Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka: A Complete Guide to the Mountain Hike
- Kate Colliety
- Apr 18
- 9 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Adam's Peak Sri Lanka, locally known as Sri Pada, stands centrally in the country and holds religious significance. The tale tells the story of how Adam, Buddha, or Shiva took their first steps on earth here, uniting many religions. It has now become a sacred place of pilgrimage, particularly for monks, but is also a popular tourist destination that attracts hikers from around the world.
The hike consists of 5,500 steps weaving themselves up to the peak of the mountain which is 2,243m (7,359ft), a height that rewards climbers with panoramic views. The climb is often started in the shrouds of darkness (2-3am) to avoid the sun, making the peak's view even more rewarding when daylight breaks.
If the mammoth amount of steps haven't put you off, keep on reading as we share what you need to know about hiking Adam's Peak, from where to start, where to stay, and how long it will take you.
Contents
What To Expect From Climbing Adam's Peak
Let me set the scene for our hike: it's pitch black, 3am, raining buckets, and we don't really know where to go. That's how our Sri Pada Adam’s Peak adventure started, but in true hikers' fashion, we were still excited to get going. I think that's described as type-2 fun.
Walking through the quiet town of Dalhousie had an eerie feel, but we soon spotted another bin bag (how I like to describe tourists in ponchos), and we plodded on through the splashing puddles. The darkness was only interrupted by our headlamps and occasional tea shop lights.
The first steps ease you in, slowly gaining elevation until you reach a monastery. Here there will be a monk asking for an 'unofficial' entrance fee, which is voluntary. You will then be met by a second monk who will try to put a bracelet on you for a fee. We quickly bypassed this and carried on up, knowing this a common tourist trap around Adam’s Peak.
The stairs get steeper and more challenging the higher up you go, but luckily once you're on the right path, you can't get lost - there's only one way... up! We’d read along the way there are numbered poles that count down from 21 to 1, helping you track your progress. We didn’t spot these in the dark but would imagine they are great for tracking your progress.
Drenched through around 3 hours later, we summited Adam's Peak. To our surprise, there is a small cafe at the top which sells much-needed cups of tea! It is cold at the top, and we didn't have enough layers on - a mistake we won't make again. You can wait here till the fragments of sunrise appear, before taking the last few steps up to the viewpoint.
Sadly, we had zero view apart from clouds at the top, meaning a little defeated we started to descend back down 5,500 steps. To our joy, we glimpsed the spectacular view as the clouds parted on the way down - the lush green valleys and surrounding mountains suddenly revealed themselves in all their glory alongside a flowing waterfall. We made our way back to our guesthouse where we ate a delicious local breakfast of string hoppers, dhal curry, and fresh fruit, before jumping straight back into bed for a well-deserved rest.
How Hard Is It To Climb Adam's Peak?
This all depends on your fitness level, but I'd say most people find the Adam’s Peak hike pretty challenging. 5,500 steps is no easy feat, and by the end, our legs were shaking with fatigue. This of course does not mean you can't do it. As mentioned earlier, this is a pilgrimage for many, meaning it shouldn't be easy!
The difficulty comes from both the number of steps and their steepness, especially in the final third of the climb. The first hour or so is relatively gentle, with gradual inclines and some flat sections before it gets extremely steep.
It may also be worth considering going down, this can be heavy on the old knees so perhaps bring walking poles.
How Long Does It Take To Climb Adam's Peak?
The Adam’s Peak hike length varies depending on your pace. Our host told us to leave at 2am and allow 4 hours until sunrise! This felt too early, and we decided on leaving at 3am. We still had to wait 30 minutes at the top for sunrise, but this also meant we had time for a few breaks along the way.
Tip: Don't leave too early as waiting at the top is cold! We were told it would take us 4 hours to climb, but it took us 2½ hours. It's better to get an extra hour of sleep and start your hike around 3am for a typical 6am sunrise.
Do You Need A Guide For Adam's Peak?
You definitely don't need a guide for Adam’s Peak; the trail is easy to follow, and there are lots of other people hiking it alongside you.
Even in the middle of the night, there are usually enough other hikers that you can simply follow the flow of headlamps making their way up the mountain. Additionally, there are small tea shops and rest stops along the way that serve as landmarks.
If you're hiking during the pilgrimage season (December to April), the entire route is illuminated with lights, making navigation even easier.
Planning to explore the Knuckles Mountain Range next? Based on our experience, we highly recommend going with a local guide - read all about why you need a Knuckles Mountain Range guide here!
What To Pack For The Hike Up Adam's Peak?
What to Wear?
T-shirt for starting the hike
Vest or another layer
Jumper/Fleece (crucial for the cold summit)
Long trousers
Warm socks
Gloves
Hat
Trainers or hiking shoes
In Your Bag
At least 1.5 litres of water
Snacks
Change of t-shirt (your base layer will get sweaty)
Money
Sun cream
Walking poles (highly recommended for the descent)
Tip: Pack a dry bag or waterproof cover for your backpack. Our hike started in pouring rain, and keeping your spare clothes dry is essential when you're dealing with cold temperatures at the summit.
How Much Does It Cost To Hike Adam's Peak?
The Adam’s Peak hike is completely free to access, but be wary of scams near the base of the climb. Monks (we're unsure if they are real monks) stand at the base asking for donations. One particular monk puts bracelets on travellers for 'free' but asks for a hefty donation afterward.
Where To Stay Before & After Adam's Peak?
It's definitely a good idea to stay in the town of Dalhousie before the hike. There's not much here, so most people leave after breakfast or only stay one more night. The prices here for food are inflated as there isn’t much choice, but we're glad we stayed the extra night to catch up on sleep and get dry!
Our top recommended Adam’s Peak Hotels
Daffodils Inn - Simple, clean rooms just 5 minutes from the trail start.
Hugging Clouds - Cosy rooms with trendy décor and reliable Wi-Fi.
Tea Breeze Motel - Quiet location with comfortable beds and hot showers (perfect after the hike).
Where We Stayed
We chose Queens Ark Hotel, which was perfect for our needs. The staff prepared breakfast for when we arrived back, and the hot showers afterward were heavenly. The rooms were basic but clean, and the location just 10 minutes from the trail start was ideal.
Tip: Book your accommodation in advance during pilgrimage season (December-April) as Dalhousie gets extremely busy, especially around full moon days.
Where Is Adam's Peak Sri Lanka?
Adam’s Peak, is located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka's central highlands. The foothills of Adam's Peak and the start of the trail is from the town of Dalhousie (also sometimes spelled Dalhousie or Dalhousie).
The mountain itself stands at 2,243 meters (7,359 feet) tall and is the fourth highest peak in Sri Lanka. Its distinctive conical shape makes it recognisable from many parts of the surrounding region.
Craving more adventure after your hike? The Knuckles Mountain Range is home to some of Sri Lanka’s most incredible treks - don’t miss this unforgettable day tour
How To Get To Adam's Peak?
From Kandy to Adam's Peak (Dalhousie)
By Train: 5 hours, $2-5
Take the scenic train from Kandy to Hatton, which takes about 3.5-4 hours. This train journey offers stunning views of tea plantations and mountains. From Adam’s Peak Hatton, it is a one-hour drive to Dalhousie. We recommend the local bus; there's one every half hour for approximately 80 LKR ($0.40). Look for buses heading to "Maskeliya" and then "Dalhousie."
By Bus: 4-5 hours, $1-2
Take a bus from Kandy to Hatton (2.5-3 hours), then change to a bus to Dalhousie (1-1.5 hours). Buses are frequent but can get crowded.
By Taxi: 3 hours, $50-70
The most comfortable option if your budget allows. You can arrange a taxi from Kandy directly to Dalhousie. This is especially convenient if traveling at night to start the hike immediately. Consider sharing with other travelers to reduce costs.
From Nuwara Eliya to Adam's Peak (Dalhousie)
By Train: 4 hours, $2-5
First, take a tuk-tuk from Nuwara Eliya to Nanuoya train station (20-30 minutes). From there, catch the train to Hatton (1.5 hours), then take a bus to Dalhousie.
From Ella to Adam's Peak (Dalhousie)
By Train: 6 hours, $3-7
Take the scenic train from Ella to Hatton (4 hours), then connect to Dalhousie by bus (1 hour).
By Bus: 7-8 hours, $3-5
Take a bus from Ella to Hatton with a change in Nuwara Eliya, then connect to Dalhousie.
By Taxi: 4 hours, $50-70
Direct but expensive. Consider sharing with other travellers to reduce the cost.
Hire A Tuktuk: What We Did
We rented a Tuk Tuk from Tuktuk Rental meaning we had the freedom to drive the country, this also made it super easy to drive to Dalhouise for Adam’S Peak. Use our code KandM for 5% off your booking at Tuktuk Rental.
When Is The Best Time To Hike Adam's Peak?
Best Time of Day
For the Adam’s Peak hike, early morning is undoubtedly the best time. Starting between 2-3am allows you to reach the summit for sunrise (typically around 6am) and avoid the heat of the day.
While it's possible to climb during daylight hours, the views are often obscured by clouds that typically form around the mountain after 9-10am.
Best Season
From the first full moon in December to the first full moon in April is considered the pilgrimage season at Sri Pada Adam’s Peak. During this period The weather is generally clearer and drier and the trail is fully illuminated with lights but it can get extremely crowded with human traffic jams on the stairs.
We climbed in November, just before the official pilgrimage season. Although it rained heavily, the trail was almost empty, which made for a peaceful experience. If you hike in off-season (May to November) The temple at the top will be closed but the teas shop will still be open (this is essential).
Our recommendation: If possible, visit during pilgrimage season but on a weekday (not near a full moon) for the best balance of good weather, open facilities, and manageable crowds.
Final Thoughts on The Adam’s Peak Hike In Sri Lanka
Hiking Adam’s Peak is a fulfilling journey and we understand why it has become a pilgrimage with religious significance. Even as tourists we enjoyed the physical challenge of summiting the mountain during darkness and the views are a welcome reward at the top.
Top Tips For Travelling Sri Lanka
If you’re visiting Sri Lanka here are our top travel tips:
Rent a Tuk Tuk as Transport - This made our trip! Not only did we have complete freedom and flexibility it allowed us to have authentic relationships with locals. Use our code "KandM" for 5% off Tuktuk Rental
Stay in Homestays - Staying in local homestays meant we experienced authentic food and the local way of life. Everyone was extremely friendly and happy to help.
Don’t Forget the North - Many tourists stick to the south coast but if you have time explore places such as Anuradhapura, Trincomalee and Arugam bay!
Embrace The Chaos and get stuck in, the locals are friendly and love to help and share information about their home!
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Sri Lankan adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
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