Adam’s Peak stands at 2,243m (7,359ft) and is unique in that it holds significance in several major religions thanks to the curious depression at its summit, known as the Sri Pada or Sacred Footprint. Buddhists believe the impression to be Buddha’s, Muslims claim it as the footprint of Adam’s, while Hindus believe it belongs to Shiva. I prefer the term ‘Samanalakande’; Butterfly Mountain. Where butterflies go to die. I think it has a certain beauty to it.

It’s customary for tourists, and pilgrims, to leave in the wee hours of the morning to make the 5500 steps up to the top to watch the sunrise. So that’s what we did! Leaving the guest house at 0215 we began our hike up the 1400m ascent.

The first part was hard – not much sleep, legs getting used to the steps and lack of energy. We had a snack about an hour in and it really gave us a lot of pep to make the next section easier.

The steps were irregular – sometimes really small with others so large you really had to heave yourself up! I couldn’t believe how much my legs were fatiguing and we had to take quick regular breaks after each mini set of stairs, or making ourselves climb to the next tea house until we could rest.

As it was out of season there was hardly anyone on the trail. We made it to the top in a sweaty two hours. We spoke to a local today who said the whole shebang took her 18 hours!! Thousands of people descend on the climb in season, especially during poya (full moon) days and all Buddhists like to complete it at least once in their lifetimes; it’s one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred places.

Guided by the light of the full moon (well, two days after full moon) we barely needed our head torches. What we did need at the top was layers. It was sooo cold! I was wearing all the layers I brought with me on this trip but it still didn’t stop by hands from freezing.

The numb fingertips and stiff legs were worth it for the views. The temple at the top was closed due to low season but we sat and watched the sunrise with about 40 other people, some of which seemed to ignore the ‘be silence’ message painted on the wall.

It was breathtaking – oranges and reds lit up the sky, while the moon still lingered on. Would have loved to have stayed up there for ages but we had a train to catch!

Walking down we got to see the surrounding beauty of the mountains and waterfalls that we were unable to see in the dark as we made our way up. Every step made my legs tremble; each step I took reverberating around my body. Hopefully I’ll be able to get out of bed tomorrow without too many involuntary noises, especially as we have planned in a four hour hike!!

Wish me luck!