Adam’s Peak, A Sacred Summit in Sri Lanka

By Nisal hasaranga -

Nestled in the heart of southwestern Sri Lanka, Adam’s Peak, also known as Sri Pada, stands as a beacon of spiritual significance and natural beauty. Rising to an impressive height of 7,559 feet (2,304 meters), this conical mountain is located 11 miles (18 km) northeast of Ratnapura, the capital of Sabaragamuwa province1.



The Sacred Footprint

One of the most remarkable features of Adam’s Peak is the Sri Pada, or “Sacred Footprint.” This hollow, measuring 67 inches (170 cm) long and 18 inches (46 cm) wide, resembles a human foot and holds profound religious importance. It is venerated by Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims alike, making it a unique pilgrimage site where people of various faiths converge in reverence2.



A Natural Marvel

While Adam’s Peak is not the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka—that title belongs to Pidurutalagala—it is certainly one of the most iconic. Its pyramid-like shape dominates the surrounding landscape, creating a striking silhouette against the sky. The region around Adam’s Peak is a lush tropical rainforest, home to the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, established in 1940 to protect its rich biodiversity3. This sanctuary is a haven for wildlife, including an isolated population of elephants that roam the dense forests, separated from the lowlands by expansive tea estates.



Source of Life

Adam’s Peak is also a crucial watershed, giving rise to three of Sri Lanka’s major rivers: the Kelani, the Walawe, and the Kalu4. These rivers are vital to the island’s ecosystem and agriculture, supporting countless communities along their banks. The mountain itself is composed of gneiss rock and is renowned for its deposits of garnets, rubies, and sapphires, adding to its allure and historical significance.



A Tapestry of Beliefs

The cultural and religious tapestry of Adam’s Peak is as diverse as its natural surroundings. The indigenous people of Sri Lanka, who worshipped the mountain as Samanalakanda, believed it to be the abode of Saman, one of the island’s four guardian deities. Hindus refer to it as Sivan Adi Padham, attributing the sacred footprint to the god Shiva. According to Buddhist traditions, documented in the ancient chronicle Mahavamsa, the footprint was left by the Buddha during his third and final visit to Sri Lanka. Portuguese Christians arriving in the 16th century claimed it to be the footprint of St. Thomas, who is believed to have brought Christianity to the island.


A Pilgrimage for All

Every year, thousands of pilgrims from different faiths embark on the journey to the summit of Adam’s Peak. The climb is both a physical and spiritual endeavor, with many starting their ascent in the early hours to reach the peak by sunrise. The sight of the first light casting a shadow of the peak across the landscape is a breathtaking reward for their efforts.


Adam’s Peak is more than just a mountain; it is a symbol of unity, spirituality, and natural wonder. Its sacred footprint and the diverse beliefs it embodies make it a unique destination that continues to inspire awe and reverence in all who visit

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