Plan your next hike smarter — pack weight checker, hydration needs, calories burned and trail difficulty rating.
In Sri Lanka's climate, plan for 500–750ml per hour in moderate conditions (22–28°C). For hot, humid or exposed trails, increase to 750ml–1L per hour. For Adam's Peak, bring at least 2.5L — water is available at stalls on the way up but it's wise to carry your own. For Horton Plains, bring 2L minimum as there are limited resupply points on the loop.
For day hikes, keep your pack to 10–15% of your body weight. A 70kg person should carry no more than 7–10kg for comfort. For multi-day treks, experienced hikers can go up to 20–25% body weight, but this increases fatigue significantly. Always pack the essentials: water, food, first aid, rain cover, torch and a charged phone.
Adam's Peak (Sri Pada) is doable for most reasonably fit people — the path is entirely steps and well-maintained. However, it is steep and long (around 5,500 steps). Most people climb at night to reach the summit for sunrise. Expect 3–4 hours up and 2–3 hours down. Good footwear, a torch, warm layers for the summit and plenty of water are essential.
For most Sri Lanka trails: good trail shoes or hiking boots (essential), a daypack with 20–30L capacity, at least 2L water capacity, a light rain jacket (weather can change fast), sun protection, a first aid kit, insect repellent, a torch or headlamp, and a fully charged phone with offline maps downloaded. For summit hikes, add a warm layer for the early morning chill.