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Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Sri Lanka lies Adam's Peak, a sacred mountain that attracts thousands of pilgrims and adventurers each year. This towering peak, also known as Sri Pada, is steeped in religious significance for Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians alike.
Climbing Adam's Peak is not just a physical challenge; it is a spiritual journey that offers breathtaking views and moments of reflection along the way. I only spent 10 days in Sri Lanka but climbing Adam’s Peak was definitely the highlight of my short trip! In this guide, I’ll answer all your questions to help plan your ascent of the most sacred mountain in Sri Lanka.
WHERE IS ADAM’S PEAK LOCATED?
Adam's Peak is located in the heart of Sri Lanka in the foothill town of Nallathanniya also called Dalhousie. It’s approximately 134 km from Colombo, 87 km from Kandy and 72 km from Nuwara Eliya.
HOW TO GET TO ADAM’S PEAK
The nearest town with a railway station is Hatton about 30 km from Nallathanniya/Dalhousie. Trains run from all the major cities but you might need to make a transfer along the way. Once in Hatton, buses leave every 1/2 hour to go to Nallathanniya/Dalhousie. Buses might run less frequently outside the high pilgrimage season (December to April). The bus fare is only 90 rupees (.40¢). The other options are to take a tuk-tuk or taxi from Hatton to Nallathanniya/Dalhousie but make sure to negotiate the price in advance.
Check all the train schedules and buy tickets directly on the Sri Lanka Railways official website.
WHERE TO STAY IN NALLATHANNIYA/DALHOUSIE (ADAM’S PEAK)?
Hotels and guesthouses are plentiful in Nallathanniya. I stayed at Punsisi Rest which I recommend. The rooms have a basic design but are clean and comfortable. Also, the guesthouse is only a few meters from the start of the climb to Adam’s Peak.
I only booked the room when I arrived in Nallathanniya but it would be wise to book accommodation in advance during peak season. Compare accommodation prices for Adam’s Peak on Booking.com.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLIMB ADAM’S PEAK?
Climbing Adam’s Peak is absolutely free unless you choose to join a tour. Having small change is a good idea in order to buy snacks, a hot tea or to go to the toilet along the climb.
WHY IS ADAM’S PEAK SACRED?
Adam’s Peak or Sri Prada in Sinhalese bears the meaning of “sacred footprint” said to be imprinted at the top of this massive rock formation. Different faiths have their own beliefs as to who the footprint belongs to. Buddhists believe it to be Buddha’s footprint. Hindus believe it to be Shiva’s footprint. Muslims and Christians believe it to be Adam’s footprint hence the name Adam’s Peak.
Please remember to be respectful when visiting Adam’s Peak.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO CLIMB ADAM’S PEAK?
Every year, thousands of Buddhist Sri Lankans take part in a sacred pilgrimage by climbing Adam's Peak. Since the rainy season is from August to November, the best time to climb Adam’s Peak is from December to April. Having said that, this is also the peak season for pilgrims so it gets very crowded especially on weekends and when there’s a full moon.
I climbed in November and there wasn’t a drop of rain. But, I did meet some travelers who couldn’t climb the day before due to heavy rains so I guess I got lucky!
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CLIMB ADAM’S PEAK?
It could take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours or more to climb Adam’s Peak depending on your fitness level, stamina and physical condition. Also, it gets very crowded during high pilgrimage season from December to April so this could add some significant time to your climb. Descending Adam’s Peak takes 2-3 hours.
It’s highly recommended to begin the climb in the middle of the night before the heat starts to rise. I woke up at 2:30 a.m. and started the climb at around 3 a.m. to make sure to catch the sunrise once I reached the top. Watching the sun rise amongst the clouds is a truly mesmerizing experience and shouldn’t be missed!
Also, it’s important to eat a balanced meal before starting the rigorous climb up to Adam’s Peak. Most accommodations will offer a meal even at such an ungodly hour. The restaurant at my guesthouse served a copious meal so I was ready to conquer Sri Prada!
WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR WHEN CLIMBING ADAM’S PEAK?
Don’t underestimate the cold while climbing Adam’s Peak! I suggest layering warm clothes to start the climb in the wee hours of the morning. You can always remove some layers if you get too hot but it’s better to wear more clothes than not enough. A lightweight hat is also a good idea.
Although the stairs are paved, closed shoes and socks are highly recommended. I would steer away from flip flops or anything with heels.
A head lamp or a flashlight is absolutely essential to guide you through the darkness when you start the climb. I read that candles are placed on the steps to light the way during the high pilgrimage season from December to May but I climbed Adam’s Peak in November so I was very grateful to have my head lamp.
HOW MANY STEPS TO REACH ADAM’S PEAK?
Adam’s Peak has an estimated 5500 steps to climb before reaching the top! The steps are wider at the beginning of the climb but get narrower and steeper the higher you go. You don’t need to be super fit to climb Adam’s Peak but it’s definitely a very, very strenuous climb. You’ve been warned!
At times, my heart was beating so fast I thought it would jump right out of my chest! Other times, I didn’t think my knees would be able to support me one more step. My legs were in pain and I was covered in sweat; I questioned several times if I would make it to the top. Fortunately, everyone is left to climb Adam’s Peak at their own pace so I rested whenever I wanted to.
ARE THERE REST AREAS WHEN CLIMBING ADAM’S PEAK?
A few tea houses selling hot and cold beverages, snacks and fruits are scattered along the climb. I’m guessing a lot more shops are open during peak season but I saw only a handful of shops when I climbed in November. Some shops might not be open very early in the morning or during low season so it’s best to bring lots of water and your own snacks.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE TOP OF ADAM’S PEAK
After almost 3 hours of blood, sweat and tears, I finally arrived at the summit of Adam's Peak. I had climbed nearly 5500 steps and was now at an altitude of 7359 feet. It was incredibly exhilarating!
Seeing the sunrise at such high altitude was amazing. After enduring the cold on the way up, I was relieved to finally bathe in the hot sun. The scenery left me speechless: different shades of orange and yellow slowly appeared through the billowy clouds. It was like the whole sky was performing a well-rehearsed choreography. I then realized I was actually above the clouds.
As I watched in awe, I noticed a shadow in the shape of a triangle. I found that to be very strange as there wasn’t anything triangular at the top of Adam’s Peak including the roof of the small temple. Some people say it’s simply the shadow of Adam's Peak but it seems highly unlikely. I don’t know what causes this phenomenon but make sure to have a look once you reach the top of Adam’s Peak!
Of course, the small temple which houses Buddha's footprint is located at the top of Adam’s Peak. Only Buddhists can enter the temple but visitors can have access to the exterior. Hats and shoes need to be removed but women don’t need to wear a headscarf.
After nearly 3 hours of simply admiring the incredible surroundings, it was time for the descent back to Dalhousie. By this time, it was broad daylight and I was able to see everything I missed in the darkness on the way up: tea plantations, monkeys with funky hair and several temples!
READ MORE ON SRI LANKA:
- The Prettiest Train Rides in Sri Lanka
- Exploring Anuradhapura: The Ancient Sacred City of Sri Lanka
- Climbing Pidurangala Rock in Sri Lanka
TRAVEL RESOURCES:
- Book flights to Sri Lanka via Skyscanner
- Compare hotel prices in Sri Lanka on Booking.com & Agoda
- Check hostel prices on HostelWorld
- Reserve train tickets on Sri Lanka Railways official site or 12GoAsia
- Stay connected using an Airalo E-sim for Sri Lanka
- Search for tours & excursions in Sri Lanka
- Shop for affordable travel insurance with SafetWing
- Save on conversion fees while traveling with Wise card
I’m the founder and creator of Life Untraveled. I quit my corporate job, sold everything I owned and have been traveling full-time since 2018. I hope to inspire you to travel differently on a budget.
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Subhadrika sen
Its always great to enjoy and explore these small places and their surroundings. They have a rustic feel to it which not many places have. Their untouched raw beauty is something that you would not find in towering sky rises and deep sea explorations. P.S that monkey had quite an expression though . 😛
Erika Bisbocci
I’m actually considering a trip to Sri Lanka later this year and will definitely consider Adam’s Peak since I’m an avid hiker. The 5000+ stairs certainly seem tiring, but well worthwhile with the incredible views from the top! Love the temples, waterfalls and wildlife on the way up!
Gokul
Wow….5200 steps was some climb but it was all worth it because there was a beautiful view waiting for you at the top.
Adrianna Vogel
That looks absolutely fantastic ! the photos! the view! amazing! Its like being at the top of the world! its definitely on my list now too !
Christine Krzyszton
Such a comprehensive guide to climbing Adam’s Peak. It appears to be a truly epic accomplishment to have made it to the top and one I may not have done 🙂 Thanks for the great read and the stunning photos. Can’t believe you captured the triangle.
Sandy & Vyjay
What a view! You look so cheerful even after climbing 5200 stairs. Amazing! Hats off to you