Historical background
A 19th-century mosque built around the tomb of the Sufi saint Sheikh Usman Siddique Vali Ullah, a major figure in Sri Lankan Sufism.
Religious significance
An important Sufi shrine — visited by Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists alike seeking blessings.
Architecture
Green-and-white mosque built in the late 19th century around the tomb (dargah) of Sheikh Usman Siddique Vali Ullah. Central shrine chamber with hand-painted floral panels and a jasmine-scented inner courtyard.
Historical timeline
- 1820Death of Sheikh Usman Siddique Vali Ullah and burial at the site.
- Late 19th centuryMosque built around the dargah.
- AnnuallyUrs festival held with qawwali and community feasts.
Cultural importance
Annual urs (death anniversary of the saint) draws inter-faith pilgrims for qawwali, food distribution and continuous dhikr.
Visitor experience
Quiet inner courtyard; particularly atmospheric during the annual urs (death anniversary) celebrations.
Things to do
- ✦Visit the Sufi tomb
- ✦Walk to nearby Viharamahadevi Park
- ✦Combine with the National Museum
Visitor information
Opening hours
5:00 – 21:00 daily except during Friday jumu'ah prayers.
Dress code
Modest covered clothing; head covering for women.
Photography
Permitted in the outer courtyard; ask before photographing the dargah.
Best time to visit
Late afternoon; annual urs for the atmosphere.
Interesting facts
- ✦One of Colombo's oldest Islamic religious centres.
- ✦Houses the tomb of Hazrat Shaikh Usman Waliyullah (Habib Nundeen Auliya), one of Sri Lanka's most revered Sufi saints.
- ✦Combines a traditional mosque with a historic Sufi shrine.
- ✦Attracts pilgrims from across Sri Lanka regardless of ethnic background.
- ✦Annual Urs commemorations celebrate the life and teachings of the saint.
- ✦Widely respected for its role in promoting Islamic education, charity, and interfaith harmony.
