Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)
Western
Built between 1908 and 1909 by architect H.L. Saibo Lebbe for Pettah's Indian trading community, the Red Mosque earned its nickname from the striking red-and-white geometric brickwork covering its Indo-Saracenic facade, with domes shaped like pomegranates rather than the more common onion shape. Rising above the narrow, crowded streets of Pettah, its twin minarets have reportedly served as a landmark for sailors approaching Colombo's harbour since it was built. It is one of the few buildings of its kind in Sri Lanka that actively welcomes outside visitors, making it a rare chance to see the inside as well as admire it from the street.
Best time to visit
Open 9:30am-5:30pm, Saturday to Thursday — check ahead, as visiting hours can change, especially on Fridays.
Visitor tip
Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is required; visiting hours can change, so check ahead.
Local pick
Visitors are usually let in through Gate No. 3 rather than the main entrance — ask locally if you can't find the visitor entrance amid the surrounding market stalls.
Quick answers
Where is Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)?
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque) is in Western Province, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)?
Open 9:30am-5:30pm, Saturday to Thursday — check ahead, as visiting hours can change, especially on Fridays.
How far is Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque) from Colombo?
About 2 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.
What is near Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)?
Nearby places include Pettah Market (about 1 km away), Pettah Floating Market (about 1 km away), Wolvendaal Church (about 1 km away), Colombo Lotus Tower (about 1 km away).
Add to my itineraryNearby places
- Pettah MarketWestern Province
- Pettah Floating MarketColombo
- Wolvendaal ChurchColombo
- Colombo Lotus TowerWestern Province
More places in Western Province
More to see around Colombo: things to do in Colombo. Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.