Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque)

Overview

The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque — universally known as the Red Mosque — is Colombo's most photographed religious building. Its candy-striped red-and-white façade, built in an Indo-Saracenic style, has been a Pettah landmark since 1909.

Highlights

• Façade: The dazzling red-and-white patterned exterior with geometric motifs draws comparisons to mosques in Hyderabad and Cairo.
• Interior Dome: A spiraling interior dome painted in vivid colors.
• Pettah Location: Set in the heart of the bustling Pettah bazaar, offering a striking contrast with the commercial chaos outside.

History

Designed by Bawa Mohideen, the mosque was completed in 1909 to serve Colombo's Muslim merchant community. Its distinctive appearance once served as a navigational landmark for sailors entering Colombo harbour.

Visitor Tips

• Non-Muslim Visitors: Welcome outside prayer times; remove shoes and dress modestly.
• Photography: Best from the street for the full façade; interior photography may be restricted.
• Duration: 15–25 minutes.