Kotahena looks like just another Colombo neighbourhood until you start reading it properly. Join a fictional archaeological society mission to understand the water-damaged harbour register that restoration workers at an old Dutch church uncover. The records are not about cargo lists but about the faiths that the community has held onto.
For curious adults who want real history, this multi-faith, maritime corner of Colombo rewards close attention with stories that are rarely shared.
Places you will visit
10
It will take you
109-139 mins
You will walk
4470 steps
Total distance
3.4 km
A note from Ahila Thillainathan
“I began discovering Colombo's stories during walks with my mother in her last years. I discovered hidden gems in plain sight, in our own neighbourhood. I've been exploring and uncovering them across different neighbourhoods of this fascinating city ever since. Welcome to Colombo Untold.”
What you'll actually do
Download the Questo app and unlock the quest. Walk to Christian Reformed Church of Sri Lanka whenever you like · no guide, no group, no time slot.
Solve 10 puzzles hidden in the streets around you. Each one you crack unlocks the next location.
Finish at Dipaduththarama Thai Raja Maha Vihara - Kotahena and see where you land on the Colombo leaderboard.
Highlights
Trace Kotahena's hidden layers: a 1749 Dutch church foundation stone, a swami's turban, carved Hindu temples, a Catholic shrine locals swear by, cathedral plaques, Colombo's oldest Buddhist temple.As this walk takes you to multiple religious sites, should you wish to pause the game and go in, please be attired accordingly.
The mission: Your story in Colombo
Ten entries are unfinished. Uncover the stories at each stop and complete register. The neighbourhood becomes yours to understand.
Please make sure that you are appropriately attired if you wish to pause the game and visit the temples or churches included in the stops.
ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE
What to expect from The Anchorage Register: Kotahena
Kotahena looks like just another Colombo neighbourhood until you start reading it properly. Join a fictional archaeological society mission to understand the water-damaged harbour register that restoration workers at an old Dutch church uncover. The records are not about cargo lists but about the faiths that the community has held onto. For curious adults who want real history, this multi-faith, maritime corner of Colombo rewards close attention with stories that are rarely shared.
Trace Kotahena's hidden layers: a 1749 Dutch church foundation stone, a swami's turban, carved Hindu temples, a Catholic shrine locals swear by, cathedral plaques, Colombo's oldest Buddhist temple.As this walk takes you to multiple religious sites, should you wish to pause the game and go in, please be attired accordingly.
Start: Christian Reformed Church of Sri Lanka. Finish: Dipaduththarama Thai Raja Maha Vihara - Kotahena. 10 challenges included.
Good to know before you play
- Step Into the Story
- Hidden History
- Difficulty level: Medium 🟡🤔
- Audio Stories
- Dress to impress: Remember to dress respectfully when visiting temples for a seamless experience
- Ensure your phone is fully charged or bring along your trusty power bank
Tips & Recommendations
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will be walking throughout the city, so comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the experience.
Charge Your Phone
Make sure your smartphone is at least 60% charged. The quest runs through the Questo app, and you will be using it throughout.
Check the Weather
This is an outdoor activity. Bring an umbrella or sunscreen depending on the forecast.
Bring a Camera
You will discover photogenic locations and hidden gems perfect for capturing memories.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months or longer quests.
Play with Friends
Quests are more fun with friends or family. Each player who wants to play on their own phone needs their own access.
Ratings and Reviews
12 ratings
Dayan Georgesz
Preethika Sakalasooriya
Renoza Rajabdeen
Sanji
Nirmala
Beat the best: Top Colombo explorers
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