From ancient times, Ratnapura has been known as the city of gems. The name comes from Sinhala, where 'ratna' means gems and 'pura' means city — there is no other reason to call this city 'the city of gems' than the fact that most of Sri Lanka's world-renowned precious stones, such as blue sapphires and rubies, are found in the Ratnapura area. Located about 100km south-east of Colombo and above 21m from sea level, Ratnapura is the capital of the Ratnapura District, one of the two districts of Sabaragamuwa Province. Gem mining has been the long-established major industry in the region, and today most of its people depend on this glittering industry — Sri Lanka's major gem traders operate from Ratnapura, where a large number of local and foreign gem traders gather to sell and buy precious stones.
Discover the historic landmarks, cultural attractions and hidden gems that make Ratnapura special.
Nivitigala, Eheliyagoda, Kahawatte, Opanayaka, Rakwana, Pelmadulla and Kuruvita are the suburban gem mining and trading townships of Ratnapura. All these areas have produced some of the world's most precious and rarest gemstones, making Sri Lanka 'ratna dveepa' — the island of gems — renowned world over.
The Blue Giant of the Orient (466 cts), the Logan Blue Sapphire (423 cts), the Blue Belle of Asia (400 cts), the Rosser Reeves Star Ruby (138.7 cts), the Star of Lanka (393 cts) and the Ray of Treasure (105 cts Cat's Eye) are some of the planet's priceless gemstones found in the Ratnapura area.
Agriculture is another major industry in the area, with tea and rubber plantations surrounding the town. Paddy cultivation can be seen too, while fruits and vegetables are also grown as market products.
Towards Sri Lanka's booming tourism, Ratnapura plays a significant role, accounting for a number of religious, natural and other attractions — among them the mountain Sri Pada (Adam's Peak), Pothgul Viharaya, Diva Guhava, Maha Saman Devale, Bopath Ella, Katugas Ella, Kirindi Ella, the Gem Museum, the National Museum (Ehelepola Walauva) and Pompakelle Forest Park, all popular with locals and foreigners alike.
Ratnapura is a transit base to the world-famous Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve, Udawalawe National Park and Kitulgala, with the route leading into the hill country being especially gorgeous. The surrounding area is a popular trekking destination and a good place for birdwatching and to view traditional gem mining and cutting operations first-hand.
