Jhelum, Pakistan
Region: Punjab
Geographic Coordinates: 32.942500, 73.725600
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 40.0°C (50°F to 104°F)
Climate: Seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation occur in Jhelum, Pakistan.
Population: 190425
Language: Urdu
Jhelum is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan, Situated on the right bank of the Jhelum River. It is about 120 kilometers southeast of Islamabad and boasts a rich history and culture dating back to ancient times. One of its most notable landmarks is the Rohtas Fort, Built in the 16th century by Sher Shah Suri. This fortress covers over four acres and features walls up to 18 meters high, Designed to protect against invasions from Afghanistan and India. It remains one of Pakistan’s most important historical sites.
Another must-see attraction in Jhelum are the Tombs of Jalaluddin Surkh-Posh Bukhari and Asghar Ali Shah Bukhari, Considered sacred by many Muslims due to their connection with two prominent Sufi saints who lived during medieval times. For nature lovers, Jhelum has much to offer with Khewra Salt Mine located just outside the city. This popular tourist destination features underground tunnels that stretch for miles along with stunning rock formations carved out by centuries of mining activity.
Jhelum also has a thriving economy with industries including textiles manufacturing, Agriculture production (including rice), Steel mills etc., Making it an ideal hub for transportation activities due to its strategic location near Rawalpindi/Islamabad region. The locals are friendly & hospitable towards tourists & make them feel at home while visiting their beautiful city. The local cuisine includes traditional dishes like biryani, Kebabs, And tandoori chicken that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Overall, Jhelum offers something for everyone from its rich history & culture to stunning natural beauty & thriving economy.
Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient forts or enjoying local cuisine – this city has it all!
- Rohtas Fort
- Tilla Jogian
- Gurdwara Panja Sahib
- Jhelum River
- Church of Scotland Mission
- Hiran Minar
- Tilla Dhok Muhammad Shah
- Khewra Salt Mine
- Mangla Dam and Lake
- Agriculture
- Textile manufacturing
- Pharmaceuticals
- Construction materials production
- Small-scale cottage industries such as pottery and handicrafts
- Growing retail sector with supermarkets and shopping malls
- Educational institutions including schools and colleges that contribute to the local economy
- Alexander the Great crossed the Jhelum River in 326 BC during his conquest of South Asia.
- The Battle of Hydaspes, a decisive battle between Alexander and King Porus, took place on the banks of Jhelum River in 326 BC.
- Mahmud of Ghazni conquered Jhelum in 1005 AD and ruled it for several years.
- The Mughal Emperor Akbar established a fort near Jhelum in 1597 AD to protect his empire from Afghan invasions.
- Maharaja Ranjit Singh captured Jhelum in 1810 and made it a part of the Sikh Empire until British annexation.
- Sir James Broadwood Lyall served as Deputy Commissioner of Jhelum District from 1871 to 1878 and played an important role in its development.
- Allama Iqbal, one of Pakistan’s most renowned poets and philosophers, was born near Jhelum district in Sialkot (which is now part of Punjab province).
- During the partition of India in August 1947, many refugees fleeing violence crossed into Pakistan via Chak Amru railway station located within the city’s boundaries.
- The Mangla Dam project was constructed on river Jehlum between Mirpur and Dina cities during early sixties to generate electricity for country’s needs.
- A violent clash occurred between Muslims and Sikhs at Chakwal (a town located near Jehlum) on February-February-1921 which resulted into deaths on both sides.
- Rohtas Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 16th century and was constructed by the Mughal emperor Sher Shah Suri.
- Jhelum River runs through the city and is a popular destination for picnics and boating.
- The Sher Shah Suri Mosque is another historical landmark built by the Mughal emperor Sher Shah Suri.
- Tilla Jogian, a mountain peak with a monastery on top, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
- Khewra Salt Mine, located an hour’s drive from Jhelum, is one of the largest salt mines globally and provides tours for visitors to explore its wonders.
- The Pakistan Army Museum showcases Pakistan’s military history through its exhibits featuring weapons, uniforms, and other artifacts.
- Hiran Minar is a monument built in Sheikhupura district near Lahore in the 17th century by Emperor Jahangir to honor his beloved pet deer named Mansraj.
- Chakwal District Cultural Complex features exhibitions on local art, crafts as well as music and dance performances showcasing Pakistani culture at its finest.
- Pind Dadan Khan Hot Springs are natural hot springs located an hour’s drive from Jhelum renowned for their healing properties for various ailments.
- Mangla Dam & Lake is one of Pakistan’s most massive dams situated at Mangla town near Mirpur Azad Kashmir which boasts stunning lake views surrounded by scenic hills making it an ideal spot for tourists looking to relax amidst nature.
- Jhelum Cricket Club: Established in 1910, this cricket club has produced several renowned cricketers, including Abdul Hafeez Kardar, who captained Pakistan’s cricket team during its early days.
- Jhelum Football Club: Formed in 1953, this football club has won numerous local tournaments and has produced many talented footballers who have played for national-level teams.
- Jhelum Gymkhana Club: This club provides its members with various sports facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools, and a golf course.
- Jhelum Wrestling Association: Wrestling is a popular sport in Jhelum, and this association organizes regular tournaments to promote it as a traditional sport.
- Jhelum Hockey Club: Hockey is another popular sport in Pakistan where many talented players from Jhelum have represented the country at international events.
In summary, sports play an essential role in promoting physical fitness and healthy competition among people living not only within Jhelum but also across Pakistan as a whole.
- Basant Festival is a popular springtime celebration in Jhelum that involves kite flying and feasting.
- The Urs of Pir Shah Jewna is an annual religious festival held in Jhelum to honor the Sufi saint Pir Shah Jewna.
- Chakwal Mela, a cultural event held every year in nearby Chakwal district, features traditional music, dance performances, and handicrafts.
- Independence Day Celebrations on August 14th are marked by parades, flag hoisting ceremonies, and fireworks displays in Jhelum.
- Eid ul-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are important Islamic festivals celebrated with prayer services at local mosques followed by feasts with family members and friends.
- Shab-e-Barat is a night of forgiveness observed by Muslims on the 15th day of Sha’ban month according to the Islamic calendar.
- The National Horse & Cattle Show Lahore (Jhelum Division) is a grand event showcasing Pakistani livestock breeds along with horse racing competitions held annually near Lahore that attracts people from all over Pakistan including residents of Jhelum Division who actively participate in it too.
- Chapli Kabab: A spicy meat patty made with minced beef or mutton, onions, tomatoes, and spices.
- Nihari: A slow-cooked meat stew made with beef or mutton and a variety of spices.
- Biryani: A rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables and flavored with aromatic spices.
- Kheer: A sweet rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and cardamom.
- Dera Restaurant: Famous for its traditional Pakistani dishes like biryani, karahi chicken, and kebabs.
- Al-Madina Restaurant: Known for its delicious nihari and other Pakistani dishes.
- Tandoori Hut Restaurant: Offers a variety of tandoori dishes like tandoori chicken tikka and naan bread baked in a clay oven.
- Royal Garden Restaurant & BBQ: Specializes in barbeque dishes like seekh kebab and grilled fish served with naan bread or rice pilaf.
- Cafe De Laila: Offers a range of Pakistani snacks like samosas, pakoras (fritters), chaat (spicy snack), as well as burgers and sandwiches.
- Mehfil restaurant: Famous for its traditional food including biryani, karahi, grill items etc.
- Shahi Bagh Park: This is a popular public park located in the heart of Jhelum city. It has beautiful gardens, fountains, and walking tracks for visitors.
- TDCP Jhelum River View Resort: This resort is situated on the bank of the river Jhelum and offers various recreational activities like boating, fishing, and camping.
- Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park: This park is located near Railway Station Road and has a playground for children, jogging tracks for fitness enthusiasts, and picnic spots for families.
- PAF Base Nur Khan Golf Course: This golf course is located on GT Road near Jhelum city and offers an excellent opportunity to play golf amidst lush green surroundings.
- Jehlum River Bridge: The Jehlum River Bridge connects two districts of Punjab province – Jhelum and Gujrat – over the river Jehlum. It’s a scenic spot that offers breathtaking views of the river from both sides of the bridge.
- Sohawa Wildlife Park: Sohawa Wildlife Park is situated at a distance of 25 km from Jhelum city towards Islamabad on GT Road. Visitors can see various wild animals like lions, tigers, deer etc., here along with enjoying picnics in its natural surroundings.
- Kala Gujran Lake: Kala Gujran Lake is situated 10 km away from Jhelum city towards Rawalpindi/Islamabad side on GT Road which serves as an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts or those who want to enjoy boating or just relax by its serene waterside environment.
