Adam's Peak (Sri Pada): The Overnight Pilgrimage Climb
Sri Pada, also called Adam’s Peak, is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites, holy to Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians alike. Pilgrims and travellers climb it overnight to stand at the summit for sunrise.
The climb
The main Nallathanniya (Hatton) route is a long stairway of several thousand steps, typically three to five hours up. Most people set off after midnight to reach the top before dawn.
The season
The pilgrimage season runs roughly December to May, when the path is lit and tea shops along the way are open. Outside season the climb is possible but unlit, colder and wetter.
Sunrise and the shadow
On a clear morning the summit gives a spectacular sunrise, and the mountain famously casts a perfect triangular shadow across the plains below.
Good to know
Dress in warm layers for the cold summit and pace yourself on the steep upper steps. Weekends and poya full-moon days are extremely busy.
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