Travel Guide to Ratnapura
Explore Ratnapura, Sri Lanka's gem capital, where natural beauty, rich culture, and ancient traditions converge.
Ratnapura: The Gem City of Sri Lanka
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, Ratnapura is a city renowned for its rich history and natural beauty. Known as the Gem City, Ratnapura is famous for its precious stones, including sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The city’s name itself means 'City of Gems' in Sinhalese, a testament to its glittering heritage. The landscape around Ratnapura is lush and green, with rolling hills and dense forests. The city is a gateway to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with biodiversity. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that showcase the rich flora and fauna of the region, including many species that are unique to Sri Lanka. Ratnapura is also a cultural hub, with many temples and historical sites to explore. The Maha Saman Devalaya is one of the most significant, dedicated to the deity Saman, a guardian of the island. The town’s vibrant markets are perfect for those looking to buy gemstones and local crafts, offering a unique glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the local people.
Local tips in Ratnapura
- Visit the gem mines early in the morning to see miners at work and understand the gemstone extraction process.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven, especially if you plan to explore the forests and hills.
- Hire a local guide to get the most out of your visit to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve.
- Carry insect repellent and sunscreen, as the climate can be humid and there are many outdoor activities.
- Try the local cuisine, especially the fresh tropical fruits and traditional Sri Lankan dishes available in town.
Popular Attractions in Ratnapura
Ratnapura, known as the 'City of Gems', offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From exploring the lush greenery of Sinharaja Forest Reserve to witnessing the traditional gem mining techniques at the Gem Museum, there is something for every nature lover and history enthusiast. Don't miss the chance to visit the ancient temples and caves nestled in the hills, such as the iconic Maha Saman Devalaya and the mysterious Batadombalena Cave. With its rich history and stunning landscapes, Ratnapura is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
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Discover the enchanting beauty of Bopath Falls, a stunning natural wonder in Sri Lanka that promises tranquility and breathtaking scenery.
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Experience the serene beauty and spiritual tranquility of Sri Sumana Saman Devalaya, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Ratnapura.
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Explore the captivating history of Ratnapura at the National Museum, where gems and cultural treasures await every visitor.
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Experience the serene beauty of Dehena Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in Sri Lanka perfect for relaxation and exploration.
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Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Pothgul Vihara, a stunning Buddhist temple in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.
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Explore the breathtaking Mapalana Ella Falls in Sri Lanka, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes.
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Experience the serene beauty of Katugas Ella Waterfall, a breathtaking natural wonder in the heart of Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.
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Explore Minee Ella, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Ratnapura, offering stunning landscapes, lush nature, and unforgettable adventures.
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Experience the serene beauty of Rajanawa Waterfall, a hidden gem in Sri Lanka's lush landscape, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore Ratnapura, Sri Lanka's Gem City, where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage and unforgettable experiences.
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Discover the enchanting beauty of Hathbamba Ella Waterfall in Ratnapura, a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty of Thepulangoda Waterfall, a hidden gem in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant wildlife.
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Balibathgoda Thotupola in Ratnapura, a true gem for nature and adventure lovers.
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Experience the serene beauty of Hidellana Kanda View Point, a stunning hiking area in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, with breathtaking panoramic views.
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Experience the serene beauty of Hathbili Ella Falls in Ratnapura, a must-visit natural attraction for every nature lover exploring Sri Lanka.
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Explore the breathtaking Samanala Mountain View Point in Ratnapura, where stunning vistas and serene nature await every traveler.
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Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Aanda Ella Fall, a hidden gem in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and serenity of Delgamu Ella, Sri Lanka's hidden natural wonder, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Paradise Lake in Kuruwita, a serene escape for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
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Explore Ratmal Ella, a tranquil Sri Lankan paradise with stunning landscapes, adventure trails, and rich cultural experiences waiting to be discovered.
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene waterfalls of Dhushan Ella, a hidden gem in Palawela, Sri Lanka.
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Experience the charm and history of the Old Railway Pussalla Stone Bridge in Ratnapura, a breathtaking landmark of Sri Lanka's colonial past.
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Explore the enchanting beauty of කඩේ ඇල්ල, a hidden gem in Kuruwita, where nature's serenity meets stunning waterfalls.
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Explore the serene beauty and rich heritage of Dela Walawwa, an enchanting tourist attraction in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.
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Explore the stunning Heraniyawaka Bridge in Idangoda, where breathtaking views and natural beauty await.
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Explore the stunning Pandalawa Ella waterfall in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Explore Bo Tree in Ratnapura, a sacred Buddhist temple with historical significance and serene ambiance, perfect for cultural and spiritual immersion.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere of Demuwawatha Bridge, a must-visit gem in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Patal Wadiya, a serene tourist attraction in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.
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Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Hirigalketiya Waterfall, a serene retreat in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
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Discover the enchanting vistas of Dimiyawa View Point, where Sri Lanka's stunning landscapes unfold before your eyes.
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Experience tranquility and adventure at Diyagala Escape, a hidden gem in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, perfect for nature lovers and explorers alike.
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Malankanda Dola in Ratnapura, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation for every traveler.
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Sewwandi Garden in Ratnapura, a serene escape into nature's vibrant flora and peaceful surroundings.
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Experience the serene beauty and spiritual depth at Bo Tree - Hospital Ratnapura, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka.
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Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Suriyagala Falls, a stunning waterfall in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant wildlife.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Ratnapura
When is the best time to go to Ratnapura?
Local Phrases about Ratnapura
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- Helloආයුබෝවන්
[ayubowan] - Goodbyeආදරේ
[adare] - Yesඔව්
[ow] - Noනෑ
[nā] - Please/You're welcomeකරනවා/කියනවා
[karunavā/kiyanavā] - Thank youඔබේ ස්තූතියි
[obē sthūthiyi] - Excuse me/Sorryසමාජවන්/කිසිවකිනවා
[samājawan/kisiwakinavā] - How are you?ඔයාට කොහෙද?
[ōyāta koheda?] - Fine. And you?හොදයි. ඔයා?
[hōdayi. ōyā?] - Do you speak English?ඔයාගේයානාම කතාකරයිද?
[ōyāgēyanāma kathākarayida?] - I don't understandමම එකතු වෙන්නේනෑ
[mama ekathu wenna nā]
- Helloආයුබෝවන්
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseකරුණාකර මෙනු බලපත්රය බලාගන්න
[karunakara menu balapatraya balāganna] - I don't eat meatමම මස් කරියේ නෑ
[mama mas kariyē nā] - Cheers!සුභප්පාදනය!
[subappādanaya] - I would like to pay, pleaseකරුණාකර ගෙවන්නේද
[karunakara gewan nēda]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseකරුණාකර මෙනු බලපත්රය බලාගන්න
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- Help!උකුල්ලට!
[ukullata] - Go away!යන්න!
[yanna] - Call the Police!පොලිස්ටකරුගේයි!
[polistakarugēyi] - Call a doctor!වෛරයකරුගේයි!
[vārayakarugēyi] - I'm lostමම බැරිමෙන්න
[mama bārimenna] - I'm illමම අස්වල්ලයි
[mama asvallayi]
- Help!උකුල්ලට!
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- I'd like to buy...මම ... මිලියන්නෙන්න
[mama ... milin nennēnna] - I'm just lookingමම පොනවන්න
[mama pōnavanna] - How much is it?එය කොහොදයි?
[ēya kohodayi?] - That's too expensiveඑය වේගයි
[ēya vēgayi] - Can you lower the price?මිල අඩු කරයිද?
[mila adu karayida?]
- I'd like to buy...මම ... මිලියන්නෙන්න
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- What time is it?වේදනාගේකොහොදයි?
[vēdanāgēkohodayi?] - It's one o'clockඑක් ටයල්කය
[eka tayalkaya] - Half past (10)ප්රතමාවෙක් වැනිදා
[prathamavēk wānidayā] - Morningඋදේ
[udē] - Afternoonදැකුලු
[dēkulu] - Eveningසවස
[savasa] - Yesterdayඊයේ
[īyē] - Todayඅද
[ada] - Tomorrowහෙයින්
[heyin] - 1එක
[eka] - 2දෙක
[dēka] - 3තුන
[thuna] - 4හත
[hata] - 5පහ
[paha] - 6හය
[haya] - 7හත
[hata] - 8අට
[ata] - 9නය
[naya] - 10දස
[dasa]
- What time is it?වේදනාගේකොහොදයි?
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- Where's a/the...?... කොන්දකින්ද?
[... konadakindā?] - What's the address?ලිපිනය කුමක්ද?
[lipinaya kumakda?] - Can you show me (on the map)?මම පෙත්ගත්තන්ද?
[mama pētgattandā?] - When's the next (bus)?ඊළඟ ... කොන්දකින්ද?
[īlagaya konadakindā?] - A ticket (to ....)ගානවකින්ද
[gānavakindā]
- Where's a/the...?... කොන්දකින්ද?
History of Ratnapura
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Ratnapura, translating to 'City of Gems' in Sinhala, is believed to have been a significant settlement since ancient times, dating back to the era of the Sinhalese Kingdoms. The region’s name itself highlights its long-standing association with gem mining, a tradition that has contributed to its historical and cultural significance.
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Ratnapura's gem mining history goes back over 2,000 years. Ancient texts and folklore often mention the region’s rich gem deposits. The Mahavamsa, an ancient Sri Lankan chronicle, references gems from Ratnapura being used in the construction of stupas and to adorn royal treasures. The city was a key source of precious stones for ancient kings and traders.
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During the colonial period under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule, Ratnapura's gem industry saw significant transformations. The British, in particular, capitalized on the gem resources, establishing organized mining operations and exporting gems to Europe. This period marked the beginning of Ratnapura’s reputation as a global gem trade hub.
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Ratnapura’s rich natural resources attracted a diverse population over the centuries, resulting in a cultural melting pot. The city is home to a mix of Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher communities, each contributing to its vibrant culture. Festivals, religious ceremonies, and traditional practices from these various groups are an integral part of Ratnapura’s cultural fabric.
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Adam's Peak, or Sri Pada, is a significant pilgrimage site located near Ratnapura. Revered in multiple religions, the mountain attracts pilgrims from various faiths who come to see the 'sacred footprint' at its summit. This pilgrimage has been a cultural cornerstone for centuries, intertwining Ratnapura’s history with spiritual significance.
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Today, Ratnapura remains a bustling center for gem trade. The city balances its ancient traditions with modern advancements. Gem markets, museums, and educational institutions dedicated to gemology are prominent, reflecting its continuing legacy. Ratnapura’s economy and identity are still deeply intertwined with its gem-rich heritage.
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Ratnapura is surrounded by lush landscapes and is a gateway to several national parks and reserves. Archeological sites and natural wonders such as the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase the region’s biodiversity and historical depth. These sites attract researchers, historians, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Ratnapura Essentials
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Ratnapura is located approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. From Colombo, you can reach Ratnapura by bus, taxi, or train. Buses and taxis are available from the airport and the central bus station in Colombo. The journey by road takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Ratnapura, which offers a scenic route passing through lush landscapes.
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Ratnapura is well-served by a network of buses and tuk-tuks (three-wheeled taxis) that can take you around the city and to nearby attractions. Local buses are the most economical option but can be crowded. Tuk-tuks are convenient for short distances and offer a flexible way to explore the area. For longer trips, you can hire a private taxi or rent a car. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey if using a tuk-tuk or taxi. Walking is also a feasible option within the city for short distances.
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The official currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are widely available in Ratnapura, but it is prudent to have enough cash on hand for emergencies. Currency exchange services are available at banks and authorized money changers.
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Ratnapura is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Ratnapura does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is best to stay vigilant. Be cautious when dealing with street vendors and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
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In case of emergency, dial 119 for police assistance or 110 for an ambulance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Ratnapura. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The Ratnapura General Hospital provides medical care, and there are several private clinics as well.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a nod. The traditional Sri Lankan greeting involves clasping hands together in a prayer-like gesture and saying 'Ayubowan.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Ratnapura like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce, gemstones, and traditional Sri Lankan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the gem mines, which Ratnapura is famous for. For an authentic experience, try to arrange a guided tour of a gem mine. Additionally, explore the natural beauty of the surrounding rainforests and waterfalls, such as Bopath Ella and Katugas Ella.
Trending Landmarks in Ratnapura
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Sri Sumana Saman Devalaya
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Katugas Ella Waterfall
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Rathnapura National Museum
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Dehena Waterfall
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Mapalana Ella Falls
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Rajanawa Waterfall
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පොත්ගුල් විහාරය
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Dumpus Ella
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Wanaidalaketiya Sri Ariyagnana Temple
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Rathnapura Clock Tower (රත්නපුර ඔරලෝසු කණුව)
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රත්මල් ඇල්ල
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Gemmological musemum
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පොත්ගුල් විහාරය - Cave
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Lihiniyan Kelina Ella Falls
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Ratnapura Portuguese Fort – රත්නපුර පෘතුගීසි බලකොටුව
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