Things To Do
in Khewra
Khewra is a historic town located in the Punjab province of Pakistan, known for being home to the world's second largest salt mine. The Khewra Salt Mine is a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Khewra Gorge and the Salt Range mountains.
In addition to mining, Khewra is also known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Khewra Salt Mine, one of the largest and oldest salt mines in the world. Explore the fascinating chambers filled with salt formations and learn about the mining process.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling authentic Pakistani cuisine. Afterward, take time to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the picturesque views.
Head to a nearby viewpoint to catch the sunset over the mountainous landscape. End your day with a relaxing cup of tea at your accommodation.
Visit the Mining Museum located within the Khewra Salt Mine to gain insight into the history of salt mining. Take a guided tour to see the impressive salt structures and learn interesting facts.
Savor a midday meal at a local eatery and try famous dishes like biryani or karahi. Post-lunch, visit the nearby area for short hikes and nature walks to admire the lush landscapes.
Return to Khewra and enjoy a casual stroll through the town. Finish your day with a dine-out experience, perhaps at a rooftop restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance as one of the largest salt mines in the world.
- Attractive tourist destination with unique formations and structures made of salt.
- Employment opportunities for local residents in mining and tourism sectors.
- Source of various health benefits due to the therapeutic properties of salt mines.
- Contributes significantly to the local economy and infrastructure development.
- Environmental concerns regarding mining practices and their impact on local ecosystems.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure in some areas.
- Challenges related to road and transportation accessibility for tourists.
- Economic dependency on a single industry, which can be vulnerable to market fluctuations.
- Potential health risks for miners due to exposure to dust and other working conditions.
Best Activities in Khewra
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Khewra Salt Mines, one of the world's largest salt mines, and explore the underground tunnels and chambers. The mine also offers opportunities for hiking and photography.
Explore the ancient Hindu temples at Katas Raj, located near Khewra. These temples are surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, making it a great spot for outdoor exploration and cultural discovery.
Embark on a trekking adventure in the Salt Range, which surrounds Khewra. The diverse landscapes and trails make it a great location for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience nature and outdoor activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Khewra with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Khewra
Visit one of these nice places.
The salt mine offers stunning underground chambers and tunnels, along with unique salt formations that make for great photo opportunities.
This historic fort provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area and the Salt Range, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
The dam provides a picturesque setting with the surrounding hills and water, making it a great location for capturing scenic views.
Located near Khewra, these ancient temples and the surrounding landscape offer beautiful and culturally significant photo opportunities.
Food in Khewra
Khewra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A lightly spiced minced meat patty, flavored with various herbs and cooked in ghee. Best enjoyed at the local eateries in the bazaars of Khewra.
Must-Try!
Whole roasted lamb marinated with a mix of local spices and stuffed with rice. It is a popular celebratory dish in Khewra and can be found at traditional restaurants and events.
A rich and flavorsome meat dish cooked with a blend of yogurt, spices, and nuts. It is available at local restaurants and is often served with naan or rice.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Khewra better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling market streets of Khewra to find an array of street food stalls offering local favorites such as samosas, pakoras, and fresh fruit chaat. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the delectable flavors of chaat, a savory snack made with chickpeas, potatoes, and tangy chutneys.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet others with a handshake and a friendly smile. When visiting someone's home, it is polite to remove your shoes before entering and to accept any food or drink offered as a sign of hospitality.
In Khewra, respect for elders is highly valued. It is important to address elders with respectful language and defer to their opinions in family and community matters.
When visiting or interacting with locals, it is important to be mindful of local customs and traditions. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion unless it is appropriate to do so.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Khewra with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Khewra
Ensure a smooth experience
In Khewra, Pakistan, tipping is not a common practice in most establishments. However, in upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, in which case tipping is not expected. If a service charge is not included, a 5-10% tip may be appropriate.
In Khewra, Pakistan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's always advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions. It's also important to note that foreign currency may not be accepted, and it's best to exchange money at authorized currency exchange centers.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Khewra.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather and blooming flowers. Many cultural festivals take place during this time.
Another great time to visit with mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.
Cool to cold temperatures, but you can experience the stunning Salt Mines and unique winter activities in the area.
Hot and humid weather, but a good time for exploring the underground Salt Mines to escape the heat.
Khewra at Night
Hiking in Khewra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
While primarily a tourist attraction, the area around the Khewra Salt Mine offers several hiking opportunities with stunning views of the salt formations and surrounding landscape.
Located about 200 km from Khewra, this national park has numerous trails for hiking and is known for its biodiversity and natural beauty, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you're willing to travel further (approximately 300 km), Fairy Meadows offers breathtaking hikes with stunning views of Nanga Parbat, one of the highest peaks in the world.
Approximately 280 km from Khewra, Nathia Gali is known for its scenic hiking trails and picturesque landscapes, suitable for all levels of hikers.
Located around 200 km from Khewra, it's a less-known gem that offers beautiful hiking trails with serene landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Khewra through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Khewra by plane.
The main international airport serving Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, and located approximately 150 km from Khewra.
Located in Lahore, this international airport is around 200 km from Khewra and serves as a major gateway for travelers.
Situated in Multan, approximately 200 km from Khewra, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located near Sialkot, around 230 km from Khewra, it is the first and only privatized airport in Pakistan.
Located in Peshawar, approximately 260 km from Khewra, this airport provides international connections mainly to the Middle East.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Khewra, Punjabis are known for their rich culture and contribution to agriculture and trade.
This group primarily consists of migrants from other regions of Pakistan who communicate in Urdu, often involved in business and education.
A significant minority, Pashtuns in Khewra may engage in various professions ranging from mining to local business.
Siraiki speakers make up a smaller demographic in Khewra, contributing to the multicultural tapestry of the city.
Includes various smaller ethnic and cultural groups, adding to the diversity of Khewra.
The Soul of Khewra
Discover the essence of Khewra through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Khewra, as it is throughout Pakistan. It attracts widespread participation and support from the local community.
Field hockey has a significant following in Khewra, with many local teams and tournaments organized regularly.
Football is gaining popularity in Khewra, especially among the youth, with various local leagues and informal matches held.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and communities in Khewra, offering recreational opportunities for both boys and girls.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport that is also popular in Khewra, reflecting the cultural heritage and community spirit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khewra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Pakistani cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Khewra offer delectable vegetarian dishes such as Daal (lentil curry), Sabzi (vegetable stir-fry), and Chana Masala (spiced chickpeas). Some establishments also provide vegan options upon request, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for non-meat eaters.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can opt for rice-based dishes like Biryani or seek out restaurants that offer gluten-free roti (flatbread) made from alternative flours such as chickpea or millet. Communication with the chefs or staff regarding dietary restrictions is recommended to ensure a pleasant dining outing.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Khewra with these cultural adventures.
