Ketchchimalai Mosque, also known as Ketchimalai Dharga, is located on a headland overlooking the port of Beruwala, on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. It is one of the oldest mosques in the country.
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AI.
the mosque is built at the spot where the first Muslim Arab traders landed and subsequently settled in the area. It is believed that a vessel carrying seven members of the royal family of Hadhramaut, Yemen came ashore at this location. They included the Sultan Ashraff Waliullah, his five brothers and a sister. When Waliullah died in 1024 AD he was buried in a tomb on the hill. Allegedly one day, when the chief of the Masjid Al-Abrar in Beruwala was cleaning the tomb he stepped on a sharp thorn following which he rest under a tree and fell asleep. During his slumber, Waliullah appeared as a vision and sought that a mosque be built where his tomb was .
At that time the site was known as “Utchchamalai” in Tamil, which translates to “high hill”, over time this was modified to its current name of Ketchchimalai.
The current building was constructed in 1911 by a wealthy Muslim businessman. It is essentially a squarish white building, with an ornate arched exterior, curving dutch-style gables, with an unusual domed minaret crowned with a crescent-and-star ornament. Outside the mosque but within its grounds are the graves of two imams (father and son) and a madrasa.
The mosque is the focus for a major Eid al-Fitr festival held at the end of Ramadan, with large numbers of pilgrims attending.
On 12 June 2015 the mosque was declared a protected archaeological site by...
Read more
Kechimalai Mosque is a historical mosque located in Beruwala, a coastal town in Sri Lanka. It is also known as the Kechimalai Masjid or the Kechimalai Palli. The mosque is believed to have been built by Arab traders in the 8th century, making it one of the oldest mosques in the country.
According to local legends, the mosque was built on the spot where the first Muslim traders who came to Sri Lanka landed. The mosque has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries, with the current structure being built in the 18th century.
The Kechimalai Mosque is an important religious site for Muslims in Sri Lanka and attracts visitors from all over the world. The mosque has a unique architectural style, with a mixture of Arab, Indian, and local influences. The interior of the mosque is adorned with intricate carvings and decorations, while the exterior features a towering minaret and a large courtyard.
The mosque is also significant for its role in the history of Islam in Sri Lanka. It has served as a center of Islamic learning and culture for centuries and has played a key role in the spread of Islam throughout the island. Today, the Kechimalai Mosque is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and diversity...
Read more
The Kachimalai Mosque in Beruwala is a remarkable historical site that transports you back in time to the 12th century. The mosque is located in a breathtakingly beautiful setting, surrounded by water that provides an awe-inspiring view.
Visiting the mosque is a truly unique experience, as you can feel the history of the place come alive around you. The architecture of the mosque is stunning and reflects the intricate designs and craftsmanship of the time period it was built in.
As you explore the mosque, you will be struck by the sense of reverence and tranquility that permeates the air. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, and it is easy to lose yourself in the beauty and majesty of the site.
Overall, the Kachimalai Mosque in Beruwala is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and culture. It is a place where you can truly appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and the incredible architectural achievements...
Read more
