Adam's Peak (Sri Pada)

In the south of the Hill Country lies one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive landmarks, Sri Pada, or Adam’s Peak. At over 2,000 metres high, the mountain has been a focus for pilgrimage for over 1,000 years.

Although the peak is only Sri Lanka’s fifth tallest mountain, it is well known for the Sri Pada footprint, a 1.8 metre-long rock formation placed near the summit. The footprint formation has sparked many legends revolving around how and why it was created; different religions hold their own sources and beliefs.   

In the Buddhist tradition, the footprint is thought to be that of the Buddha, in Hindu tradition, it is that of Shiva, and in Muslim and Christian traditions it is thought to be the footprint of Adam (hence the name Adam’s Peak). However, today visitors flock to the summit to watch the sunrise over the incredible landscape and ring the bell to celebrate their pilgrimage.

When to go to Adam’s Peak?

The ‘pilgrimage season' is generally between December and May, when the weather in Sri Lanka is most favourable and the path is lit. During the peak season, there are rest stops and tea shops along the route giving climbers a chance to stop and enjoy the journey.

The more adventurous could climb Adam’s Peak year-round. During the low season, facilities are limited and the route may not be lit. However, travellers enjoy a quieter climb and ascending at their own pace.

The climb is best done starting soon after midnight, with the aim of being on the summit for sunrise. It can be tiring for even the fittest travellers but is well worth it for the magical experience you have at the summit. A fortunate few will see the fabled 'hologram' - the effect of the mountain's shadow casting the shape of an equilateral triangle on the morning clouds.

Routes to Adam's Peak

Visiting Adam’s Peak is especially easy from the area around Hattone, however, it is accessible from much of the hill country making it a perfect adventure if you are exploring this area. The summit can be accessed by six trails passing through the forests which cloak the mountainside, all with varying degrees of difficulty. The quickest route from Dalhousie is well signposted and can take 3/4 hours to ascend to the top, although at peak times this can take longer. The ascent can be challenging with a climb of around 5500 steps, which is worth it once you get to the top and see the magic of the sun rising above the clouds

What is found at Adams Peak Sri Lanka?

The mountain itself is also a wildlife reserve and a part of Horton Plains National Park, leaving visitors who climb with the opportunity to see local wildlife. The reserve houses many animals from elephants to leopards as well as many endemic species. It may be worth taking a quieter route to increase the chances of spotting wildlife during your climb to Adam's Peak. 

Once you arrive at the peak,  visitors can see a 360-degree  view of the surrounding hills. Often clouds are seen between peaks which makes every trip to Adam’s Peak unique and a truly memorable sight. The summit has a collection of small buildings as well as two bells which pilgrims ring to celebrate every successful climb on Sri Pada. Under a pavilion, visitors can also see Adam’s Peak footprint.

The descent from Sri Pada is faster and offers visitors jungle views that are dark on their way up. On the way down, people share pictures and try to spot the waterfall. 

If you are joining our tour, we book a stay at a guest house in Dalhousie, the town at the foot of the mountain so that you can shower and relax upon your return.