Adam’s Peak

Adam’s Peak or the Sripada “mountain of Sacred Footprint of Sri Lanka” is an ancient pilgrimage site. This conical mountain of 2,243 m high has a unique distinction of being sacred to the followers of four religions. It is highly revered by followers of four religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islamism.

Long before the development of these religions, however, this lush mountain was worshipped by the aboriginal inhabitants of Sri Lanka, the Veddas. They used to call it Samanala Kanda, Saman being one of the four guardian deities of the island.

Location:

Adam’s Peak Mountain is located in the southern area of the Central Highlands in the Ratnapura district of Sabaragauwa province. The surrounding region to this mountain is largely forested hills and distinctly visible because no mountain of comparable size is nearby. This lush forested area surrounded near the mountain is home to several wildlife species varying from elephants to leopards, and including many endemic species.

Myths Related to Adam’s Peak:

According to a legend, it is believed that Lord Buddha during his third visit to Sri Lanka placed his footprint on the summit of this sacred mountain. So, the name Sripada-the sacred footprint. Again the Muslim followers believe that the footprint is of Adam (hence the name Adam’s peak) whereas Christians and Hindus believe that the footprint is of St. Thomas, the disciple of Jesus, as he brought Christianity to the country and God Shiva respectively. For Hindus, the name of the mountain is Sivan Adi Padham, because it was the world-creative dance of the Lord Shiva that left the giant footprint (5 feet 7 inches by 2 feet 6 inches).

Pilgrimage Session to Adam’s Peak:

Today the pilgrimage season commences in December and continues until the beginning of the monsoon rains in April (from May to October the mountain is obscured by clouds). Pilgrims try to reach the peak before dawn, as the view of sunrise from the peak is spectacular. There are several approaches to reach the peak. The main ones being through the Hatton town and Ratnapura District.