In the heart of Pettah, the decorative 1909 Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque is a show-stopper with its candy-striped red-and-white brickwork. Guards will usually let you in for a look, except during peak prayer times on Friday (women may be denied entrance at other times as well). Afterwards have a coffee at one of the Halal cafes across the way.
Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque
Colombo
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Nearby Colombo attractions
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If you can dodge the teeming mass of load-carrying labourers for a moment, it pays to look up as you explore Pettah. Case in point is this old potato…
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This unique museum was originally the 17th-century residence of the Dutch governor and has since been used as a Catholic seminary, a military hospital, a…
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In a modern multistorey building, this market lacks the vibrant charm of Pettah's other market offerings.
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5. Federation of Self Employees Market
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Dedicated to the war god Murugan (Skanda), this is the middle of three adjoining kovils (temples).