Shahmee Saheedh – The First Sri Lankan to Walk the Entire Coastal Route of the Country

SHAHMEE SAHEEDH – THE FIRST SRI LANKAN TO WALK THE ENTIRE COASTAL ROUTE OF THE COUNTRY

Shahmee Saheedh with President Ranil Wikramasingha, getting his award

1500 km walked in 45 days (walk around Sri Lanka's Coastal area)

Congratulations for the remarkable achievement!

Walking Route

Day 1 - Beruwala to Ambalangoda 31 km

Day 2 - Ambalangoda to Dhewata, Galle 35 km

Day 3 - Dhewata, Galle to Mirissa 32 km

Day 4 - Mirissa to Hiriketiya, Dickwella 34 km

Day 5 - Hiriketiya, Dickwella to Ranna 31 km

Day 6 - Ranna to Hambantota 34 km

Day 7 - Hambantota to Lunugamvehera 33 km

Day 8 - Lunugamvehera to Kuda Oya 33 km

Day 9 - Kuda Oya to Wellawaya 31 km

Day 10 - Wellawaya to Monaragala 38 km

Day 11 - Monaragala to Siyambalanduwa 33 km

Day 12 - Siyambalanduwa to Pottuvil 34 km

Day 13 - Pottuvil to Thirukkovil 33 km

Day 14 - Thirukkovil to Ninthavur 31 km

Day 15 - Ninthavur to Kirankulam 36 km

Day 16 - Kirankulam to Chenkalady 31 km

Day 17 - Chenkalady to Oddamavady 22 km

Day 18 - Oddamavady to Vakarai 32 km

Day 19 - Vakarai to Thoppur 41 km

Day 20 - Thoppur to Kinniya 25 km

Day 21 - Kinniya to Nilaveli 32 km

Day 22 - Nilaveli to Pudavaikkattu 32 km

Day 23 - Pudavaikkattu to Kokkilai 33 km

Day 24 - Kokkilai to Mullaitivu 35 km

Day 25 - Mullaitivu to Moongilaru 33 km

Day 26 - Moongilaru to Paranthan 30 km

Day 27 - Paranthan to Maruthankerny 31 km

Day 28 - Maruthankerny to Pedro Point 33 km

Day 29 - Pedro Point to Chunnakam 31 km

Day 30 - Chunnakam to Neithalkulam 25 km

Day 31 - Neithalkulam to Naachikuda 60 km

Day 32 - Naachikuda to Iluppaikadavai 27 km

Day 33 - Iluppaikadavai to Mannar 35 km

Day 34 - Mannar to Chilavathurai 32 km

Day 35 - Chilavathurai to Aandiyapuliyankulam 45 km

Day 36 - Aandiyapuliyankulam to Madawachiya 38 km

Day 37 - Madawachiya to Anuradhapura 33 km

Day 38 - Anuradhapura to Kalaoya 38 km

Day 39 - Kalaoya to Puttalam 39 km

Day 40 - Puttalam to Battulu Oya 37 km

Day 41 - Battulu Oya to Marawila 39 km

Day 42 - Marawila to Negombo 30 km

Day 43 - Negombo to Colombo 47 km

Day 44 - Colombo to Wadduwa 45 km

Day 45 - Wadduwa to Beruwala 30 km

Sri Lanka,

A tropical paradise renowned for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, witnessed a historic achievement in 2024. Shahmee Saheedh, an adventurous and determined individual, became the first Sri Lankan to walk around the entire coastal route of the island, covering an impressive 1500 kilometers in just 45 days. This extraordinary feat not only highlights his physical endurance but also symbolizes the spirit of exploration and the will to push beyond limits. In this article, we delve into Shahmee's journey, the challenges he faced, the milestones he achieved, and the broader impact of this accomplishment.

Shahmee’s journey began with a strong motivation to explore the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka's coastline on foot. Driven by a deep connection to his homeland and a desire to inspire others, he meticulously planned every detail of his expedition. This preparation involved intense physical training, route mapping, and logistical coordination to ensure a safe and successful journey. Shahmee also aimed to showcase the hidden gems of Sri Lanka’s coastal regions, promoting local tourism and encouraging people to embrace outdoor adventures.

The Walking Route and Key Milestones

Shahmee's expedition kicked off from Beruwala, a coastal town known for its golden beaches and rich history. Each day of his journey was a new chapter, filled with unique experiences and challenges. The journey covered 45 stages, each averaging about 33 kilometers per day. Here are some highlights:

Day 1-10: Southern Coastal Route

- Beruwala to Galle (Day 1-2): Shahmee walked through the picturesque southern coast, passing Ambalangoda and arriving in Galle, a city renowned for its colonial architecture and UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle Fort.

- Mirissa to Hambantota (Day 3-6): This segment showcased the pristine beaches of Mirissa and the bustling fishing ports of Hambantota, offering Shahmee a glimpse into the vibrant coastal life.

Day 11-20: Eastern Coastal Route

- Monaragala to Pottuvil (Day 10-12): The journey transitioned from the southern to the eastern coast, with Shahmee trekking through Monaragala and Pottuvil, areas known for their rugged beauty and surfing spots.

- Trincomalee to Nilaveli (Day 19-21): In the northern part of the eastern coast, Shahmee explored the historical port city of Trincomalee and the tranquil beaches of Nilaveli, both rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Day 21-30: Northern Coastal Route

- Mullaitivu to Jaffna (Day 24-29): As Shahmee moved further north, he encountered the remnants of Sri Lanka’s civil war in Mullaitivu and the vibrant Tamil culture in Jaffna. The journey through this region was both emotionally and physically challenging, as he navigated through areas with deep historical significance.

- Pedro Point to Chunnakam (Day 28-29): This stretch brought Shahmee to the northernmost point of Sri Lanka, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean and a sense of accomplishment as he neared the completion of his journey.

Day 31-45: Western Coastal Route

- Mannar to Negombo (Day 32-42): The western coast provided a contrasting landscape with its vast lagoons, salt pans, and bustling fishing communities. The journey from Mannar to Negombo was marked by long stretches of uninhabited coastline, testing Shahmee’s endurance and determination.

- Colombo to Beruwala (Day 43-45): The final leg of the journey brought Shahmee back to his starting point in Beruwala, completing the full circle around Sri Lanka’s coastline.

Challenges and Triumphs

Shahmee’s journey was not without its challenges. The diverse terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and physical strain tested his resilience daily. From scorching heat to torrential rains, he faced it all with unwavering determination. Additionally, the logistical aspects of such a journey, including securing food, water, and shelter, were significant hurdles. However, Shahmee’s positive mindset and support from local communities along the way fueled his drive to succeed.

Shahmee’s achievement has left a lasting impact on Sri Lanka and beyond. His journey has inspired many to pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem. By walking the entire coastal route, Shahmee not only set a new record but also highlighted the importance of perseverance, planning, and passion. His story is a testament to the idea that with determination, anything is possible.

Moreover, this achievement has put a spotlight on Sri Lanka’s coastal regions, promoting local tourism and encouraging both locals and tourists to explore the island's natural beauty. Shahmee’s walk serves as a reminder of the richness of Sri Lanka’s heritage, the warmth of its people, and the endless opportunities for adventure that the island offers.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Shahmee Saheedh's journey around Sri Lanka's coastal line wasn't just a physical challenge; it was a test of mental endurance, resilience, and adaptability. Walking 1,500 kilometers in 45 days meant facing diverse terrains, from sandy beaches to rocky coastal paths, and navigating through various weather conditions, from scorching sun to heavy rains. Every step brought new challenges, but also invaluable lessons.

Physical and Mental Endurance

Walking long distances daily required tremendous physical stamina. Shahmee had to ensure he maintained his energy levels, which involved strict dietary planning and hydration. More than the physical strain, the mental challenge of maintaining focus and motivation throughout the journey was significant. Each day brought its own set of obstacles, whether it was muscle fatigue, blisters, or simply the monotony of walking for hours on end. However, Shahmee’s unwavering determination and his vision of completing this historic walk kept him moving forward.

Navigating Unfamiliar Territories

Walking along the coastal route of Sri Lanka meant passing through unfamiliar territories, including remote villages and towns. Navigating these areas required careful planning, sometimes relying on local knowledge to find the best paths or to avoid potential dangers. Shahmee's ability to connect with locals and learn from them played a crucial role in ensuring his safety and the success of his journey.

Weather and Environmental Challenges

The unpredictable Sri Lankan weather posed significant challenges during the walk. Shahmee encountered everything from the intense heat of the midday sun to unexpected downpours that made paths slippery and treacherous. There were also environmental challenges such as crossing rivers, avoiding high tides, and dealing with the natural obstacles found along coastal areas. These experiences underscored the importance of preparedness and flexibility in tackling unforeseen challenges.

Cultural and Social Encounters

One of the highlights of Shahmee’s journey was the cultural and social encounters he experienced along the way. As he passed through different regions of Sri Lanka, Shahmee interacted with people from various cultural backgrounds, each with their own unique traditions and stories. These interactions enriched his journey, offering him insights into the diverse cultures and communities that make up the fabric of Sri Lankan society. These encounters also provided moments of rest and rejuvenation, as local communities often welcomed him with warmth and hospitality.

Impact on Local Communities

Shahmee’s walk didn’t just impact him; it left a lasting impression on the local communities he passed through. His journey became a symbol of inspiration, showing people that determination and perseverance can help overcome even the toughest challenges. In many areas, local residents joined him for parts of his walk, and his journey sparked conversations about physical fitness, mental health, and the importance of setting and achieving goals.

Health and Well-being

Maintaining health and well-being was crucial for Shahmee's success. He followed a strict regimen to ensure his body could withstand the demands of walking 30 to 40 kilometers a day. His diet was carefully planned to provide the necessary nutrients, and he paid close attention to his hydration levels, especially in the hot and humid climate of Sri Lanka. Regular stretches and rest were essential to prevent injuries, and Shahmee had to be vigilant about signs of fatigue and strain to avoid long-term damage.

This journey was not just about the physical challenge; it was a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of connection. Shahmee’s walk around Sri Lanka was a reminder that no matter how far we travel, the most important journey is the one we take within ourselves.

As Shahmee bid farewell to the people he met along the way, he knew that this journey had changed him forever. The memories, the lessons, and the connections would stay with him long after he returned home, inspiring him to continue exploring the world and pushing beyond his limits.

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