The mine produces approximately 325,000 to 400,000 tons of salt annually.
The interior contains a 50-foot-high bridge made of solid salt blocks over a brine pond.
The salt deposits in this region were formed about 800 million years ago due to the evaporation of an ancient sea.
The mine is lit by colorful LED lights that highlight the natural pink, white, and translucent hues of the salt rock.
The 'Badshahi Mosque' inside the mine features a mihrab and minarets carved entirely from salt bricks.
The mine contains a miniature replica of the Minar-e-Pakistan constructed from salt blocks.
The mine's ventilation system is natural, relying on the depth and layout of the tunnels.
It is the primary source of Himalayan pink salt in Pakistan, though true Himalayan deposits are nearby.
Khewra Salt Mine is the second largest salt mine in the world, located in the Pind Dadan Khan Tehsil of the Jhelum District in Pakistan. The mine features an extensive tunnel network stretching over 40 kilometers, with 19 levels of excavation. The interior contains a mosque constructed from salt bricks, alongside intricate salt sculptures and carvings. Visitors travel through the main tunnel system via an electric train that dates back to the early 20th century. The mine is renowned for its unique 'salt chambers,' including the assembly hall which reaches a height of 75 feet. It is a major site for both rock salt production and geological tourism, maintaining a constant internal temperature throughout the year. The site showcases the geological history of the Salt Range, with formations dating back to the Precambrian era.
The Assembly Hall with its salt-brick bridge and reflecting brine pond.
Bring a light jacket as the mine maintains a cool, constant temperature regardless of the outside weather.
Wear comfortable, non-slip walking shoes to navigate the occasionally uneven salt surfaces.
Bring a high-quality camera with low-light capability, as flash photography is often discouraged near delicate sculptures.
Avoid touching the salt walls and sculptures to prevent erosion and contamination from skin oils.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the mine chambers, especially within the salt mosque area; modest dress is recommended.
