Exploring Colombo's History and Culture

ITC Ratnadipa Hotel

Recently I was travelled to Sri Lanka as Guest Media invited to participate in the Southern MICE Expo 2024. The first activity for the 160 invited  people from 16 countries was to enjoy a morning city tour of Colombo. Unfortunately, as I had arrived several days previously, I was not able to participate in this bus tour.

However, I enjoyed my own self-guided own tours of central Colombo over 2 days and two nights by foot and tuk-tuk. I enjoyed my walks each day along the city streets and footpaths, being amazed at the mix of history and striking modern new buildings. On the ocean edge of the city there was a delightful mix of old government buildings and hotels (such as the Galle Face Hotel), and the impressive new hotels (such as the ITC Ratnadipa Hotel) and shopping malls.

Pettah Markets

On both days I enjoyed walking around the Pettah neighborhood of Colombo. I explored its famous Pettah Market, a series of open-air bazaars and markets. There was a huge number of wholesale and retail shops, buildings, commercial institutions and other organisations located there. I was restricted to what I could buy to take back home, as I had only my small carry on bag to carry on the plane and no checked in bag. I looked at, but did not purchase any of the well priced clothes (traditional Sri Lankan and western style), shoes, bags, handicrafts, and electronic gear. I knew they would weigh my bag, but not me. So my purchases were restricted to what I could put in my mouth. So I enjoyed eating local food, drinks, and yes, icecream. 

St. Philip Neri's Church

The main market segment is designed like a gigantic crossword puzzle. One can traverse through the entire market from dawn till dusk. Pettah is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic area, and I enjoyed visiting some of its many landmarks, including some very small and some large Churches, Temples and Mosques. I was able to join in a Sunday morning worship service at the St. Philip Neri's Church, near the historic Fort Railway Station. I went on a 2 hour tuk tuk tuk tour and was shown many interesting buildings. It was a bit rushed, so I did not learn much about the places I was taken to.

Red Temple

During my first full day in Colombo I was fortunate to visit the The Red Temple, also known as the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque. It is one of the oldest mosques in Colombo and is a historic and iconic landmark in the heart of this thriving city. This stunning mosque, famous for its red bricks and ornate architecture, has been a central place of worship for the Muslim community in Colombo for over a century and is renowned for its striking architecture and rich history. 

Red Temple

Built in 1909, the Red Temple was designed by architect H.L. Saibo Lebbe, who drew inspiration from Islamic and Gothic styles.  The Red Temple has played a significant role in the religious and cultural life of Colombo's Muslim community. It has served as a place of worship, education, and community gatherings for generations.

The Red Temple features a unique and striking design based on the pomegranate motif, which is a prominent element of its architecture. The pomegranate design is: 

• Depicted in intricate brickwork and ornate carvings 
• Used to adorn the mosque's walls, arches, and ceilings 
• Symbolic of fertility, prosperity, and spiritual growth in Islamic tradition 
• Believed to represent the fruit of paradise 
• A testament to the mosque's rich cultural and artistic heritage 

Red Temple

The pomegranate design, combined with the mosque's red bricks and Gothic arches, creates a striking visual effect, making the Red Temple a standout architectural landmark in Colombo. The design has also inspired local artisans and craftsmen, influencing the development of Sri Lankan art and architecture.

The mosque's impressive architecture and serene atmosphere make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a peaceful respite from the city's hustle and bustle. 

Red Temple

I enjoyed being in a small group of people taken on a tour of the inside of the temple. It was a simple matter of removing shoes and wearing a cloak over my clothes. It was interesting hearring about its history and uses today. After a look around the ground floor, we walked up the many stairs to the roof level to see the views over colombo. (No, I didn't count the eteps). The Temple was expanded in recent years so that 10,000 worshipers could gather together rather than the 1,000 that could be fitted in before. 

The Red Temple in Colombo is a remarkable landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage and religious diversity of Sri Lanka. Its stunning architecture, historical significance, and community outreach make it a treasured asset to the city of Colombo and a symbol of the country's commitment to religious harmony and cultural exchange.

Vesak Lanterns

On my first night in Colombo I walked to the Galle Face Green, which is a popular ocean-side urban park. I enjoyed the stunning sunset and scenic views of the ocean. Usually a relaxing stroll, tonight I was in the company of thousands of people celebrating the Vesak Festival. The Vesak Festival in Sri Lanka is a Buddhist festival that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Siddhartha Gautama, also known as Gautama Buddha. Many local street food and vendors were selling delicacies, and the usual activities of kite flying and cricket were replaced with amusement rides and groups of people gathering. 

Vesak Lights

The Vesak Festival activities included Sil observance, decorating with elaborate lanterns, flower processions, street dramas, devotional songs, and free food. Features of the Galle Face Vesak Festival included the Buddha Rashmi Vesak Zone, illumination of the festival, lantern competitions, puppetry, and Dan Sal. I found the evening to be a beautiful way to experience the community coming together and sharing in the spirit of kindness and generosity. At one of the displayed I enjoyed my chat with one of the many monks in attendance. 

On my second night in Colombo I walked around the Beira Lake which has a rich history and cultural significance. It was built by the Portuguese in 1596 and later renovated by the British.

Gangaramaya Temple

Usually the lake has a very serene and tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by quiet walking paths, and featuring a Seema Malakaya (a floating temple). However, the Vesak Festival brought thousands of well mannered people tonight to see all the Vesak Festival ornate decorations of colourful lanterns and vibrant digital light designs, taste the food, and listen to the music.

My walk around Beira Lake brought me to Gangaramaya Temple, which is an impressive Buddhist temple that showcases a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence. 

Gangaramaya Temple

The temple's architecture features an eclectic mix of styles, including Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese. I was able to walk through several of the temple complex buildings, such as the main shrine, pagoda, Bodhi tree shrine, assembly hall, and large museum. There is also a library, vocational training centers, and residential quarters. I understand the temple is involved in community development projects, including a vocational school, orphanage, and senior citizens' home.

Gangaramaya Temple

It was good to walk around the Gangaramaya Temple museum which is home to a wide range of artifacts, including Buddha statues from around the world, Statues of Hindu gods, Ancient coins and watches, Antique collectibles and the smallest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. Even old motor vehicles. The museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and art.

My two day and two night Colombo City tour ended when I joined the Southern MICE Expo 2024 group for the first time at The Hilton Hotel for a delicious buffet lunch. It was a pity to miss out on the city tour they went on and get to know them at the start of our exciting tourism event. However, I was happy with the many things I saw and experiences I had while discovering some of the gems of Colombo's history and culture by myself.