Kechimalai Mosque: Where History, Faith, and the Ocean Meet at Beruwala Point

 Perched 30 meters high on a rocky headland, overlooking the bustling Beruwala fishing harbor, stands one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque and spiritually significant landmarks. While Bentota is famous for its golden beaches and luxury resorts, just a short drive south lies a destination that offers a different kind of richness—a journey into the island’s ancient past. The Kechimalai Mosque, also known as Ketchchimalai Dharga, isn't just a place of worship; it is a monument to the very arrival of Islam in Sri Lanka and arguably the most scenic historical site on the southwest coast .

The Draw: A Legacy Written on the Waves

To understand Kechimalai, you have to look out at the Indian Ocean. According to local folklore and historical belief, this precise point on the Beruwala peninsula was the landing site of the first Arab traders in the 8th century . It is believed that a vessel carrying seven members of the royal family of Hadhramaut, Yemen, including Sultan Ashraff Waliullah, came ashore here, marking the dawn of Muslim settlement on the island .

The mosque you see today, however, isn't quite that old. The current building was constructed in 1911 by a wealthy Muslim businessman, built around the revered tomb of Sultan Ashraff Waliullah . What makes it architecturally fascinating is its unique blend of styles. At first glance, it is a squarish white building, but look closer, and you’ll notice ornate arched exteriors and curving Dutch-style gables—a colonial fingerprint—crowned with an unusual domed minaret adorned with a crescent-and-star ornament . This fusion of Arabic and Dutch influences makes it a standout structure against the tropical sky.

The Vibe: A Sensory Dawn

While the history draws you in, the atmosphere keeps you there. The mosque sits on what was historically known as "Utchchamalai" (Tamil for "high hill"), and the elevation provides a breathtaking vantage point .

For the best experience, visit at dawn. As the first light creeps over the horizon, you can witness the entire Beruwala fishing fleet—the largest on the west coast—setting out to sea. The harbor below comes alive with the hum of engines and the cries of fishermen. Simultaneously, the loudspeakers from the mosque begin the melodic call to prayer (Adhan). It is a powerful, sensory experience where faith and livelihood converge. The sight of hundreds of colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water against the backdrop of the white mosque is a photographer’s dream .

A Living History

Walking through the mosque grounds, you feel a palpable sense of peace. Within the complex, you can find the graves of two imams (father and son) and a madrasa . Inside the main hall, a very old chandelier dominates, and antique cupboards hold copies of the Holy Quran, some said to be as old as 500 years .

There is also a fascinating historical footnote involving a British Governor, Sir Arthur Gordon. Legend has it that his horse once bolted uncontrollably, only to calm down upon reaching the Kechimalai hill. Moved by this incident, the Governor helped enhance the mosque and officially handed over the crown land to the mosque authorities .

Planning Your Visit

If you are staying in Bentota, the Kechimalai Mosque is an easy and rewarding addition to your itinerary. It is located just a few kilometers south, near the Beruwala fishing harbor .

Tips for a Respectful Visit:

• Dress Modestly: As an active place of worship, visitors are required to dress respectfully. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered . Women may wish to carry a shawl.
• Timing: Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views over the ocean . However, dawn is the most magical time to see the fishing boats depart. Avoid visiting during designated prayer times if you wish to simply look around quietly.
• Footwear: Remember to remove your shoes before entering the mosque premises .
• Photography: Photography is generally allowed, especially of the exterior and the stunning views, but always be discreet and avoid photographing people during prayer .

cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka. Whether you are a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone looking for a stunning view, the mosque at Beruwala Point offers a moment of quiet reflection that stays with you long after you leave.