Jhelum, a place of heritage importance, has mesmerizing views, natural forests, historic happenings, and dam sites, entrancing tourists to visit.
Jhelum – population wise 44th largest city of Pakistan – is located
in the north of Punjab province. The city is predominantly known for providing
many soldiers to British Army before independence. While exploring the city, it
is mainly consisting of many tourist sites, but Khewra Salt Mine, Fort Rohtas,
a monument of Alexander the Great, and Tilla Jogian complex of ancient temples,
are exceptional. But ironically, the government of Pakistan, and international tourist
organizations ignore Jhelum and its preciously designed sites for many years. The
city is also famous for its many historic sites like temples and forts; as well
as, tourist spots like Mangla Dam, century old infrastructures, and
temples. The city, however, is rich with Punjabi culture, generosity of people,
history, food, and many more. Therefore, Jehlum is a place – full of history
and mysteries – worth visiting during the move on GT road or on vacations. In
this blog, I will educate and suggest about the historic places and will tell
you that why these places be visited.
Why Jhelum is to be Visited
Jhelum is a small district of Pakistan situated on the bank of the river
with the same name Jhelum river. Jhelum, for instant, is one of the old cities
of Pakistan, which remained alive in the past for lots of historic happenings. It
is a place where a historic battle of Hydaspes was fought between
Alexander the Great and King Porus in 326 BC. To keep alive the history, Alexander’s monument was built by the
Government of Pakistan and the Embassy of Greece, where foreigners often pay a visit
to this place. The other prominent thing to visit, is the world’s
second-largest salt mine, which is known by the name of Khewra salt mine.
Similarly, Thilla Jogian is also, a mesmerizing place one can visit, consisted
of an ancient Hindu Temple and a monastic complex. Last but not the least,
Rohtas Fort is another historic tourist setup situated in the outskirts of Jhelum
city. Therefore, this city will briefly enlighten you with the history.
River Jhelum
One of the five rivers of Punjab, Jhelum River, is the tributary of the
Indus River – which makes the region more natural and historically interesting.
It starts from Pir Panjal Range and passes through Kashmir valley, while It ends in a
confluence with the Chenab River in the
Jhang District. It, undoubtedly, gives a
glimpse of the beautiful scenery. The green fields around the river, small
jungles, and rain forests are the precious natural places. Similarly, Mangla
Dam is the seventh-largest earth-filled water reservoir built on the Jhelum
River back in 70s. Water from the dam is used to irrigate the western agriculture
part of the province Punjab. Mangla dam is also a famous and well-established
tourist spot to visit – also famous for Water Sports Club Mangla. Thus, the
river is famous naturally, historically, and culturally.
Khewra Salt Mine
Khewra salt mine, accessible via M2 at Lillah Interchange, is located in
the subdivision Pind Dadan Khan, Jhelum. It is also called the Mayo Salt Mine,
which is the world’s second-largest salt mine after the Sifto salt mine in
Canada. It is, generally, believed that it was discovered by the troops of
Alexander in 320 BC during his Indian Campaign, but the trading of salt was
started with Mughal Rule. Nearly three lac people visit the mine yearly. It is
one of the major tourist spots, which produces pink salt – famous in the whole
world. During a visit, tourists, using the services of Salt Mine Railways to
enjoy the beauty of mine. Surprisingly, interior has beautifully
designed spots, consisting of: pools of salty water, a bridge made up
of salt, a mosque built by using multi-colored bricks of salt, a replica of the
Great Wall of China, and other models too. Moreover, a small hospital is also
constructed inside the mine to cure people with respiratory diseases. This mine is
a real visiting place, especially for children.
Rohtas Fort
Rohtas Fort, an extraordinary architecture of the 16th century, built in 1543 by a Pushtun ruler Sher Shah Suri. It was built for military purposes to protect the Grand Trunk road from Mughals and their allies, and also to subdue the rebellious tribes of Potohar. The fort is, presently, in ruinous condition due to the neglect of the government of Pakistan. Furthermore, It has 12 gates and 68 bastion towers, covered by 4 kilometers long gigantic walls, which are 10 to 18 meters in height. As an Islamic ruler, a royal mosque has also been added to the fort – decorated with inscriptions of Muslim calligraphy. It is also a calm site to visit, where one can arrange lunch with family - recently constructed by local government for tourist whom are inspired by the history.
Ancient Temples of Tilla Jogian
Tilla Jogian, located on Potohar plateau, is almost 26 km west of the
main city of Jhelum. Historically, it was abandoned after 1947, as the
subcontinent divided into two independent countries. It is, an ancient site,
remained a holy place of Hindu Religion for 2000 years. It is a complex of
ancient temples and other monastic buildings, which were established in 1
century BC. Moreover, The weather is almost cool and calm, while the temples
are constructed in a green area full of olive and pine trees. Due to healthy
weather, the general area is heavily populated during the last decade.
Therefore, this place is highly recommended, if someone had already paid a visit
to Gurdwara Guru Nanak; it is believed that He was also associated with this
place.
Alexander’s Monument
In 326 BCE, Alexander the Great fought a battle
with King Porus of Pauravas on the banks of today’s River Jhelum in Battle of
the Hydaspes, defeating the Indian ruler annexing his empire. Alexander’s horse, Bucephalus, died during the Indian Campaign and He buried
his horse there – exact location not known – and founded a city Bucephala in
the name of his horse to commemorate the horse. The monument is, therefore,
blended with Greek architecture built by the Government of Pakistan and the
Embassy of Greece. Moreover, the nearest town is called Jallalpur Sharif in the
Pind Dadan Khan subdivision of Jhelum. This place could be visited, for
Alexander is a worrier known world wide.
Concluding
the interesting Jhelum’s story, this place is full of rich history, fascinating
heritage, and ancient structures. It is surprising to know that famous scholar,
Abu Rehan Al-Alberuni, has calculated the circumference of earth from a point
near Jhelum – later wrote a book about the region. But, ironically, we have
disdain our heritage, thanks to the government of Pakistan that approval has
been granted in 2021 to revive this place and open for visitors. Moreover,
nations succeeded when they learn from their history. These places should not
be taken for granted. Therefore, we must be injecting the traits of a responsible
citizen in our children for protecting the national heritage and to do wonders
for the state.
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