FAQ based on Adam’s Peak Trekking
Q1. When is the best time to go to Adam's Peak?
A1. Climbing Adam’s Peak is best done between January and March to experience the atmosphere at its best. During this time the path is lit up, tea shacks line the path, and pilgrims mix with tourists. We recommend to avoid the Sri Lankan New Year period in mid-April, any full moon day (known as ‘Poya’ days) and, if possible, even the weekend. This is when the path is busiest and you could find yourself queueing for the top.
Q2. What is the best time to start the Adam's Peak trek?
A2. The main intention of most travelers is to watch the beautiful scenic view of sunrise from the summit of the mountain. It normally takes around 4 - 5 hours for the ascending climb on a weekday and this may lengthen by a couple of hours on a weekend - as it’s crowded. Therefore on weekdays, the best time to arrive at the trailhead is around 12.30 a.m. If you are not very particular about the sunrise, you may start your climb at your convenience.
Q3. How long does it take for trekking from Dellhousie ( foothills of Adam’s Peak ) to the top of Adam's Peak?
Normally it takes around 4 to 5 hours to climb and similar hours to come down as well (if you climb at an average pace). Don’t be deceived with the idea that the descent is easier and quicker.
Q4. How hard is it to climb Adam's Peak?
Honestly, it’s quite challenging. If you love to hike and challenge yourself physically and mentally, or if you are a spiritual person, a hike to Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka will probably be the highlight of your trip. We would recommend to schedule the Adam’s Peak trek after all the other hikes on your trip.
Q5. Is it possible to do the Adam’s Peak trek, offseason?
Yes, It’s possible to climb Adam’s Peak offseason but make sure you bring food, water, and a good torch. You can also climb it by day but the summit is often obscured by clouds and, even if it’s clear, you won’t see the famous shadow in the morning. We recommend you to do this during the day time with guidance.
Q6. What are the available routes?
There are six possible routes to access the Peak:
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Rathnapura-Palabaddala, 2. Hatton-Nallathanni (Dalhousie), 3 Kuruwita-Erathna, 4. Murraywatte, 5. Mookuwatte 6. Malimboda.
From those most popular roads are Rathnapura-Palabaddala, Hatton-Nallathanni (Dalhousie) and Kuruwita-Erathna.
Q7 What is the easiest route?
Climbing Adam’s Peak is easiest from Dalhousie (7km, around 4 to 5 hours climbing). An alternative, much longer route (15km, around 7 to 8 hours) ascends from the Ratnapura side of the mountain via Palabaddale.
Q8. How do I get to Adam's Peak from Colombo?
The best way to get to Adam’s peak from Colombo is by train. Head to the Colombo Fort railway station and take a train to Hatton. Once in Hatton, take the bus or tuk-tuk to Dalhousie (Nallathaniya). Or else talk to a professional excursion organiser for more details.
Q9. What should I wear?
Although the climb up will be hot and sweaty, the atmosphere near the top is extremely chilly. Follow the locals’ example and wear long pants. Bring your hats, gloves and sweaters.
You may download the checklist and preparation guidelines free of charge here.
Q10. How many steps does Adam's Peak climb have?
5500 steps (from Dalhousie).
Q11. What’s the most less crowded route?
Kuruwita Erathna road, as it’s the most difficult.
Q12. What’s the most challenging route?
Kuruwita - Erathna road
Q13. Tell me about the local interactions of this climb?
Lots of locals climb Adam's Peak during December - May period. It is considered one of the most sacred places by every Sri Lankan belonging to any religion. They climb this sacred mountain as a pilgrimage. Therefore if you plan to climb Adam's Peak during this period, you’ll meet lots of locals, and should be able to join them and may even experience eating some of the home made local sweets prepared specially for the pilgrimage. It is also required to mention that during this period the path is busy and you could find yourself queueing for the top.
Q14. What are the options for hotels in accommodations?
There are many options in OTAs. With simple web search, you may get many options too. But all may not be strategically located to facilitate the Adam’s Peak climb. Please do your research and read all the reviews. Talking to an excursion organiser who could facilitate the climb and accommodation, both is another option.
Q15. Do I need assistance to do the Adam’s Peak climb?
It is possible to climb alone without a guide. But accompanied by a guide will make your task easier and he will be there to help with any issues and at the same time, provide much information throughout the trekking.
Q16. What else can I do in the vicinity of Adam’s Peak?
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Wellness / Ayurveda treatments
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Visiting many waterfalls around the area
Q17. Is the Adam's Peak climb child-friendly?
A17. To be realistic, this is a hard climb even for adults. Therefore this cannot be recommended for children under 6 years. Even for older children this trek will be a tiring and hard climb - depending on their fitness level.
Q18. Can you buy food and water during the climb?
If you plan to have the climb during December-May period ( during the season) you will find tea shacks lined in the path where you can buy drinking water, tea, snacks and some local foods from them. But in the off season period those tea shacks are unavailable hence you won't find a place to buy them during the climb.
However, organised excursions are usually done with enough tea/coffee, snacks and water.
