Colombo Lighthouse

Colombo Galbokka Lighthouse (කොලඹ ගල්බොක්ක ප්‍රදීපාගාරය) The Colombo Galbokka Lighthouse, located at Galbokka Point south of Colombo Harbor along the Marine Drive in Colombo Fort, is operated and maintained by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. The name Galbokka or Gal Bokka—meaning “rocky bay”—was given by local fishermen, while the British referred to it as “Galle Buck.” Historically, the site held great cultural significance. A tombstone with an Arabic inscription, dating back to 948 AD, once stood at Galle Buck. This stone marked the grave of an Arabian saint revered by Colombo’s Moors. By 1879, the tombstone was reported to have been repurposed as a doorstep in Pettah, making it the oldest known Islamic inscription on the island (Digby, 1879; Johnston, 1826). The inscription, a prayer for the saint’s soul, reads: In the name of the Compassionate and Merciful God. There is no god but God. Muhammad is the prophet of God. May the Blessing and Peace of God be upon him. O God pardon, have mercy upon the and pass away from (the sins of) thy servant, the son of thy servant, Khalid Ibn Abu Bakaya (takaya or Nakaya) (who) has left the world and (who) was dependent on Thee; but Thou wast sufficient without him (who) has departed to Thee, and Thou art his best place of departure. O God, pardon his sin, and his piety may remain and grant him his last (reward) and that he may be justified. And Protect Thou and multiply favor and security to him. And may He (God) appoint our excellent prophet supreme that he may afford to us and show us the truth clearly; for he has admonished with the established word and his decision has obtained, and his resistance is (as) the depth (lake) of reproach. Amen! Lord of the Worlds! It was written on the second day (of the week) five nights taken out of (the month) Rajab (5th of Rajab) in the year 337 (Hijra). And in the vicinity he completed a security for religion with (other) conveniences in the year 317 (Hijra). May God Give Blessings and Peace upon his Prophet Muhammad. (Lee, 1826) Unfortunately, the original rock was destroyed in the late 19th century. An 1886 report notes that 26,368 tons of granite and 66,726 cubic yards of earth were removed to level the site (Forrest, 1886). The lighthouse itself was constructed in 1952 following the deactivation of the Old Clock Tower Colombo Lighthouse, whose light had been obscured by nearby buildings. Standing 15 meters tall (Sailing Directions for India and the Bay of Bengal, 1989), the tower is painted with a distinctive black-and-white checkered pattern on the seaward side.

Amazing piece from the past of the colombo, looking over the city itself now. Highly recommended to visit this historic landmark in the evening because it is so calming. Specially during the sunset. This lighthouse is not that tall for a lighthouse. This is more like a space here with unique sri lankan statues and architectural elements thrown around here. Wouldn’t recommend to go to this place middle of the day because there is nothing else to see around and the stones of this place will be scorching hot and won’t be walkable.

Cool lighthouse, I recommend to climb a bit on top so you have a good view of the harbor.

A fascinating historical landmark and a must-see for tourists. Built in 1950, this light hous is incredibly accessible with ample parking and 24/7 entry. Best of all, no tickets or prior permissions are required. Just show up and explore!

A historic landmark with a great view of the ocean and the Colombo Port. 🌊⚓✨ Although the area around it is restricted, you can still enjoy the sights from nearby. 👀 A nice stop for anyone exploring the Colombo Fort area. 🏙️😊 Beautiful spot for quick photos and to feel the sea breeze. 📸🌬️

The light house built by 1950 as a historical land mark. This is located in Chaithya road and anyone can visit here without reservations and buying tickets. Good to spend the evening here. Nice sea view can be got from here. This light house is still in operation. There is no dedicated vehicle park here but vehicles can be parked in the road side.

Built after independence, Gall buck lighthouse showcases a blend of post independent and traditional architecture.The lighthouse once offered quite magnificent views of the Indian ocean from its considerably higher base which was obscured due to recent land reclamations of the port city.The base once used to perform 21 gun salute on the independence day but not anymore . Yet it offers quite a decent experience to visitors even now.

It might have been a great place to visit in the past because of its historical significance and the view that it had on the Indian Ocean, but the Colombo Port Old Lighthouse has lost most of its appeal when the failed development of Port City blocked the view. It's worth a quick visit if you happen to be in the neighborhood, but I wouldn't recommend a special trip just to see it.