will now be held from 8 to 9 a.m. starting March 7, as announced by the President’s Secretariat. This weekly ceremony, excluding Gazetted holidays, has introduced a registration fee of Rs 50 per visitor since February 22, 2025. The fee, payable online, is non-refundable and non-transferable, according to the official website.
The Change of Guard ceremony is a longstanding military tradition with historical roots. It involves the periodic rotation of guards and sentries at various official locations. At Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Ceremonial Army Guard battalion oversees this duty for the President of India. The President’s Bodyguard (PBG), established in 1773, is the oldest Regiment of the Indian Army and performs ceremonial duties for President Droupadi Murmu.
Over the years, the ceremony has undergone enhancements to make it more engaging for the public. Notable changes include an equestrian display by the Presidents’ Bodyguard in their ceremonial attire and a shift of the venue to the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan for better accessibility. The ceremony, lasting 30 minutes, features the PBG troops on horseback advancing to the tunes of the Army Brass Band, followed by the guard exchange and the playing of the National Anthem.
Visitors interested in witnessing the Change of Guard Ceremony can book their slots online, as per the Visitors’ Facilitation Cell. Indian citizens need to carry valid photo ID Cards, while foreigners must have their original passports for identification during the visit.
