Colombo in 1 Day for Friends - Jami Ul-Alfar (Red Mosque) – Pettah
In Collaboration with Private Tuk Tuk Tour – Discover Colombo Like a Local. Updated on February 23, 2026.
Discover Colombo’s vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and hidden streets on a comfortable private tuk-tuk tour, guided by a friendly local driver with insider knowledge. Hotel pickup and drop-off within Colombo city limits included.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Private Tuk Tuk Tour – Discover Colombo Like a Local, inspired by the tour Colombo Tuk Tuk City Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Jami Ul-Alfar (Red Mosque) – Pettah
- Lotus Tower (drive-by / photo stop)
- Galle Face Green and promenade
- Pettah Market & Sea Street Hindu temple
- Independence Memorial Hall and Viharamahadevi Park
Itinerary
Day 1
Private 4-hour tuk-tuk circuit of central Colombo. The drive includes short photo stops and brief visits to markets, religious sites, parks and heritage buildings. Comfortable pacing for small groups of friends; the driver will provide local commentary and stop for photos.
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Colombo Red Mosque)
Colombo Red Mosque, also known as Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid, is an architectural wonder that will stun you with its unusual color patterns and unique design. Located in Pettah, it was built in 1908 by the Indian Muslim community to serve as a place for daily prayers. Designed by Habibu Labbe Saibu Labbe in Indo-Saracenic and Neo-classical styles, it was completed in just one year. In 1975, the mosque’s capacity was expanded to accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly and be prepared to remove shoes if you enter the mosque compound; carry a light scarf if needed.
- This stop is popular for photos; come early in the tour when lighting is good and crowds are smaller.
- Keep small change handy for small purchases nearby and avoid blocking entrances while photographing.
Lotus Tower (photo stop)
The Colombo Lotus Tower is South Asia’s tallest self-supported structure and Sri Lanka’s tallest skyscraper. Construction began in 2012, and it was officially opened to the public on 15th September 2022. This iconic landmark symbolizes Colombo’s rapid growth in technology and tourism.
Tips from local experts:
- This tour includes a drive-by/photo stop; entrance to the observation deck is not included and requires separate tickets.
- Ask the driver for the best side of the road for photos depending on the sun during your chosen start time.
- Traffic near the tower can be congested—expect a short wait if other vehicles stop for pictures.
Local Ceylon tea & spices shop (Deans Road area)
A popular store offering a wide range of authentic Sri Lankan teas, perfect for travelers who want to take home a taste of Ceylon.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a small carry bag for loose tea packets; shops often have pre-packed souvenir tins.
- Ask for a quick sample or tasting—most vendors will offer one to help you choose.
- Check expiry dates on packaged spices and request vacuum-sealed packaging for longer storage.
Galle Face Green (ocean-side urban park)
A 5-hectare ocean-side urban park stretching 500 meters along the coast. Originally laid out in 1859 for horse racing, it later became a space for sports like golf, cricket, polo, and rugby. Today, it’s a beloved public promenade.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring sunscreen and a hat—the promenade is exposed with limited shade.
- If you want a short snack from local vendors, small street-food options are available along the green.
- Watch for strong coastal winds; secure hats and light belongings before taking photos.
Viharamahadevi Park (Victoria Park)
The oldest and largest park in Colombo, located next to the National Museum. Named after Queen Viharamahadevi, it was formerly known as Victoria Park. The site was once occupied by the British Army during WWII and reopened to the public in 1951.
Tips from local experts:
- There are shaded benches—use them for a short rest if needed between stops.
- Keep an eye on personal items as parks can be busy; use the tuk-tuk for stowing valuables between stops.
- If you want quieter photos, ask the driver to stop at the quieter edges of the park away from the museum.
Old Parliament / Presidential Secretariat (Fort area)
A colonial-era Neo-Baroque building that served as Sri Lanka’s Parliament until 1983. It now houses the Presidential Secretariat.
Tips from local experts:
- This is an exterior photo stop; direct public access to interiors is restricted—plan photos from the public pavement.
- Be mindful of security personnel and avoid photographing controlled-entry points.
- If you are interested in more detailed heritage commentary, ask the driver for a brief historical summary.
Beira Lake pavilions & markets (Bastian Mawatha)
A series of pavilions on Beira Lake featuring around 90 stalls selling fruits, vegetables, flowers, and handicrafts. Restaurants and cafes along the walkways create a relaxing atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- This area has narrow walkways; keep backpacks closed and avoid obstructing foot traffic when stopping for photos.
- If you plan to buy perishable items, carry them in a separate bag and consume or refrigerate soon after purchase.
- There are cafes along the lake—if you want a short seated break, mention this to the driver to allow a quick stop.
Gangaramaya Temple (serene lakeside temple)
A serene Buddhist temple on Beira Lake, primarily used for meditation. Part of the Gangaramaya Temple complex, it was originally built in the late 19th century.
Tips from local experts:
- Entrance to the Gangaramaya complex may require a small admission fee; bring a small amount of local currency.
- Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and remove shoes before entering shrine areas.
- Photography inside some shrine rooms may be restricted—follow posted signs and staff guidance.
Pettah Market (bustling market streets)
Bustling market streets filled with vendors selling goods of all types at varying prices. The lively, crowded atmosphere is a true local experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Pettah is busy and narrow—travel light, keep valuables secure and use a money belt or front-facing bag.
- Haggle politely on price for non-fixed-price items and carry small denominations for purchases.
- Wear comfortable shoes; expect uneven pavements and occasional street debris in market alleys.
Sri Kailawasanathar Devasthanam (Sea Street Hindu temple)
One of the oldest Hindu temples in Colombo, dedicated to Shiva and Ganesh, with colorful Dravidian-style carvings.
Tips from local experts:
- Remove shoes before entering inner temple areas and dress modestly; sarongs or long skirts are appreciated.
- Be respectful of worshippers and avoid flash photography in active prayer spaces.
- If unsure about customs, follow the lead of locals or ask the driver for brief guidance before entry.
Old Lighthouse (Colombo Fort)
A functioning lighthouse from 1952, symbolizing Colombo’s maritime heritage. Public access is limited.
Tips from local experts:
- This is primarily an exterior/drive-by photo stop; public access inside the lighthouse is generally limited.
- Ask the driver for the best angle for photos from the Fort promenade to capture the lighthouse with sea views.
- Be aware of traffic when crossing roads for photos; use pedestrian crossings where available.
Dutch Reformed Church (Wolfendhal Street)
A Dutch colonial-era Protestant church, one of the oldest still in use in Sri Lanka.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a short exterior stop; if the church is open, keep voices low and avoid flash photography inside.
- Check shoes/footwear rules before entering; some older churches request removing hats inside.
- The surrounding Wolfendhal Street area has narrow sidewalks—watch your step when stopping for photos.
Independence Memorial Hall
Built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from Britain, modeled after the Magul Maduwa (Royal Audience Hall) in Kandy. The location marks where the first Parliament was opened in 1948.
Tips from local experts:
- The memorial grounds are good for short walks and photos; stick to paved walkways and designated public areas.
- There are shaded areas and benches—good for a brief rest before the final shopping stops.
- If you want additional heritage context, ask the driver to point out nearby government buildings and streets named for historic events.
State-owned gift & souvenir store (Laksala area)
Sri Lanka’s only state-owned gift and souvenir store, offering a wide range of crafts, batiks, teas, spices, gems, and jewelry.
Tips from local experts:
- Look for official state-labeled handicrafts for guaranteed origin; ask for packaging suitable for international travel.
- If shipping souvenirs home, ask staff about their packing or local courier recommendations.
- Carry a list of items you want to compare—batiks, small carvings, and tea tins are popular and easy to carry.
Traditional gem & jewelry shop (Galle Road area)
A reputed jewelry manufacturer specializing in platinum, gold, and silver pieces set with Sri Lankan gemstones. Over three decades of expertise in gemstone cutting and fine jewelry craftsmanship.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to inspect gemstones, ask staff to show certification documents for higher-value pieces.
- Handle items with care and request secure packaging for transport; keep receipts and certificates separate from the goods.
- Allow a short window at the end of the tour for any additional purchases or re-checking items before drop-off.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 15 |
| Total Places | 15 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Shopping, Outdoor, Culture, Neighborhood |
