Adam's Peak (Sri Pada)
Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) - a sacred summit with a revered "footprint", climbed overnight for a sunrise and the peak’s shadow
The route
The line through Central Highlands, Sri Lanka - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Dec-May (pilgrimage season)
Cool/cold at the summit; slippery when wet
Pilgrimage season Dec-May (huge Poya crowds); off-season it is wet and the steps unlit. Confirm.
On the trail
Roughly 5,500 pilgrim steps climbed by lamplight for a dawn summit
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Night climb for sunrise; the quieter Ratnapura route
Getting there & staying
Dalhousie (Nallathanniya), from Hatton
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Day route - none needed
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Hatton / Dalhousie; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; a sacred pilgrimage site (be respectful); tea stalls line the route
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
The endless steps, cold at the summit, crowds on Poya days
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.