Ratnapura

Ratnapura, aptly named the “City of Gems” in Sinhala, is the heart of Sri Lanka’s gem industry and a gateway to some stunning natural and cultural sites.

Here is a guide to the key attractions and the best time to visit:

1. The Gem Industry Attractions

The primary reason to visit Ratnapura is to delve into the fascinating world of precious stones. The region is famous for producing some of the world’s finest sapphires (including the highly-prized cornflower blue variety), rubies, cat’s eyes, and alexandrites.

• Gem Mines: You can visit active gem mines in and around Ratnapura to witness the traditional, labor-intensive process of gem extraction, from digging and washing gravel to sorting the stones. Some mines offer guided tours and the chance to buy gems directly.
• Gem Museum (Gemological Museum): This is the best place to learn about the history, geology, and cutting/polishing process of Sri Lankan gemstones. It features exhibits of rare and exquisite gems, providing context to the entire industry. The Ratnapura National Museum also features exhibits related to the gem industry.
• Ratnapura Gem Market: This bustling, vibrant marketplace is where miners, traders, and buyers congregate. It’s a lively spot to witness the gem trade in action and is open daily.

2. Natural and Adventure Attractions

Ratnapura’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the wet-zone rainforests and mountain peaks of Sri Lanka.

• Sinharaja Forest Reserve: A nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved tropical rainforests in the country. It is a biodiverse paradise, perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and observing endemic flora and fauna.
• Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak): Ratnapura is at the foot of this sacred mountain, which is revered by multiple religions. The Gilimale route is one of the starting points from Ratnapura. The pilgrimage season runs from the full moon in December to the full moon in April, during which time the climb is most popular.
• Waterfalls: The surrounding area is rich with beautiful waterfalls:
  • Bopath Ella Waterfall: Known for its unique shape, which resembles a sacred Bo leaf.
  • Kirindi Ella Waterfall: One of the country’s tallest and most scenic waterfalls, cascading from a height of about 116 meters.
  • Kalthota Duwili Ella Falls: Also known as the ‘Veil of the Bride’.
  • Katugas Ella Falls: A beautiful, lesser-known waterfall.
• Udawalawe National Park: While a bit further afield, it is a popular day trip for a wildlife safari, famous for its large herds of elephants, water buffalo, and diverse birdlife.

3. Cultural and Historical Sites

The region offers several significant cultural and historical landmarks.

• Maha Saman Devalaya: Arguably Ratnapura’s most important cultural and religious site. This ancient temple is dedicated to the deity Saman, believed to be the guardian of the region and Adam’s Peak. The annual Esala Perahera festival held here is a spectacular cultural event.
• Ratnapura National Museum (at Ehelapola Walawwa): Housed in a historic mansion, the museum displays cultural, archaeological, and natural heritage exhibits, including local history and artifacts related to the gem industry.

Best Time to Visit Ratnapura

Ratnapura has a tropical climate and receives rainfall throughout the year, but there is a distinct drier season.