Adams Peak is a rock formation near the summit, which in Buddhist tradition is held to be the footprint of the Buddha, in Hindu tradition that of Shiva and in Islamic and Christian tradition that of Adam, or that of St. Thomas. In Islamic tradition it is the site where Adam fell to earth and where his footprint can be found. At the top of Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, there is a sacred footprint in which the island’s main faiths – Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims – each believe it is the footprint of Buddha, Shiva, and Adam, respectively. It is most atmospheric to hike Adam’s Peak during the pilgrimage season (December to May) as the main path is illuminated and teashops stay open throughout the night. Sri Lanka Holiday Travel is a very efficient and effective tour company that arranges many tours for those planning Sri Lanka holidays, especially to destinations such as Adams Peak. They have many years of professional experience in organizing tours, and has a great amount expertise.
The pilgrimage season runs from Unduwap poya (December) to Wesak poya Festival (May), reaching its peak mid-season at Medin poya. At this time, there is a constant stream of pilgrims & the top can get very crowded. The busiest period is during January to February. The road to Adam’s peak takes you past some spectacular waterfalls & winds through the heart of some of the finest tea-growing country in the world. Most people do the walk by moonlight, setting off from Dalhousie around 0300, & arriving in time to see the dawn when the “Shadow of the peak” takes place. Alternatively, you could climb up the previous evening & sleep on top of the mountain, though it is very cold up here until well after sunrise so it is essential to take warm clothing & sleeping bags. Either way, it is worth ordering breakfast in advance at the Green House or Yellow House.
Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.