Adam's Peak Sunrise Trek
Overnight Experience
Climb the sacred mountain and witness a breathtaking sunrise from 2,243 meters
Duration
Overnight
Start Time
11:00 PM
Difficulty
Moderate
Price
$70
Embark on a spiritual journey to Adam's Peak (Sri Pada), one of Sri Lanka's most sacred mountains revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. The conical peak features a "sacred footprint" – Buddhists believe it's Buddha's, Hindus claim Shiva's, Muslims say Adam's, and Christians believe it's St. Thomas'.
The overnight climb of 5,500 steps through jungle and mountain paths leads to a spectacular sunrise view where your shadow is cast upon the clouds below – a phenomenon called "Shadow of the Peak." Best experienced from December to May during the pilgrimage season.
8:00 PM - Departure from Hotel
Pickup from your hotel in Hatton, Nuwara Eliya, or Ella. Transfer to Dalhousie village at the mountain base (approximately 1-2 hours depending on location).
10:00 PM - Arrival & Preparation
Arrive at Dalhousie. Light dinner at a local restaurant. Final preparations:
- • Equipment check (flashlight, warm clothing)
- • Trek briefing by guide
- • Water and snack distribution
- • Walking stick rental (optional, Rs. 50)
11:00 PM - Begin Night Ascent
Start the climb with headlamps/flashlights. The trail is well-lit by rest stops during pilgrimage season. The 7 km trek includes:
- • First 2 km: Gentle incline through tea plantations
- • Next 3 km: Moderate climb with stone steps
- • Final 2 km: Steeper climb to the summit
- • Rest Stops: Tea stalls every 500m selling refreshments
- • 5,500 Steps: Numbered markers track your progress
Average climbing time: 3-4 hours | Take breaks as needed
3:00 AM - Reach the Summit
Arrive at the peak (2,243m / 7,359ft). Find a good viewing spot and wait for sunrise. Summit experiences:
- • Visit the sacred footprint shrine
- • Hot tea and snacks from summit shops
- • Buddhist chanting and bell ringing
- • Panoramic mountain views
- • Temperature: 5-10°C (bring warm layers!)
6:00 AM - Spectacular Sunrise
Witness one of nature's most stunning phenomena:
- • Triangular Shadow: The mountain's perfect shadow on clouds
- • 360° Views: See both east and west coasts on clear days
- • Cloud Sea: Mountains emerging from clouds like islands
- • Rainbow Halos: Colorful circular rainbows around your shadow
7:00 AM - Descent Begins
Start the descent in daylight – much easier but still requires care on steep steps. Descent takes 2-3 hours. Enjoy views you missed in darkness:
- • Lush green jungle canopy
- • Waterfalls along the trail
- • Tea plantation scenery
- • Colorful prayer flags
10:00 AM - Breakfast & Return
Hearty breakfast at Dalhousie restaurant. Transfer back to your hotel with memories of an extraordinary spiritual and physical achievement.
Physical Requirements
- • Fitness Level: Moderate (can walk 7 km)
- • Age: Suitable for ages 10-70
- • Health: No serious heart/knee conditions
- • Total Distance: 14 km round trip
- • Altitude Gain: 1,150 meters
- • Success Rate: 95% reach summit
What to Bring
- • Essential: Flashlight/headlamp with extra batteries
- • Warm jacket or fleece (summit is cold!)
- • Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
- • 2 liters of water
- • Energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, fruits)
- • Light rain jacket (weather can change)
- • Camera with good low-light capability
- • Small cash for tea stalls (Rs. 500-1000)
Pilgrimage Season (Best Time)
December to May: Full moon to full moon. Trail fully lit, all tea stalls open, vibrant atmosphere with thousands of pilgrims. Clear weather and highest sunrise visibility.
Off-Season Climbing
June to November: Possible but challenging. Monsoon rains, limited facilities, fewer lights. More peaceful but requires experienced guide and proper equipment.
- Hotel pickup & drop-off
- Transport to/from Dalhousie
- Experienced trekking guide
- Dinner before climb
- Breakfast after descent
- Water bottles
- Flashlight (if needed)
- • Walking stick rental (Rs. 50)
- • Tea/snacks during climb (Rs. 500-1000)
- • Temple donations (optional)
- • Personal expenses
- • Tips for guide
Conquer the Sacred Peak
Book your Adam's Peak sunrise trek for a life-changing spiritual adventure