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Delhi University student completes non-stop round-trip swim across Palk Strait, setting a new record
Kamya Bhardwaj, a 19-year-old Delhi University student, completed a 54 km non-stop round-trip swim across the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka in 18 hours 15 minutes, setting a new record. The swim began on April 12 and finished on April 13, facing high tides, strong currents, and a night-time jellyfish-like sting.
Why It Matters
The achievement sets a new endurance record for the Palk Strait crossing and demonstrates perseverance in extreme open-water swimming.
Timeline
4 Events
Publication date of report
April 20, 2026
The reporting article about the feat was published, detailing Bhardwaj’s journey and the challenges faced during the swim.
Return completed; new record set
April 13, 2026
Kamya Bhardwaj returned to the shores of Arichalmunai at 7:45 AM, concluding the 54 km non-stop round-trip and setting a new distance record.
Outward leg completed; return journey begins
April 12, 2026
She reached Oormala in Talaimannar at 10:35 PM and immediately began the return journey, pushing through the night despite high tides and strong currents.
Expedition begins: 54 km Palk Strait round-trip starts
April 12, 2026
Kamya Bhardwaj started the 54 km journey from Arichalmunai, India, at 1:30 PM local time, aiming to swim to Talaimannar, Sri Lanka, and back.