VWCOP's next outing is to the Khewra Salt mines.
When: SATURDAY October 13th, 2012
Time: 0930 Late comers can catch up directly at the mines
Meet point: Islamabad motorway toll plaza
The Khewra Salt Mine (or Mayo Salt Mine) is located in Khewra, north
of Pind Dadan Khan,[ an administrative subdivision of Jhelum District,
Punjab, Pakistan. It is Pakistan's largest and oldest salt mine and
the world's second largest. It is a major tourist attraction, drawing
up to 250,000 visitors a year. Its history dates back to its discovery
by Alexander's troops in 320 BC, but it started trading in the Mughal
era. The main tunnel at ground level was developed by Dr. H. Warth, a mining engineer, in 1872, during British rule. After partition the Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation took over the mine, which still remains the largest source of salt in the country, producing more than 350,000 tons per annum of about 99% pure halite. Estimates of the reserves of salt in the mine vary from 82 million tons to 600 million tons. (Wikipedia)
Pls bring a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water. Lets not chance Khewra restaurants! We plan to drive on the M-2 motorway one way and return via the Grand Trunk (G.T.) Road.
Entry fee to the mines is Rs. 30 per person, if you wish to ride in a
trolley (as opposed to walking) it is another Rs. 50 per person and
car parking is Rs.30
BRING A FLASHLIGHT, its dark in there.....
