There is perhaps no other peak so often and regularly ascended by humans, as the Sri Pada. This year as the Sri Pada season begins on December 13, with the Unduvap poya, for some it is an annual pilgrimage that must be undertaken, while to many it is a trip that one must complete at least once in a lifetime. Every year, starting from Unduvap poya till Vesak, pilgrims of all faiths undertake the gruelling trek to its summit, located 7,353 feet above sea level while others make attempts to scale the mountain during its off season when the weather and the climb can be most treacherous.
However, due to various beliefs and customs, the journey, whether during the season or not, is one steeped in tradition, history and legends, with its importance going far beyond. The journey to Sri Pada brings together those of all religions and beliefs in their arduous trek to the top which perhaps silently teaches us that in life too one must undertake life’s journey while living in peace, harmony and brotherhood, with all we chance upon.
A traveller attempting to scale Sri Pada can choose between six routes. Hatton - Nallathanni, the steepest but shortest is considered to be the most popular route among pilgrims, while the Ratnapura - Palabaddala and the Kuruwita - Erathna routes are also those regularly used by travellers. Murrayawatta, Mukkuwatta and Malimbada routes today are however used mainly by adventure travellers and less by pilgrims, due to the difficulties and dangers involved.
However, due to various beliefs and customs, the journey, whether during the season or not, is one steeped in tradition, history and legends, with its importance going far beyond. The journey to Sri Pada brings together those of all religions and beliefs in their arduous trek to the top which perhaps silently teaches us that in life too one must undertake life’s journey while living in peace, harmony and brotherhood, with all we chance upon.
A traveller attempting to scale Sri Pada can choose between six routes. Hatton - Nallathanni, the steepest but shortest is considered to be the most popular route among pilgrims, while the Ratnapura - Palabaddala and the Kuruwita - Erathna routes are also those regularly used by travellers. Murrayawatta, Mukkuwatta and Malimbada routes today are however used mainly by adventure travellers and less by pilgrims, due to the difficulties and dangers involved.
Read more: The tough ascent to a welcome peace
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