Adam's Peak (Sri Pada) Explained

Adam's Peak Sri Pada is a conical sacred mountain in central Sri Lanka. It stands two thousand two hundred forty three metres tall.

Near the summit sits a hollow rock formation measuring 1.8 metres long. Several traditions identify it as a footprint.

The ascent follows thousands of cement and rough stone steps. Electric light illuminates the trails for six months.

Pilgrims usually climb between December and May. Peak season falls in April, aiming to reach the top before dawn.

At sunrise, Adam's Peak casts a triangular shadow on the plain. The dark shape moves quickly downward.

Adam's Peak is measured at this height above sea level.

Halfway up stands a Peace Pagoda built by Nipponzan Myohoji in 1978.

The region around Adam's Peak is a wildlife reserve housing elephants to leopards. The mountain remains a place of pilgrimage.