Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak / Sumanakuta)

Verification: in review · Coordinates: unverified

What is this site?

A 2,243-meter conical mountain summit enshrining a sacred footprint indentation (*Sripada*), revered across multiple global religious traditions.

Why it matters

One of the world's most enduring multi-faith pilgrimage peaks, holding canonical status in the Buddhist Solosmasthana network.

Description

Royal pilgrims including King Vijayabahu I and Nissanka Malla installed rest stops (*Ambalamas*) and iron access chains along the steep ascents. Associated patrons (as supplied): King Valagamba, King Vijayabahu I, King Parakramabahu II. Key features to look for: Summit shrine room illuminated against the dawn horizon; The triangular shadow (*Ira Sevaya*) cast across cloud banks at sunrise; Ancient iron chains and carved footholds along the precipice; Pilgrim stairways lined with illuminated night lanterns.

Then & now

Drag across the photo to compare a historical photograph with today.

Photos

Historical and scholarly sources

Reference as supplied in project dataset (pending verification): Solosmasthana #4; Peak Wilderness Protected Zone

Visiting responsibly

Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes and hats where requested, never climb on monuments or pose with your back to Buddha images, and follow guidance from custodians and the Department of Archaeology.