Today; 2011 December 10( Undhuwap full moon poya day ) has started the climbing season of Sri Padha until next Wesak full moon poya day. This article is about sacred mountain Sri Padha.
It is located about 122 km away from the colombo and situated in the southern reaches of the central highlands, and adjacent to extensive wildlife reserves. With no other comparable mountains near by; Sri Padha rises prominently above the surrounding area, soaring to a height of 2243 meters above sea levels.
It is easily SL's most revered site, considered sacred not only by Buddhists, but also by Christians, Muslims and Hindus. At the top of the mountain is a slab of rock with a large indentation believed to be the Buddha's foot print, which he left during his legendary third visit to island.
Centuries later , Christians and Muslims developed the belief that this indentation was the footprint of Adam. Thus' Sri Padha is also commonly known as Adam's Peak. The Hindus, according to their own belief, revere the spot of the foot print pf Shiva.
The Climbing season is between December and May, as the heavy rains and strong winds during the other parts of the year makes the ascent difficult and risky. Climbers usually set off in the night to take advantage of the cool temperature, and time their ascent to reach the summit before daybreak. The trek star off in a gradual fashion but becomes more and more strenuous as the climb becomes an almost continuous journey of going up steep, but usually broad steps.
Along the way are dozens of small but colorful and brightly lit tea houses and shops which break the monotony of the climb, andactulay make it quite interesting. These are useful places to take a rest and sip a hot drink. On reaching the peak, there will usually be a huge crowd queuing up to pay respects at the shrine housing the footprint.
After witnessing the magical sunrise on Sri Padha, the crowd disperses and makes its way down.
Idea - "Island of light' - TY Lee
Photograph by Dilan Sampath Kumara
Photograph by Dilan Sampath Kumara
1 comment:
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