Summit Elevation
2,243 metres (7,359 ft)
Total Steps
Approx 5,500 stone steps each way
Trek Duration
3.5 to 5 hours ascent (starts 1:30 AM)
Pilgrimage Season
Unduvap Poya (Dec) to Vesak Poya (May)
A Multi-Faith Sacred Mountain
Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) is a solitary conical mountain rising steeply from the southwestern edge of the central highlands. At its apex sits a sacred boulder with an indentation revered across multiple world religions: Buddhists venerate it as the footprint of Gautama Buddha (Sri Pada); Hindus worship it as the footprint of Lord Shiva (Shiva Padam); and Christians and Muslims associate it with the first steps of Adam after his expulsion from Eden.
The Midnight Climb & The Shadow Phenomenon
Pilgrims typically begin the climb from the village of Nallathanniya around 1:30 AM to 2:00 AM. The pathway is illuminated by continuous strings of electric lights and lined with tea shacks serving warm ginger tea. Reaching the summit before 5:45 AM rewards trekkers with two unforgettable spectacles: a brilliant tropical sunrise over the sea of clouds, followed immediately by the mystical triangular shadow cast by the peak onto the misty lowlands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How physically demanding is the Adam's Peak trek?
The climb involves roughly 5,500 continuous stone steps and tests knee and calf endurance. A moderate level of cardiovascular fitness is recommended.