Adam’s Peak

Adam's Peak - the sacred mountain

Begin the arduous 08 km climb to the misty mountaintop around 2am in the morning. You may reach the 2,240 metre high peak – the island’s fourth highest – at dawn to witness a glorious sunrise and the mountain’s shadow, cast by the rising sun on to the clouds below. Legend has it that, the footprint originally carved in the rock, and, now covered by an oversized reproduction set in cement, was made by the Buddha, on his third visit to the island.

The 2,243 metre peak has a great significance for various different religions.  The huge footprint at the summit is believed by Buddhists to be that of Lord Buddha (‘Sri Pada’), whilst believe it is the spot where Adam, from Christian creation myth, first set foot on earth, after being banished from the Garden of Eden. Other Christians believe, it belongs to St. Thomas, the Apostle. To Hindus, the footprint is ‘Lord.  As a result, the peak has been a pilgrimage centre for over 1000 years.  Whatever it’s religious significance, this famous landmark offers some breathtaking views of the hill country.

 

 

The majority of climbers begin their ascent at night in order to arrive at the top in time for a magical sunrise when the mystical shadow of the peak is perfectly cast across the clouds.  It is one of those truly unique moments that will live on in your memory long after the aches and pains from the climb have gone!

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