Overview
Pettah is a vast traditional market district near Colombo Fort, where each street specializes in a different product: 1st Cross Street for gems and watches, 2nd for textiles, 3rd for spices and herbs, 4th for cameras and electronics. The narrow alleys swirl with Indian, Muslim, Tamil, and Sinhalese cultures, evoking scenes from a Bollywood film. Be sure to visit the nearby red-and-white striped Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque. Free admission. A 5-minute walk from Fort Station.
Opening Hours
08:00-19:00 (closed Sundays)
Travel Tips
Early morning is liveliest and coolest. Wear bags in front and watch for pickpockets.
Hotels near Pettah Market
Hotels and guesthouses in Colombo, Pettah, Colombo
Other attractions in Colombo
Gangaramaya Temple
A Buddhist temple beside Beira Lake, known for its impressive collection of Buddha statues.
Galle Face Green
A seaside promenade overlooking the Indian Ocean, famed for sunsets and street food.
Colombo National Museum
Colombo's largest museum, offering a sweeping overview of Sri Lankan history and culture.
Independence Memorial Hall
A Kandyan-style hall commemorating Sri Lanka's 1948 independence.
Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
A 1681 Dutch colonial hospital reborn as a boutique and restaurant precinct.
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque)
A striking red-and-white striped mosque in Indo-Saracenic style.
Viharamahadevi Park
Colombo's largest city park, featuring gardens and a giant golden Buddha.