Most people climb Adam's Peak (Sri Pada) from Hatton through Nallathanni. It's the easiest route, with steps, shops and crowds all the way up.
There is a shorter way. It starts at Murray Estate, climbs through the cloud forest of Rajamale to the Sandagala Thenna rock plain, and joins the Hatton route at Mahagiridamba. It takes 5 to 6 hours from the trailhead to the summit.
Shorter doesn't mean easier, though. This guide covers how to get to the trailhead, what the trail is like and what you need to know before you try it.
Before You Go: Who This Trail Is For
This trail is only for experienced jungle trekkers.
It isn't suitable for elderly pilgrims, families with children or anyone who hasn't walked forest trails before. People without that experience can get lost, get hurt or run into wild animals.
Here's what to expect:
- Leopards. Leopards are known to roam this area, and there's a risk of an encounter anywhere on the trail.
- Rough terrain. You can expect falls, slips, scrapes and cuts.
- No help nearby. If someone in your group gets hurt, there's nobody close by to help.
- No facilities. There are no shops, no electricity and no toilets on the trail.
If that sounds like too much, take the Hatton route. It's the easiest way up Sri Pada for a reason.
Is the Murray Estate Route Legal?
Yes. Pilgrims are officially allowed to use the footpath on this route to reach Sri Pada, so there's no legal problem with hiking it.
The rule is simple: stay on the path. This is protected forest, and stepping off the trail into the jungle, even by a single step, is against the law.
Camping is also prohibited. You don't need to camp anyway. From the trailhead you can reach the summit in 5 to 6 hours, so there's no reason to spend a night at Sandagala Thenna. Plan your hike to finish in daylight.
How to Get to the Murray Estate Trailhead
Step 1: Mulgama Junction
From Maskeliya, cross the Maussakele bridge toward Nallathanni. Just before Nallathanni you'll reach Mulgama Junction.
The turn-off to the Fishing Hut / Murray Estate road is here: 📍 6°49'30.0"N 80°31'39.0"E
Step 2: The Fishing Hut Road
Turn left onto the Fishing Hut road and drive about 9 km to the official start of the trail.
About a kilometre before the end, you'll reach another junction: 📍 6°47'53.6"N 80°31'30.6"E
Signboards here point to Fishing Hut and Sri Pada. Take the Sri Pada road uphill to Rajamale Estate.
Step 3: The Trailhead
The trail officially starts at a small hut about 1,530 m above sea level: 📍 6°48'01.7"N 80°31'29.9"E
Transport Options
- Tuk-tuk: You can hire one from Mulgama Junction.
- Bus: A public bus runs on this road at set times and can take you to Murray Estate.
- Your own vehicle: It's safer not to bring a private vehicle. If you do, you can usually arrange to park at one of the estate houses for a small fee.
The estate has plenty of workers' line houses and a few small shops. Stock up on water and snacks here, because there's nothing after this point.
Driving yourself? Rapid Adventures offers self-drive rentals and a driving permit service for foreign visitors. See our options here.
The Trail: Murray Estate to Sri Pada
Trailhead to Sandagala Thenna (about 2 km)
The trail first runs a short distance through tea fields and then enters the forest. After about 2 km you'll climb over Rajamale and come out onto Sandagala Thenna, an open rock plain about 1,830 m above sea level.
This is the highlight of the route. On a clear day you get one of the best views of Adam's Peak from anywhere on the mountain.
Sandagala Thenna to Mahagiridamba (about 4 km)
From the rock plain the footpath drops back into the forest. Follow it for about 4 more kilometres and you'll come out at the signboard marking the start of Mahagiridamba on the Hatton-Nallathanni route.
From there you finish the climb to the summit on the Hatton route, along with the other pilgrims.
What the Trail Is Like
This trail doesn't feel anything like the busy Hatton steps.
- Overgrown paths. Plants often cover the footpath, so watch where you're going.
- Confusing forks. In some places the trail splits in two, or animal tracks branch off it. Stop, check carefully and choose the main path. It's usually clear once you look.
- Streams. You'll cross several small streams along the way.
- Hornets and wasps. Hornet and wasp nests are common along the route. Walk quietly.
- Leeches. There are lots of them. Leech socks or salt will help.
- Mist and cold. Expect thick mist, cold air and dense nelu thickets most of the way.
The views make up for it. As you walk, you can see across to the Hatton route, including the Japanese Peace Pagoda and the waterfalls on that side of the mountain.
Why You Should Never Hike This Route at Night
On the Hatton route, people usually climb at night to catch the sunrise. Don't do that here.
Leopards are common in this part of the forest, and the trail has no lights, no people and no easy way out. Hike only in daylight.
The people who use this path most are estate workers carrying loads up to the shops near the top. It's a working trail, not a tourist trail.
For families, or for anyone who doesn't know the jungle, this route can be life-threatening. We can't stress that enough.
Things to See on the Way to the Trailhead
The drive from Mulgama Junction is worth slowing down for. Along the way you'll pass:
- Gartmore Falls Viewpoint
- Murray Estate
- Maussakele Reservoir
- Murray Falls
- Fishing Hut
If you're walking in or have your own transport, you can stop at these on the way in or on the way back.
Murray Estate Route at a Glance
What to Pack
- Plenty of water and snacks, bought at Murray Estate
- Leech socks or salt
- A warm layer and a rain jacket
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip
- A basic first aid kit
- A fully charged phone and a power bank
- An offline map with the trail and coordinates saved
Respect the Trail
This is a forest trail inside a protected area. Don't litter. Carry every wrapper and bottle back out with you.
The route is for pilgrimage, not for messing around. Treat it with respect, stay on the path and keep your group together.
FAQ
Q: Is the Murray Estate route the shortest way to Adam's Peak?
A: Yes. In distance it's the shortest route to Sri Pada, but it's much harder than the Hatton-Nallathanni route.
Q: How long does the Murray Estate route take?
A: About 5 to 6 hours from the trailhead to the summit, depending on your pace.
Q: Can I camp at Sandagala Thenna?
A: No. Camping is prohibited, and you don't need to because the climb can be done in one day.
Q: Is it safe for beginners?
A: No. This route is for experienced jungle trekkers only.
Q: Where does the trail join the main route?
A: At Mahagiridamba, on the Hatton-Nallathanni route.
Plan Your Sri Pada Hike
If you want to try the Murray Estate route but would rather not go alone, email us at book@rapidadventures.lk and we'll help you plan it. For more hikes and adventures around Sri Lanka, check out Rapid Adventures Experiences.
