Discover the Rich Heritage at Rathnapura National Museum
Explore the captivating history of Ratnapura at the National Museum, where gems and cultural treasures await every visitor.
The Rathnapura National Museum serves as a gateway into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Ratnapura, often referred to as the 'City of Gems'. This museum is not just a repository of artifacts; it is a narrative of the region's illustrious past, particularly its significance in the gem mining industry, which has flourished for centuries. Visitors can marvel at a remarkable collection of gems, jewelry, and historical artifacts that tell the story of Sri Lanka's deep connections to the earth and its treasures. The exhibits are meticulously curated, including items that reflect the daily lives of the people of Ratnapura, their customs, and the evolution of their craft. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka, showcasing the influences of various ethnicities and their contributions to the island's heritage. Educational programs and guided tours are often available, enhancing the visitors' experience and understanding of the exhibits. With its serene ambiance and informative displays, the Rathnapura National Museum is an ideal spot for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone keen to explore the soul of Sri Lanka. Whether you're an avid collector of gems or simply curious about the island's past, this museum promises an enlightening experience that will deepen your appreciation for the cultural richness of the region.
Local tips
- Visit on a Saturday when the museum is open until 6 PM for a longer experience.
- Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth insights into the exhibits.
- Check ahead for any special exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful of the artifacts and other visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you may spend considerable time exploring the various exhibits.
A brief summary to Rathnapura National Museum
- M9MX+PRP, Ratnapura, Moragahayata, LK
- +94452222451
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head to Moragahayata in Ratnapura. From the center of Ratnapura, take the main road (A4) towards the south. After approximately 1.5 kilometers, you will see signs for Moragahayata. Turn left onto the Moragahayata Road and continue for about 2 kilometers. Look for the Rathnapura National Museum on your left at M9MX+PRP. There is limited parking available near the museum.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Rathnapura National Museum by public transportation, start by finding a local bus heading towards Moragahayata. Buses frequently depart from the main bus station in Ratnapura. The fare is typically around 20 LKR. Once you arrive in Moragahayata, ask the bus conductor to drop you off near the museum. From the bus stop, it’s about a 10-minute walk – head straight down the main road, and you’ll see the museum on your left.
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Tuk-Tuk
For a more personalized travel experience, you can hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Ratnapura. Negotiate the fare beforehand; it should cost around 150-300 LKR depending on your starting point. The driver will take you directly to the Rathnapura National Museum, which is located at M9MX+PRP. This is a convenient option if you're traveling with luggage or prefer not to walk.
Attractions Nearby to Rathnapura National Museum
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Bo Tree
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Ratnapura | Gem City Tour with Sampa Wayo Sri Lanka
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Bo Tree - Hospital Ratnapura
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Demuwawatha Bridge
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Sri Sumana Saman Devalaya
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Katugas Ella Waterfall
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Dhanaja Gem Museum
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රත්මල් ඇල්ල
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පොත්ගුල් විහාරය
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පතල් වාඩිය
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Balibathgoda Thotupola
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Samanala Mountain view point
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සූරිය ඇල්ල
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Hidellana Kanda View Point
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Thepulangoda Waterfall
Landmarks nearby to Rathnapura National Museum
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Rathnapura Clock Tower (රත්නපුර ඔරලෝසු කණුව)
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Ratnapura Portuguese Fort – රත්නපුර පෘතුගීසි බලකොටුව
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Gemmological musemum
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පොත්ගුල් විහාරය - Cave
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පොත්ගුල් විහාරය
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Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Complex
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Ministry of Tourism - Sabaragamuwa
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Irrigation Circuit Bungalow
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The Royal Peak Resort
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Faculty of Medicine (Pre clinical complex)-Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
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Kunu Diya Parwathaya, කුණු දිය පව්ව.
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Idi Katu Paana (ඉඳිකටු පාන)
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adamspeak
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Heramitipaana Ambalama / හැරමිටිපාන අම්බලම
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Wathura tenkiya ( වතුර ටැංකිය)