A section of the pathway leading to Sri Pada's upper shrine has been blocked following a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall, though alternative access routes remain available for visitors.
Heavy rainfall has caused a landslide along the Sri Pada pilgrimage route, with soil and vegetation collapsing from a rock face and obstructing the pathway to the sacred site. According to the Nallathanniya Police Station Chief Inspector R. Niroshan, the collapse occurred in the Ehela Kanuwa area on the Nallathanniya-Sri Pada route, where fallen soil and plant debris now block the steps leading to Sri Pada Maluwa. This location has experienced similar earth slips in the past, suggesting the area is prone to such incidents during adverse weather conditions.
While the blockage affects one major access point, authorities indicate that pilgrims and visitors are not entirely unable to reach the summit. The Nallathanniya Police noted that the site remains accessible through an alternative route via the Ratnapura direction and Idikatu Pahana. The timing of the incident coincides with the off-season period for Sri Pada pilgrimage, meaning fewer visitors are currently affected by the route closure.
Cleanup efforts are expected to commence once weather conditions improve sufficiently for safe operations. The authorities have indicated they will clear the affected area and remove the accumulated debris to restore normal access along the blocked section. Until then, those wishing to visit Sri Pada during this season are advised to use the available alternative routes.
