This fascinating mountain top located amidst the scenic southern hill country has always been a favourite subject of many poets, historians and the like. Known by various names such as Adam’s Peak (where some believe Adam first set foot on earth after being cast out from heaven), Sri Padha, implying the sacred foot print of Lord Buddha or Samanala Kanda (mountain of the butterflies).
There are many speculations as to whom this “footprint” belongs to. Some say it’s the footprint of St Thomas, the early apostle of India or even Lord Shiva while the popular belief is that it belongs to Lord Buddha. However, this is an interesting place to visit and quite a climb too if one is keen on seeing for themselves what all the fuss is about.
It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and there are many rituals to engage in prior to climbing the sacred mountain. The mountain is said to be the area of the deity Saman who is the protector of the region. One is not supposed to say foul words while on this pilgrimage and devotees prepare themselves for months, abstaining from meat and liquor prior to the climb. The climb takes several hours and it is known to be quite an arduous one.
However, there are many resting places along the way in which one can stretch out one’s limbs and relax before continuing forward. The aim is to reach the summit before sunrise. The golden globe of the sun peeking out from behind the clouds making the tall shadows of the trees beneath is a sight well worthy of the climb as the summit also allows the visitors affine view of the entire area. However the best sight yet comes after a few minutes after dawn when the sun casts a perfect shadow of the peak against the misty clouds below. As the sun rises higher, this eerie yet wonderful shadow disappears to its base taking this rare and spectacular sight with it forever.
The peak season for climbing is in April while it is not advisable to climb the mountain outside the season which falls between December and May. Being located in the wet region, this area is known for heavy rains, thick mist and winds which is why climbing the mountain out of season is not recommended for visitors. But come December to May the place floods with sunlight and the trekking through the lush forest towards the summit is very much delightful. One can also see hoards of butterflies flying to the top and it is often said that these colourful creatures fly upwards to die, having worshipped the Sacred Footprint one last time.
Sri Lanka holidays are never complete without a visit to this fascinating summit steeped in centuries of history and folklore. Travel Sri Lanka of Elgant Travels offers comprehensive Sri Lanka tours that will cover many of the undiscovered nooks and corners of this beautiful island including the sacred Adam’s Peak which has been a site of fascination for many people over centuries of time.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
