Khewra Salt Mine: Journey into the World’s Second Largest Salt Mountain
Deep within the rugged Salt Range of Punjab lies one of Pakistan’s most extraordinary natural wonders. The Khewra Salt Mine, a massive underground labyrinth of shimmering pink and white crystals, has fascinated visitors for centuries. Known locally as the “Kingdom of Salt,” this incredible site is not just an active mining operation but also one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year .
The khewra salt mine is more than just a hole in the ground. It is a geological marvel, a historical treasure, and a place of breathtaking beauty. Walking through its tunnels, you are surrounded by walls of crystalline salt, some pure white, others tinged with rose and ruby hues that glow under strategically placed lights. This is a place where the Earth’s ancient history is exposed, layer by layer, and where the story of Pakistan’s mineral wealth comes alive.
This comprehensive guide will take you deep into the heart of this subterranean wonder. We will explore the fascinating khewra salt mine history, pinpoint the exact khewra salt mine location, and guide you through the incredible tourist attractions inside. Whether you are planning a visit or simply curious about this natural phenomenon, this article will provide everything you need to know about the khewra salt mine Pakistan proudly calls its own.
What is Khewra Salt Mine? An Introduction to the Salt Mountain
The khewra salt mine is the largest salt mine in Pakistan and the second largest in the entire world . It is the primary source of the famous pink Himalayan salt that has become a global phenomenon, used in cooking, spa treatments, and decorative lamps. The mine is not a single tunnel but an extensive underground network spanning multiple levels, with a total length of approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) of tunnels .
Key Facts at a Glance
- Location: Khewra, Jhelum District, Punjab, Pakistan
- Coordinates: 32°38′52.58″N 73°00′30.22″E
- Elevation: Approximately 288 meters (945 feet) above sea level
- Area: The underground mine covers 110 square kilometers (42 sq miles)
- Production: Over 350,000 metric tons per year
- Purity: About 99% pure halite (sodium chloride)
- Temperature: Constant 18-20°C (64-68°F) year-round
- Visitors: Approximately 250,000 tourists annually
The mine comprises nineteen stories, with eleven of them below ground level . From the entrance, the tunnels extend about 730 meters (2,400 feet) into the mountain . The salt extracted here is renowned for its high purity and characteristic pink color, which comes from trace minerals like iron, zinc, copper, and manganese .
The Fascinating History of Khewra Salt Mine
The khewra salt mine history is a captivating tale that spans over two millennia, involving ancient armies, Mughal emperors, Sikh rulers, British engineers, and modern-day Pakistan.
Discovery by Alexander the Great’s Army
The story of the khewra salt mine begins in 326 BC, during the campaign of Alexander the Great in the Indian subcontinent. As legend has it, Alexander’s army was passing through the region near the Jhelum River when his horses were noticed licking stones on the ground . The soldiers soon realized that the stones were actually rock salt. Ailing horses in the army recovered after licking these salt stones, revealing the medicinal and nutritional value of the local salt . This accidental discovery marked the beginning of the site’s long history, though large-scale mining would not begin for many centuries.
Mughal Era: The Beginning of Trade
It was during the Mughal era (1526-1857) that the salt reserves at Khewra began to be exploited on a commercial scale . The Mughals recognized the value of this pure salt and established trade routes that extended as far as Central Asia . Salt from Khewra became a valuable commodity, and the mines were worked in a rudimentary manner to meet the demands of the vast empire. It was also during this period that artisans began crafting decorative items from the unique salt crystals .
Sikh Rule and Management
Following the decline of the Mughal Empire, the region came under Sikh rule. The management of the salt mines was divided among Sikh leaders. Hari Singh Nalwa, the renowned Sikh Commander-in-Chief, controlled the Warcha mine, while Gulab Singh, the Raja of Jammu, held the Khewra mine . During this period, the salt continued to be a valuable resource, used both for consumption and as a source of revenue for the rulers .
British Development and the Mayo Salt Mine
The most transformative period in khewra salt mine history began in 1872, after the British took control of the Sikh territories . The British found the mining operations to be inefficient and dangerous, with irregular, narrow tunnels and poor working conditions . They tasked a mining engineer, H. Warth, with developing the mine systematically.
Warth is credited with creating the main tunnel that is still in use today and introducing scientific mining methods . He leveled the access road, improved ventilation and water supply, built warehouses, and introduced a better mechanism for salt extraction . He also pioneered the use of lathes to carve artistic pieces from the rock salt, recognizing its similarity to gypsum in physical characteristics . The mine was named “Mayo Salt Mine” in honor of Lord Mayo, the Viceroy of India who visited the site . The British also laid a 2 ft (610 mm) narrow gauge railway line to bring salt out of the mine, a system that still operates today for tourists .
Post-Independence Era
After Pakistan gained independence in 1947, the mine changed hands several times, eventually coming under the control of the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC) in 1974, which continues to operate it . Today, the khewra salt mine Pakistan is a thriving enterprise and a major tourist attraction, with its reserves expected to last for centuries to come.
Khewra Salt Mine Location and How to Reach
The khewra salt mine location is in the Pind Dadan Khan Tehsil of Jhelum District, in the Punjab province of Pakistan . It lies within the Salt Range, a mineral-rich mountain system that extends about 200 kilometers from the Jhelum River to the Indus River .
Distance from Major Cities
The khewra salt mine location is conveniently accessible from Pakistan’s major metropolitan centers:
- From Islamabad: Approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles)
- From Lahore: Approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) (some sources cite 260 km depending on the route )
- From M-2 Motorway: About 30 kilometers (20 miles) off the Lilla interchange
How to Get There
By Road: The most common way to reach the khewra salt mine is by road. Visitors can take the M-2 Motorway (Lahore-Islamabad Motorway) and exit at the Lilla interchange. From there, a well-marked road leads towards Pind Dadan Khan and then to Khewra. The drive through the Salt Range offers scenic views of the rugged, mineral-rich landscape.
By Train: Pakistan Railways has operated special tourist trains from Lahore and Rawalpindi to Khewra, making the journey itself a nostalgic experience . The Khewra railway station has been refurbished to accommodate these services. It is advisable to check with Pakistan Railways for current schedules and availability.
By Air: The nearest airports are in Islamabad and Lahore. From either city, visitors can hire a car or take a bus to reach the mine.
Exact Location Details
The khewra salt mine location places it at an altitude of about 288 meters (945 feet) above sea level . The mine entrance is situated at the base of the Salt Range, and the tunnels extend deep into the mountain. The surrounding town of Khewra has grown around the mining activity and provides basic amenities for visitors.
Geology of the Khewra Salt Mine
The khewra salt mine is a geological treasure, offering a window into the Earth’s distant past. The salt deposits are part of the Salt Range Formation, which dates back to the Ediacaran to early Cambrian periods, approximately 600 to 500 million years ago .
Formation of the Salt Deposits
The salt was formed when an ancient sea evaporated, leaving behind thick layers of salt and other minerals. Over millions of years, these layers were buried under sedimentary rocks and subjected to immense pressure and heat. The salt, being less dense than the overlying rocks, began to flow and deform, creating massive salt domes and structures .
Tectonic Activity
The collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which also created the Himalayas, further deformed the salt layers. The entire Salt Range Formation was thrust southward, creating a fold-and-thrust belt that underlies the Potohar Plateau . This tectonic activity folded and faulted the salt beds, creating the complex structures seen in the mine today. Some of the salt crystals within the mine are translucent, glowing beautifully when lit from behind .
Mineral Composition
The salt from the khewra salt mine is remarkably pure, consisting of about 99% halite (sodium chloride) . It also contains trace amounts of other minerals, including:
- Iron: Gives the salt its characteristic pink and reddish hues
- Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Chromium, Lead: Present as trace elements
These trace minerals not only contribute to the salt’s color but also to its perceived health benefits. The presence of iron ions (Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺) is what creates the range of colors from pure white through pink to deep red, depending on concentration.
Mining Operations and Production
The khewra salt mine is an active industrial site, and its operations are a marvel of engineering.
Mining Method
The mine uses the “room and pillar” method of mining . In this method, miners extract salt, creating large chambers or “rooms,” while leaving pillars of salt in place to support the roof. This technique ensures the structural stability of the mine. Only about half of the salt is removed, leaving the other half as supporting pillars. This careful approach has allowed the mine to operate safely for over 150 years.
Production Figures
The khewra salt mine is a major producer of rock salt. Its annual production exceeds 350,000 metric tons, accounting for nearly half of Pakistan’s total production of rock salt . The salt is used for:
- Culinary purposes: As table salt and cooking salt
- Industrial uses: As a raw material for soda ash, caustic soda, and other chemicals
- Decorative items: Lamps, vases, statues, and tiles
- Bath salts and spa products
Reserves
Estimates of the total salt reserves at Khewra vary widely, ranging from 82 million tons to over 600 million tons . At the current rate of extraction, the mine is expected to last for another 300 to 350 years . This vast reserve ensures that the khewra salt mine will continue to be a vital economic resource for generations.
Tourism at Khewra Salt Mine
The khewra salt mine is not just an industrial site; it is a world-class tourist attraction, drawing around 250,000 visitors every year . The Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation has invested significantly in developing tourist facilities, making the mine accessible and enjoyable for all.
The Train Ride into the Mountain
The adventure begins with a ride on the Khewra Salt Mines Railway, a 2 ft (610 mm) narrow gauge train that takes visitors deep into the main tunnel . This train, a legacy of the British era, adds a touch of nostalgia to the journey. As you travel into the mountain, the temperature drops to a pleasant 18-20°C, providing a cool respite from the outside heat.
The Mosque (Badshahi Masjid)
Deep inside the khewra salt mine, visitors can find a stunning mosque built entirely from salt bricks. The Badshahi Masjid, constructed about 50 years ago, features intricate designs and multi-colored salt bricks . It is a place of tranquility and a testament to the skill of the miners and craftsmen.
Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors)
One of the most beautiful sections of the mine is the Sheesh Mahal, or “Palace of Mirrors.” This area features salt crystals that are light pink and highly translucent . When illuminated, the walls sparkle and glitter, creating a magical, mirror-like effect. It is a photographer’s paradise and a highlight of any visit.
Other Attractions
The khewra salt mine is filled with incredible sights and artistic creations, including:
- Minar-e-Pakistan: A replica of Lahore’s famous monument, built from salt bricks
- Statue of Allama Iqbal: A tribute to Pakistan’s national poet
- Great Wall of China Model: An intricate salt model of the ancient wonder
- Mall Road of Murree Model: A charming replica of the famous hill station road
- Crystal Name of Muhammad (PBUH): An accumulation of salt crystals that naturally form the name in Urdu script
- Assembly Hall: A vast chamber 75 meters (245 feet) high
- Pul-Saraat: A salt bridge with no pillars, spanning a 25-meter-deep brine pond
- Salt Ponds: Numerous pools of salty brine inside the mine
- Café: A place to enjoy refreshments surrounded by salt walls
The Asthma Clinic
One of the most unique features of the khewra salt mine is a 20-bed clinical ward established in 2007 for the treatment of asthma and other respiratory diseases . This clinic uses halotherapy (salt therapy), where patients breathe air saturated with salt particles, believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The constant temperature, humidity, and pure salt-laden air create a therapeutic environment that attracts patients from across Pakistan.
Souvenir Shop
No visit is complete without stopping at the souvenir shop, where visitors can purchase a wide range of products made from the famous pink salt. These include:
These make for beautiful, unique gifts and a lasting memory of your visit to the khewra salt mine Pakistan.
The Many Uses of Khewra Salt
The salt from the khewra salt mine is renowned worldwide for its purity, mineral content, and distinctive pink color. It is marketed globally as “Himalayan Salt” and has found its way into kitchens, spas, and homes across the world.
Culinary Uses
Chefs and home cooks prize Khewra salt for its clean, pure taste and attractive appearance. It is available in various forms:
- Rock salt crystals: For grinding at the table
- Fine table salt: For everyday cooking
- Salt blocks: Used as cooking surfaces or serving platters
- Finishing salts: Large, flaky crystals for garnishing dishes
Therapeutic and Spa Uses
The trace minerals in Khewra salt are believed to offer various health benefits. In the world of wellness, it is used for:
- Bath salts: Soaking in salt-infused water is thought to soothe muscles and detoxify the skin
- Salt lamps: Believed to purify indoor air and create a calming ambiance
- Salt scrubs: For exfoliating and revitalizing the skin
- Halotherapy: As practiced in the mine’s asthma clinic, for respiratory conditions
Decorative Items
The beautiful pink and white salt is carved into a vast array of decorative objects. The translucence of the salt means that when these items are lit from within (like a lamp), they glow with a warm, amber light. This has made salt lamps immensely popular worldwide.
Industrial Applications
Beyond consumer products, the salt is also used as a raw material in various industries, including:
- Chemical industry: For producing sodium carbonate (soda ash), caustic soda, and chlorine
- Water treatment: For softening water
- Agriculture: As a mineral supplement for livestock
Best Time to Visit Khewra Salt Mine
Seasonal Considerations
The khewra salt mine can be visited year-round due to its constant internal temperature of 18-20°C . However, the best time to visit from the perspective of traveling to and from the site is during the winter months (October to March). During this period, the weather in Punjab is pleasant and cool, making the road journey comfortable.
Summer months (April to September) can be extremely hot in the Salt Range region. While the mine itself remains cool, the drive to and from the site can be uncomfortable. If visiting in summer, it is advisable to start early in the morning.
Visiting Hours
The mine is typically open to tourists from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It is advisable to check with the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation or local tourism authorities for any changes in timings, especially during public holidays.
Essential Travel Tips
To make the most of your visit to the khewra salt mine, keep these tips in mind:
What to Wear
- Comfortable clothing: The mine temperature is mild, so light layers are appropriate.
- Sturdy shoes: You will be walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.
- Light jacket: While the mine is not cold, a light jacket or sweater can be comfortable for the 20°C temperature.
What to Bring
- Camera: The photo opportunities inside the mine are incredible. The illuminated salt crystals create magical scenes.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated during your exploration.
- Cash: For souvenirs, train tickets, and any snacks. Card facilities may be limited.
- Face mask: While not mandatory, the mine environment is dusty in some areas.
Photography Tips
- The mine is dimly lit, so a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial.
- A tripod can help capture sharp images in the low light, especially in the Sheesh Mahal.
- The salt crystals reflect light beautifully, so look for interesting angles and compositions.
Facilities
The mine offers basic facilities for tourists, including:
- Restrooms at the entrance
- A café inside the mine
- Souvenir shops
- Train ride for transport within the mine
- Parking area for vehicles
Nearby Attractions
While the khewra salt mine is the main attraction, the surrounding Salt Range offers other points of interest for travelers:
- Kallar Kahar: A scenic lake and tourist resort about an hour’s drive from Khewra, known for its pleasant climate and peacocks.
- Katas Raj Temples: Ancient Hindu temples dating back centuries, located near Choa Saidanshah, about 80 kilometers from Khewra.
- Nandana Fort: Ruins of a historic hill fort with archaeological significance.
- Malot Fort: An ancient Hindu temple complex converted into a fort.
Conclusion: Why You Must Visit Khewra Salt Mine
The khewra salt mine is not just another tourist attraction; it is a journey into a world unlike any other. Walking through tunnels carved from pure salt, gazing at the glittering walls of the Sheesh Mahal, standing in awe beneath the vast Assembly Hall, and witnessing the devotion expressed in a salt-built mosque are experiences that stay with you forever.
From its accidental discovery by Alexander the Great’s horses over 2,300 years ago to its modern status as a global source of Himalayan salt, the khewra salt mine history is as rich and layered as the mineral deposits themselves. The khewra salt mine location in the beautiful Salt Range makes it an accessible and rewarding destination for travelers from Islamabad, Lahore, and beyond.
For Pakistanis, it is a source of national pride—a natural wonder that showcases the country’s geological wealth and industrial heritage. For international visitors, it offers a unique glimpse into a place where nature, history, and human ingenuity converge. Whether you are interested in geology, history, photography, or simply want to experience something truly unique, the khewra salt mine Pakistan proudly offers to the world deserves a top spot on your travel itinerary.
As you ride the narrow-gauge train into the heart of the salt mountain, feel the cool, pure air on your skin, and watch the pink crystals glow in the soft light, you will understand why this place is called the “Kingdom of Salt.” It is a kingdom that welcomes all who wish to explore its depths and discover its treasures.
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