Khewra Salt Mine: The Pink Wonder of Pakistan
The Khewra salt mine stands as one of the most incredible geological and historical marvels in the world. Located in the Pind Dadan Khan subdivision of the Jhelum District, it is the second-largest salt mine on the planet and the oldest in South Asia. Famous for its high-quality pink Himalayan salt, this subterranean wonderland attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. For many, the Khewra salt mine is not just an industrial site but a breathtaking tourist destination where history, science, and art converge deep beneath the earth’s surface.
The experience of entering the Khewra salt mine is unlike any other. As you travel through the tunnels, you are surrounded by walls of crystalline salt that shimmer in shades of pink, white, and red. The mine is a testament to the vast natural resources of the Salt Range in Punjab and serves as a primary source of the world-renowned Himalayan salt. Whether you are interested in the engineering of the tunnels or the therapeutic properties of the salt-rich air, a visit to this iconic site is a journey into the heart of a prehistoric sea bed.
The Fascinating Khewra Salt Mine History
The Khewra salt mine history is as legendary as the mine itself. It is said that the discovery of the salt deposits dates back to 326 BC during the expedition of Alexander the Great. Interestingly, it wasn’t the humans who discovered the salt first, but their horses. While Alexander’s army was resting in the Khewra region, the soldiers noticed that their horses were licking the stones on the ground. Upon investigation, they realized the rocks were made of salt, marking the beginning of the Khewra salt mine history.
For centuries, the salt was extracted on a small scale by local communities. However, the modern development of the mine began during the Mughal era and was later significantly expanded by the British in the 1870s. Dr. H. Warth, a British mining engineer, developed the “room and pillar” method of mining that is still used today. This technique ensures that only 50 percent of the salt is extracted, while the remaining 50 percent is left as pillars to support the massive structure above. This strategic approach in the Khewra salt mine history has allowed the mine to remain safe and productive for over a century.
Understanding the Khewra Salt Mine Location
If you are planning a trip, finding the Khewra salt mine location is quite straightforward for travelers coming from Islamabad or Lahore. The mine is situated about 160 kilometers from Islamabad and approximately 250 kilometers from Lahore. The most convenient way to reach the Khewra salt mine location is via the M-2 Motorway. Travelers can take the Lilla Interchange and then drive for about 30 kilometers toward the town of Khewra.
The Khewra salt mine location is nestled at the foothills of the Salt Range, a hill system that stretches across the northern part of Punjab. The drive to the mine is scenic, offering views of the rugged hills and traditional Punjabi landscapes. Because of its central location, it is a popular day-trip destination for families and school groups. The well-established road network ensures that the mine is accessible year-round, regardless of the season.
Exploring the Interior of Khewra Salt Mine Pakistan
Entering the Khewra salt mine Pakistan is a thrilling experience. Visitors are typically transported into the depths of the mine via a small electric trolley train, which follows the old tracks used for transporting salt. As the train moves deeper into the mountain, the temperature remains constant at around 18 to 20 degrees Celsius, providing a cool escape from the summer heat of the Punjab plains.
Inside the Khewra salt mine Pakistan, you will find several artistic structures made entirely out of salt bricks. These include a miniature version of the Badshahi Mosque, a model of the Minar-e-Pakistan, and a salt replica of the Great Wall of China. These structures are illuminated from within, creating a glowing effect that highlights the natural beauty of the pink salt. The sheer scale of the chambers, some reaching heights of over 75 feet, is a reminder of the massive volume of salt contained within these mountains.
Major Attractions Inside the Mine
- The Salt Mosque: A fully functional mosque made of colorful salt bricks.
- Sheesh Mahal: Also known as the Palace of Mirrors, this area features salt crystals that glow like diamonds.
- Pul-Siraat: A narrow bridge without pillars over a deep salt-water pond.
- The Assembly Hall: A massive chamber where visitors can marvel at the scale of the mining operations.
- Salt Water Ponds: Naturally occurring ponds with highly concentrated brine that create stunning reflections.
Health and Therapeutic Benefits of the Mine
The Khewra salt mine is not only a tourist attraction but also a center for wellness. The air inside the mine is saturated with salt micro-particles, which are believed to have therapeutic effects on respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. This practice, known as halotherapy or salt therapy, has led to the establishment of an experimental asthma clinic inside the mine.
Patients from across Pakistan and beyond visit the Khewra salt mine to spend time in these salt-rich chambers. The sterile, allergen-free environment is said to help clear the lungs and improve breathing. Beyond the respiratory benefits, the Himalayan salt extracted here is widely used in cooking and spa treatments globally, prized for its mineral content including magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Khewra Salt Mine
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to the Khewra salt mine, keep the following practical information in mind. The mine is open to the public daily, and there is a nominal entry fee that covers the train ride and a guided tour.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some of the paths inside the mine can be uneven or damp.
- Timing: Try to arrive early in the morning, especially on weekends, to avoid the large crowds and long queues for the train.
- Clothing: While the mine is cool, it is not freezing. Standard light clothing is usually sufficient, though a light wrap might be comfortable for those sensitive to the cool air.
- Photography: Bringing a camera is a must. The illuminated salt structures offer unique photography opportunities, but ensure your flash is off to capture the natural glow of the salt bricks.
- Souvenirs: Outside the mine, there are many shops selling salt lamps, carvings, and edible salt. These make for excellent and authentic souvenirs.
The Economic Impact of the Mine on Pakistan
The Khewra salt mine Pakistan is a vital pillar of the national economy. It produces over 350,000 tons of salt per year, with reserves estimated to last for several centuries. The salt is exported to countries all over the world, where it is branded as the “Pink Himalayan Salt.” This industry provides employment to thousands of local miners and workers in the processing and packaging sectors.
In addition to industrial extraction, the tourism revenue generated by the Khewra salt mine supports the local community in the town of Khewra and the surrounding Jhelum district. The mine is managed by the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC), which ensures that the extraction is done sustainably while maintaining the site’s status as a world-class heritage and tourist location.
Conservation and Future of the Site
As one of the oldest mines in the world, conservation is a top priority for the authorities at the Khewra salt mine. The “room and pillar” system is strictly monitored to prevent any structural collapses. Furthermore, efforts are being made to modernize the tourist facilities, including better lighting, improved train services, and enhanced information centers to educate visitors about the geological history of the Salt Range.
Education plays a big role in the future of the mine. Many universities and researchers visit the site to study the rock salt formations and the tectonic history of the region. By balancing industrial needs with tourism and conservation, Pakistan ensures that the Khewra salt mine remains a functional and beautiful landmark for generations to come.
Conclusion and Your Next Trip
A visit to the Khewra salt mine is an unforgettable adventure that takes you beneath the surface of the earth into a world of pink crystals and ancient history. From the legendary discovery by Alexander’s horses to the modern-day therapeutic clinics, every aspect of the mine is filled with wonder. Whether you are walking through the glowing Sheesh Mahal or taking the train through the historical tunnels, the mine offers a unique perspective on Pakistan’s rich natural heritage.
The Khewra salt mine stands as a symbol of the country’s diverse beauty, offering something for everyone—history lovers, science enthusiasts, and families alike. The sheer scale and beauty of the subterranean chambers are something that must be seen to be believed.
Are you ready to explore the glowing tunnels of the world’s second-largest salt mine? At PTCP Tourism, we offer specialized day trips and multi-day tours that include the Khewra salt mine as a key destination. We handle all the logistics, from comfortable transport to guided insights, ensuring you have a seamless experience at this national treasure.
Visit our website at https://ptcptourism.com/ to book your visit to the Khewra salt mine today. Let us take you on a journey to the heart of the Salt Range.