[2025 Colombo Attraction] Travel Guide for Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Updated Mar)
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No.5 of Best Things to Do in Colombo
The Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is located near the Beta Market. 1. The striking red mosque was built in 1908 and is one of the landmarks of Colombo. It's a red and white brick building that stands out in the bustling Beta district. It is said that in the early 20th century, many sailors to Sri Lanka used it to identify whether it was the port of Colombo. 2. Features of mosques As a Buddhist country, most of Sri Lankan residents believe in Buddhism. Among the more than 2,000 mosques in the country, the red mosque can be said to be a very distinctive one. Different from the fresh and elegant white, blue and other light-colored mosques in other places, the red mosque adopts red and white, which has obvious Indian architectural color and influence.
Address:
228 2nd Cross Street, Colombo 01100, Sri Lanka
Recommended sightseeing time:
1 hour
Phone:
+94 112 451 975
Ticket Price
Free entry
A Day on the Streets of Colombo: Color, Chaos, and Conversations
Colombo hits you with its energy the moment you step out. The streets are alive—horns blaring, tuk-tuks weaving through gaps that don’t exist, and street vendors calling out in rapid Sinhala and Tamil. It’s chaos, but the kind that makes you feel part of something bigger.
The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, better known as the Red Mosque, rises like something out of a dream. Its candy-striped walls and intricate domes stand out against the tangle of streets, drawing in curious passersby. Locals nod as you pause to take it in, some stopping to chat, others just offering a quick smile before disappearing into the crowd.
Down the road, shopfronts spill onto the sidewalks—piles of ripe mangoes, stacks of colorful textiles, the sizzle of street food on open grills. A vendor hands over a freshly cut pineapple, dusted with chili and salt, grinning as he watches your reaction to the fiery kick.
Everyone’s in motion, yet somehow, there’s time for conversation. Tuk-tuk drivers lean against their rides, sharing jokes, old men sit on stools outside tiny shops, watching the world go by, and strangers strike up casual chats like they’ve known you forever.
It’s noisy. It’s messy. It’s full of life. And somehow, in the middle of it all, Colombo just makes you feel at home.
Mtng
3
[Sri Lanka] Colombo's oldest cute red and white mosque
📍 Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Sri Lanka
The Red Mosque is said to be the oldest mosque in Colombo
The traditional dome of a mosque is onion-shaped, but this mosque is pomegranate-shaped🕌
The red and white pattern is also inspired by pomegranates❤︎
Muslims pray five times a day and on Fridays, and the Red Mosque was built by Indian Muslim merchants at the request of a British architect living in India😌
It was built in the Indo-Saracenic style, which combines Indian Islamic architecture with European building standards🕌
The Indo-Saracenic style is an architectural style that was adopted by the British for public buildings in the Indian Empire, which was ruled by the British!! !
Free tours are held at the Red Mosque from time to time 🧕
Some mosques do not allow non-Muslims or women to visit, but the Red Mosque is open to non-Muslims and women!!
⚠️However, tours are not available during the five daily prayer times or on Fridays when Friday prayers are held!!
If you want to take a photo of the entire mosque, I think it's best to take it from the pedestrian road opposite. 📷
I stopped by early in the morning, so I couldn't go inside, but I'm happy to see the cute mosque. 💕
Add some excitement to your daily life: 🌙
Official name: Jami-U-Alfar-Masjid
📍Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque
📮 2nd Cross Street, Colombo 01100 Sri Lanka
🕚 10:30-12:00, 13:00-15:00, 16:15-18:00
👛 Free
#tripoverseastravel #SriLanka #SriLankatrip #SriLankatourism #overseastravel #girlstrip #photogenicspot
tomorip / 週末トラベラー
6
Jami Ullalfar Mosque
#SoutheastAsiaTravel
Visiting the Alfar Mosque in Sri Lanka was an amazing and cultural experience. When I arrived at the mosque, I immediately noticed its sparkling minarets and unique design. The Alfar Mosque is one of the important cultural landmarks in the capital city of Colombo. The mosque features red and white paint and multi-colored minarets, making it an eye-catcher in the city. I entered the mosque and was surrounded by beautiful decorations and wonderful artistic details. Visiting the Alfar Mosque was an opportunity to learn about the Islamic culture and history of Sri Lanka and enjoy the mosque’s unique architecture and captivating spiritual atmosphere.
Lily lain
5
[Colombo] Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
I went to Jami Ul-Alpha Mosque in Colombo!
This is located in the middle of a street in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and you will be amazed by the colorful colors that appear.
It looks like a toy castle and is very cute.
There are many shops lined up on the street, so it is fun just to walk around nearby.
Why not visit it when you are sightseeing in Colombo?
#0 yen trip February 2025
📍Location: 228 2nd Cross Street, Colombo 01100, Sri Lanka
tototomato
The beauty of pink temple
#celebrateit
The Jami Ur Alpha Mosque is located in the Peta district of Colombo's downtown area, where small shops, restaurants, and street stalls are lined up and the miscellaneous signs stand out. Built in 1908, it is an interesting building that combines colonial style and Islamic architecture, and the red and white stripes, which are rare in Islamic mosques, stand out from other buildings. Although Sri Lanka is a country with many Buddhists, there are also Muslims and Hindus. Being able to feel the coexistence of religions everywhere in the city is also one of the really interesting and charms.
Chipola
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Picturesque mosque in Sri Lanka
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is a historic landmark in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Its distinctive red and white candy-striped façade makes it a must-visit attraction. Visitors can explore the mosque's exterior and courtyard, immersing themselves in its rich cultural heritage.
Business Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with closures during prayer times and on Fridays at noon.
$ Average Price per Person: Free but donations are encouraged
#travel #srilanka #mustvisit #mosque
Journeyjassy
Sri Lanka's Pink Mosque
This is the Red Mosque located in Sri Lanka, considered one of the oldest mosques in Colombo's history. It is situated next to bustling main roads and shops, yet it exudes a mysterious and solemn aura. The most distinctive feature is the striking red lines on the building, resembling line art, yet maintaining its own orderly beauty. If you have the chance to visit Sri Lanka next time, consider visiting here to see a different architectural world. It is located in the bustling city center of the capital, making it very easy to recognize.
Mavislicoffee
✨ Discovering the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque in Colombo! ✨🕌
#magicalxmastrip #xmas2024
On my recent travels to Colombo, I had the pleasure of visiting the stunning Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, and it was a highlight of my trip! 🇱🇰❤️ This architectural gem features striking red and white stripes that make it a unique and beautiful sight in the heart of the city.
As I approached, I was mesmerized by the intricate details of the mosque’s design and the peaceful atmosphere surrounding it. The stunning minarets and elaborate mosaics create a vibrant backdrop for reflection and admiration. 🌟✨
The mosque is open for visitors daily, with prayer times typically starting at 5:30 AM and continuing throughout the day. It’s a great idea to check for specific visiting hours if you plan to explore, as they may vary during prayer times.
If you’re in Colombo, don’t miss the chance to visit Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque. It’s a beautiful blend of culture, history, and stunning architecture! Have you been? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
#JamiUlAlfarMosque #Colombo #CulturalHeritage #TravelDiaries #ExploreMore
Alineoptera
Jami Ullalfar Mosque
#SoutheastAsiaTravel
Alba Mosque is a landmark in the heart of Colombo thanks to its unique architectural design. The façade of the mosque features vibrant red and white decorative patterns, making it one of the most eye-catching mosques in the world. Visitors are impressed by the mosque’s unique architecture while exploring its courtyards and high domes. They also enjoy the spiritual atmosphere and tranquility of this sacred place. Alba Mosque is a truly unmissable experience while visiting Colombo.
사랑 여행 ❤️
1
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Colombo
#familytrips2024.**Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Colombo, Sri Lanka 🇱🇰**
Visiting the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is a captivating experience! 🕌 Located in the bustling Pettah district of Colombo, this iconic mosque is renowned for its striking red and white candy-striped architecture. Built in the early 20th century, it serves as a significant place of worship and a symbol of the city's rich multicultural heritage. The intricate design and vibrant colors make it a photographer’s delight 📸. Whether you're exploring Colombo's cultural landmarks or seeking a moment of tranquility, the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is a must-visit destination.
Quest Journey
Jami Ullalfar Mosque
#Overseas Travel
Visiting the Jami Al Far Mosque in Colombo was a special experience that blended fascinating history, culture, and Islamic architecture. Upon entering the mosque, I was struck by the beauty of the interior and exterior design of the building with its brightly colored minarets and high arches. I enjoyed the tranquility and serenity inside the mosque and spent time meditating. I also enjoyed chatting with the friendly local worshippers who shared information about the history of the mosque and the community. Visiting this mosque was a special and inspiring experience that left beautiful memories in my mind.
Nada Shawky
🇱🇰 Stunning Red Mosque in Pettah Market
Completed in 1909, Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Colombo. It is located on Second Cross Street in Pettah District, where you can find one of the the largest and busiest open-air markets in Sri Lanka. It is undeniable that the red mosque painted in distinctive red and white striped is the most beautiful landmark in the area.
The mosque can be easily reached by both bus and tuk-tuk. Visitors regardless of gender and religion can visit the mosque during certain timings. Remember to dress modestly. The mosque is surrounded by wthe always crowded Pettah Market. A walk through the busy streets filled with merchants selling all kinds of goods is quite an experience itself.
📍228 2nd Cross Street, Colombo 01100, Sri Lanka
#thingstodo #srilanka #colombo #mosque #redmosque #market #pettah #pettahmarket #tripblazers
mushroom055
1
Pluck 🌿 the pink mosque 🕌 in Colombo.
📍Detailed address: Near Pettah Market, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
🌈Highlight features:
✅The Red Mosque 🕌 was built in 1908 and is one of the landmark buildings in Colombo.
✅This is a red and white brick building that stands out in the bustling Beta district.
✅It is said that in the early 20th century, many sailors who came to Sri Lanka used it to identify whether they were at the port of Colombo.
✅A place that many people come to Colombo to check in, personally I think it is very worth visiting.
📌Small Tips:
✅When we went there, the mosque was having a prayer and only open to men. We couldn't go inside because it's a mosque🕌. Female tourists seem to have a special entrance, but they can't go inside the innermost area. So we just took some photos outside and left.
✅Encountered a travel photographer helping a handsome guy take photos.
💰Average spending per person: Admission: not required
🚗Transportation guide: Tuk-tuk or app-based taxi
⏳Playtime: about 1 hour
📝Attention tips: Beware of small ❤️ scammers!!!
It's amazing that we even encountered a wild tour guide. A very enthusiastic local saw that we didn't go in and ran over to greet us, pulling out a map and chatting away. The world isn't that kind, I don't believe there are such kind-hearted people.
Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque