Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque) | Colombo

Information

Landmark: Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)
City: Colombo
Country: Sri Lanka
Continent: Asia

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque), Colombo, Sri Lanka, Asia

The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is a historic mosque located in the Pettah district of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

It is characterized by its distinctive red and white striped facade and its unique Indo-Saracenic architectural style.

Visual Characteristics

The mosque is constructed primarily from red brick and white limestone, creating a bold, alternating striped pattern across its exterior. It features multiple domes and minarets, with the central dome being the most prominent. The architectural style blends elements of Indo-Saracenic, Neoclassical, and Gothic architecture. The main prayer hall is accessible via a large central entrance.

Location & Access Logistics

The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is situated at 212, Second Cross Street, Pettah, Colombo 11. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers east of the Colombo Fort railway station. Access is via public roads within the busy Pettah market area. Limited street parking is available, and visitors are advised to use public transport or taxis to reach the vicinity due to traffic congestion. Several bus routes serve the Pettah area, including routes originating from Colombo Fort.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque began in 1908 and was completed in 1910. It was designed by the architect H.M. Jiffry. The mosque was built to serve the growing Muslim population in the Pettah district and to provide a central place of worship.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the mosque's exterior architecture and interior prayer hall. Non-Muslims are permitted to enter the mosque outside of prayer times, provided they adhere to dress codes (shoulders and knees covered, headscarf for women). Photography is generally allowed, but visitors should be respectful of worshippers. Guided tours are not regularly scheduled but can sometimes be arranged.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the mosque complex. Limited shaded areas are present around the mosque. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good in this urban area. Food vendors are abundant in the surrounding Pettah market, offering various local food options.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day to visit for photography is in the late afternoon when the sunlight illuminates the red and white stripes. The best months for weather are typically from December to March, avoiding the monsoon seasons. There are no tide-specific requirements for visiting.

Facts & Legends

A notable detail is that the mosque's distinctive red and white stripes were originally achieved using red brick and white limestone. Over time, the mosque has been repainted, but the original striped pattern remains its defining characteristic. It is one of the oldest mosques in Colombo.