Climb through misty trails, sacred legends, and breathtaking sunrises to discover Sri Pada, where faith, history, and nature meet atop Sri Lanka’s most revered peak.
Introduction
Sri Pada, also known as Adam’s Peak, is a 2,243 m (7,359 ft) conical sacred mountain located in central Sri Lanka. This iconic peak holds immense religious significance, drawing pilgrims and travelers worldwide. At its summit lies a sacred footprint embedded in rock, revered by followers of different faiths:
- Buddhists believe it to be the footprint of the Buddha.
- Hindus associate it with Lord Shiva or Hanuman.
- Muslims consider it to be Adam’s footprint.
- Christians sometimes associate it with St. Thomas.
Historical and Religious Significance
Sri Pada’s sacred legacy dates back centuries and has been celebrated in texts, folklore, and historical records:
- Buddhist Tradition: The Mahawamsa chronicles state that the Buddha visited Sri Lanka and left his footprint at Sri Pada at the invitation of deity Sumana Saman, the mountain’s guardian.
- Historical Mentions:
- Chinese traveler Fa Hien (411 CE) documented its significance during his visit to Sri Lanka.
- Marco Polo (1298 CE) recognized the mountain as a key pilgrimage site.
- Explorer Ibn Battuta (1344 CE) described the stairways and iron chains aiding pilgrims in their ascent.
- Royal Pilgrimages: Kings such as Vijayabahu I (1058–1114) and Nissanka Malla (1187–1196) ascended the peak to worship at the summit and promoted pilgrimages.
The Pilgrimage
The pilgrimage to Sri Pada is an ancient tradition that continues to this day. The season begins on the full moon of December and ends in April, with thousands making the climb to witness the Ira Sevaya (sunrise shadow phenomenon). Pilgrims often aim to reach the summit before dawn to experience this breathtaking spectacle.
Trails Leading to Sri Pada
There are six main trails to the summit, each offering unique challenges and beauty:
- Hatton-Nallathanni Trail (Raja Mawatha)
- The most popular and easiest route.
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 m
- Distance: 5 km | Time: 5–7 hours
- Ratnapura-Palabaddala Trail
- The oldest and most challenging route, known for landmarks like Seetha Gangula (icy river).
- Elevation Gain: 2,000 m
- Distance: 8.5 km | Time: 8–12 hours
- Kuruwita-Erathna Trail
- A scenic but difficult route passing Warnagala Rock and waterfalls.
- Elevation Gain: 1,850 m
- Distance: 12 km | Time: 8–12 hours
- Deraniyagala-Udamaliboda Trail
- A remote and forested trail requiring trekkers to cross streams and rivers.
- Elevation Gain: 1,700 m
- Distance: 12 km | Time: 8–12 hours
- Rajamale-Murraywatta Trail
- The shortest and least strenuous route, starting from the Murray Estate.
- Elevation Gain: 640 m
- Distance: 5 km | Time: 2 hours
- Dehenakanda-Mukkuwaththa Trail
- A lesser-known trail established in 1933.
Key Attractions at Sri Pada
- The Sacred Footprint: The revered footprint is a 5 ft 3 in hollow believed to be adorned with gems and brass.
- Peace Pagoda: Built in 1978 by Nipponzan Myohoji halfway up the Hatton trail, it symbolizes peace and unity.
- Ira Sevaya: Witness the magical sunrise where the mountain’s shadow forms a perfect triangle.
The Sacred Tradition of Sri Pada Pilgrimage (with KODU Rithuals) 🙏
The Sri Pada pilgrimage is a unique and profound experience. For Buddhists, it is the veneration of the sacred left footprint of Lord Buddha, also known as the Paribhogika Dhaatu, by ascending Samanala Kanda (Adam’s Peak).
This journey has its own fascinating cultural traditions, which are unique to the Sri Pada pilgrimage. What makes it even more special is that there is no religious or ethnic barrier—people of all faiths and backgrounds can partake in this pilgrimage. Even for those from different religions, engaging in the rituals associated with Sri Pada becomes a beautiful and unforgettable experience, offering something unparalleled anywhere else in the world.
Interestingly, many foreign visitors who come for the Sri Pada pilgrimage knowingly or unknowingly follow these cultural traditions, enjoying this sacred experience. Therefore, it’s important for us to observe these rituals consciously and understand their significance.
The Start of the Pilgrimage
The pilgrimage, or Sri Pada Karunawa, begins under the guidance of a Nade Guru (group leader). The selection of the Nade Guru depends on a few factors: they are often the eldest person in the group or someone who has undertaken the pilgrimage many times. An elder carries wisdom, responsibility, and experience in managing the group, ands also with multiple pilgrimages under their belt he should knows the journey intimately and can guide the group efficiently.
Before setting off, there’s a traditional practice of abstaining from meat (Nirmaansha) and spiritually preparing for the pilgrimage—a tradition that continues even today. At the start of the journey, the Nade Guru leads the group in taking the Five Precepts (Pansil), which are a foundation for the pilgrimage. For those of other religions, it is perfectly acceptable to pray and reflect on their own faith for blessings and inner strength, as it enhances their belief and determination for the challenging journey.
Rituals Begin at Seetha Gangula
The first significant point encountered on the Sri Pada trail is Seetha Gangula (the cool river). Here, the KODU pilgrims (anyone who wish to see the Sri Pada at their firstime) engage in their first ritual. KODU pilgrims should bathes in the icy water with lemon, cleansing themselves physically and spiritually, symbolizing the sacred nature of the pilgrimage. After bathing, pilgrims wear white clothing or at least a white shawl, representing purity. At this stage, the Nade Guru ties a small bundle of white cloth (Padura) to the pilgrims’ hands, symbolizing a sacred vow they must uphold throughout the journey.
The Importance of Moving Forward
From this point onwards, KODU pilgrims are reminded not to turn back. If tired, one may stop and rest, but never turn around. This reflects the belief in unwavering perseverance and the importance of progress during the pilgrimage. Traditionally, elders would remind KODU pilgrims sternly of this, ensuring they adhere to the sacred place. Everyone shouldn’t turn back and, guard their speech and maintain a mindful, respectful silence.
Indikatu Pana / Geththam Pana (Needle Point)
The next ritual occurs at Indikatu Pana (Needle Point), where it is believed that the Buddha tore his robe here when he was going to establish the Siripa sign. Then lord Buddha stopped to sewed his robe. Legends say that Maraya, the demon, tried to disrupt the process by causing a downpour of rain. Therefore, to symbolize that, people who worship Kodu for the first time attach the thread to the needle and knit at there to commitmore of that.
This tradition is performed at several points along the trails, such as Ratnapura and Hatton routes. On the Hatton route, pilgrims extend the thread upward until it runs out, symbolizing continuous effort and progress.
The Haramitipana Ritual
At Haramitipana, pilgrims offer a small branch (called Haramitiya) as a symbol of prayer, wishing for an easy and safe journey and It also includes a wishing that he could see Siripa every season until he needs Haramittiya to walk. It is customary to make a vow here, promising to avoid wrongdoing and asking for divine blessings for the challenges ahead.
Arriving at the Summit (Uda Maluwa)
Upon reaching the sacred summit, the Nade Guru organizes the KODU pilgrims in a row and places a white cloth (jatawa) over their heads. Pilgrims then circle the sacred footprint three times in reverence before bowing down with great devotion. At this point, the Nade Guru leads each pilgrim to touch their heads to the sacred footprint, guiding them in prayerful worship.
Key Reminders at the Sacred Summit
It is essential to remember that the Sri Pada Footprint is a sacred relic (Paribhogika Dhaatu). Therefore, pilgrims should never place money or coins directly on the footprint. Instead, donations should be made in the designated offering box nearby.
Pilgrims recite the Sri Pada Vandana Gatha at this time, which carries deep meaning:
“Kalyanito gaganato muniyattha gantva
Dasseyi cakkavala-lakkhana padalancham,
Lanka-mahivara-vadhu makutopamanan
Vandamaham Sumana-kuta siluccayantam.”
(Translation: If there is any footprint of the wise lord buddha located in the sand belt of the Narmada river, Sachchabaddha rock, Sumana Koota, or Yonaka Pura, I worship it with my heart.)
Environmental Responsibility
A critical reminder to all pilgrims is the importance of environmental preservation. Particularly at Indikatu Pana, excessive threads, plastic, and other waste have polluted the area. Pilgrims are urged to use biodegradable materials when performing rituals and refrain from leaving harmful items behind. The beauty and sanctity of Sri Pada must be protected for generations to come.
How to Get to Sri Pada
NOTE: These details last update on 17.12.2024
🚆 Train and Bus Details for Hatton & Nallathanniya Travelers
Colombo to Hatton (Train Time Table)
| Train | Departure (Colombo) | Arrival (Hatton) |
|---|---|---|
| Podi Menike | 5:55 AM | 11:14 AM |
| Udarata Menike | 8:30 AM | 1:19 PM |
| Tikiri Menike | 12:40 PM | 8:03 PM |
| Night Mail | 8:30 PM | 2:20 AM |
Hatton to Colombo (Train Time Table)
| Train | Departure (Hatton) | Arrival (Colombo) |
|---|---|---|
| Tikiri Menike | 7:25 AM | 1:47 PM |
| Udarata Menike | 10:28 AM | 3:32 PM |
| Podi Menike | 1:29 PM | 6:44 PM |
| Rajadhani Express | 3:31 PM | 8:06 PM |
| Night Mail | 12:35 AM | 5:24 AM |
🎟️ Train Ticket Prices (Colombo to Hatton):
- 2nd Class: Rs. 650
- 3rd Class: Rs. 320
🚌 Transport to Nallathanniya:
- Hatton Railway Station has direct buses to Nallathanniya.
- Alternatively, take a bus from Hatton Bus Stand or Maskeliya to Nallathanniya.
🏠 Accommodation Options:
Plenty of budget-friendly lodges and rest stops are available in Nallathanniya.
🛤️ From Ratnapura – Sri Palabaddala Route
This scenic and historical route takes you through beautiful locations like Lihinihela, Dharmarajagala, and Makara Thorana.
Bus Time Table (Route 477: Ratnapura – Sri Palabaddala):
| Ratnapura to Palabaddala | Palabaddala to Ratnapura |
|---|---|
| 5:30 AM | 5:00 AM |
| 6:30 AM | 5:30 AM |
| 7:00 AM | 6:00 AM |
| 7:30 AM | 6:30 AM |
| 8:00 AM | 7:00 AM |
| 8:40 AM | 8:00 AM |
| 9:40 AM | 8:30 AM |
| 11:00 AM | 10:00 AM |
| 12:20 PM | 11:30 AM |
| 1:20 PM | 12:50 PM |
| 4:00 PM | 3:00 PM |
| 6:10 PM | 5:30 PM |
| 7:15 PM | 6:00 PM |
⏳ Travel Time: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
📍 Distance: 24 km
🏠 Recommended Stay:
- Palabaddala Tea & Eco Lodge – Offers accommodation, food, transport, and parking facilities.
📞 Contact: 076 105 4433 (Lahiru)
🛤️ Kuruwita to Adavi Kanda (Bus Service)
| Departure Times |
|---|
| 6:00 AM, 7:10 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:45 AM, 9:10 AM, 9:30 AM |
| 10:40 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:35 PM, 2:20 PM, 3:50 PM, 5:10 PM, 6:05 PM |
Travel Guide for Pilgrims via Sadagala Route 🥰🐢🐿️🍀🦀🍃
Traveling to Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) via the Sadagala Route, also known as the Marewattha Route.
First, a quick note: This route is not ideal for beginners or large groups. Wildlife such as Leeches and leopards are found along the way, so only experienced travelers who love nature should use this path.
How to Get There
- Starting from Hatton:
- Travel to Maskeliya.
- From Maskeliya, take the Nallathanniya route.
- About 1 km past Mohini Falls, you will reach Mulgama Junction.
- Distance: approximately 13 km from Maskeliya to Mulgama.
- From Mulgama Junction:
- Turn left and follow the road until you reach a fork.
- Take the upper road (right-hand side) as it is more suitable for vehicles.
- The upper road leads to the final stop: Rajamale Mariamman Kovil, about 7 km away.
- While both roads lead to the same place, the lower road is more scenic but less vehicle-friendly.
- Vehicle Parking:
- Vehicles can be parked at the designated parking area near the end of the road.
- From Parking to the Peak:
- A 5 km trek begins from the parking area, taking approximately 3 hours to reach the summit.
- Note: There is an entry fee (please confirm the latest prices in the comments).
Important Notes
- This route has no shops, lighting, restrooms, or shelters along the way. Be prepared for the journey.
- Wildlife (such as leopards) and leeches are common on this path, so avoid unnecessary stops.
- It is not recommended to travel alone for safety reasons.
Joining the Main Route
- The Sadagala Route merges with the Hatton Route near Mahagiridambe, approximately 210 steps from the summit.
Fishing Hut
- Along this route, you will find the Fishing Hut, where you can:
- Rest, eat, and even take a dip.
- This spot is ideal for a unique nature experience.
📝 Tips for Travelers
- Prefer CTB buses for safety and reliability.
- Online or station ticket bookings are available for trains.
- If you’re driving, parking facilities are accessible in all key areas.
Tips for Pilgrimage
- Best Time: Visit between December and April, preferably on weekdays to avoid large crowds.
- Timing: Start your climb at night to reach the summit by dawn and witness the Ira Sevaya.
- Gear Up:
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Warm clothing (it gets very cold)
- A flashlight or headlamp
- Water and snacks
- Respect the Sacredness: Many pilgrims climb barefoot as a sign of devotion. Maintain silence and respect the journey of others.
Plan Your Adventure: Explore Our Interactive Map!
To make your journey even easier, check out our interactive map, where we’ve marked all these amazing destinations. Use it to plan your trip and discover more hidden gems in Sri Lanka!
To plan your trip with public transportation in Sri Lanka, visit Sri Lanka Railways for train schedules.
Special Thanks to Fantastic Travelers Facebook Page to share the details.
