Adam’s Peak, also known as Sri Pada (meaning “sacred footprint”) and Samanala Kanda (“Butterfly Mountain”), is a prominent conical sacred mountain in Sri Lanka, located near the town of Ratnapura in the Sabaragamuwa Province.

It is one of the most famous landmarks in the country and a unique pilgrimage site, revered by multiple faiths for over a thousand years:

• Buddhists believe the footprint-shaped indentation in the rock near the summit is that of Lord Buddha.
• Hindus believe it is the footprint of Lord Shiva.
• Muslims and some Christians believe it is the place where Adam first set foot on Earth after being expelled from paradise, or that of St. Thomas the Apostle.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Height: The peak stands at 2,243 meters (7,359 feet).
• The Ascent: The climb is an arduous but rewarding trek, typically involving over 5,000 steps. It is a major pilgrimage, often undertaken at night to reach the summit by dawn.
• Sunrise View: A major highlight is witnessing the sunrise from the summit, which offers breathtaking panoramic views. A unique phenomenon is the perfectly triangular shadow the mountain casts on the clouds below, known as the “shadow of the Peak.”
• Pilgrimage Season: The main pilgrimage season runs from the full moon day of December (Duruthu Poya) to the full moon day of May (Vesak Poya). During this time, the route is well-lit and shops are open.
• Ratnapura Route: One of the main trails to the summit begins near Ratnapura, called the Palabaddala route. It is a longer and generally considered more challenging and scenic route compared to the more popular Hatton (Nallathanniya) route.
• Wildlife: The surrounding area is the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity and importance as a watershed for three major Sri Lankan rivers: the Kelani, Walawe, and Kalu Ganga. Ratnapura itself is famous as the “City of Gems.”