Indian Man Travels 8,650 km on Foot to Makkah for Hajj

A 29-year-old man from Kerala, India Shihab Chottur began a remarkable journey in 2022, traversing 8,650 kilometers to Makkah in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj in 2023. 

The journey took Chottur a total of 382 days, which began on Jun. 2, 2022, and ended in June 2023.

The trek took the young man through the countries of Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and Kuwait before he finally reached Makkah in Saudi Arabia. 

During his interview with the Saudi TV channel Al Ekbariya, Chottur shared the various hardships he faced during his journey. 

Chottur was delayed in Pakistan for four months to obtain a transit visa. He also faced the threat of predatory animals and the intense cold weather in Iran. 

The Keralite explained how he trekked 15 kilometers during cold days and 50 kilometers during better weather.

When Chottur first arrived in Saudi Arabia, he travelled to Madina to visit the grave of the Prophet Muhammad after which he journeyed to Makkah. 

In Saudi Arabia, Chottur walked 25-60 kilometers per day, therefore he took nine days to cover the 440 kilometer-distance from Madina to Makkah.

After reaching Makkah, the young man is awaiting his mother's arrival in the holy city, where they will both perform Hajj together.

Image source: @shihabchottur_official Instagram page