Explore the Dhanaja Gem Museum: A Treasure Trove of Sri Lankan Gems
Discover the enchanting world of Sri Lankan gemstones at Dhanaja Gem Museum in Ratnapura, where beauty and history intertwine.
A brief summary to Dhanaja Gem Museum
- 590 Colombo Road, Ratnapura, New Town, 70000, LK
- +94770112817
Located in the heart of Ratnapura, the Dhanaja Gem Museum is a gem lover's paradise, offering an impressive array of gemstones that highlights Sri Lanka's rich geological heritage. Known as the 'City of Gems', Ratnapura is the ideal backdrop for this museum, which educates visitors on the significance of gems in Sri Lankan culture and economy. The museum features an extensive collection of various gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and the famed Ceylon gems, providing insight into their formation, mining, and processing. Each exhibit is meticulously curated, showcasing not only the beauty of the stones but also the artistry involved in crafting them into exquisite jewelry. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that delve into the history of gem mining in Sri Lanka, offering fascinating anecdotes and facts that enrich the experience. The knowledgeable staff are eager to share their expertise, making the visit both educational and engaging. The museum also offers a selection of jewelry and loose gemstones for sale, allowing tourists to take a piece of Sri Lanka home with them. Whether you're an avid collector or simply curious about the world of gems, the Dhanaja Gem Museum promises a memorable visit that combines culture, history, and the allure of precious stones. Don't miss the chance to explore this unique attraction and discover why Sri Lanka is celebrated as one of the world's premier gem destinations.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more personalized experience.
- Ask about special guided tours that provide deeper insights into the gem cutting and polishing process.
- Don't forget to check out the gift shop for authentic Sri Lankan jewelry and gemstones at reasonable prices.
- Photography is allowed, but be sure to inquire about any specific restrictions before taking pictures.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from Colombo, take the E03 highway towards Ratnapura. After approximately 90 km, take the exit towards Ratnapura. Continue on the A4 road and follow the signs to Ratnapura city center. Once you reach the city, turn onto Colombo Road (A4) and continue straight. The Dhanaja Gem Museum is located at 590 Colombo Road, just after the New Town area. Look for parking options along the road or in nearby lots.
-
Public Transportation - Bus
From Colombo, board a bus heading to Ratnapura from the Pettah bus station. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you arrive at the Ratnapura bus station, you can either walk or take a tuk-tuk to Dhanaja Gem Museum. For walking, head north on Main Street and then turn right onto Colombo Road (A4). The museum will be on your left at 590 Colombo Road. A tuk-tuk ride will cost approximately 200 LKR and take about 10 minutes.
-
Public Transportation - Train
Take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Ratnapura. The train journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you arrive at Ratnapura Railway Station, you can either walk or take a tuk-tuk to the museum. Walking will take around 30 minutes; head north on Station Road, then turn left onto Colombo Road (A4). The museum is located at 590 Colombo Road. A tuk-tuk ride will cost about 250 LKR.
Attractions Nearby to Dhanaja Gem Museum
- පතල් වාඩිය
- Samanala Mountain view point
- Balibathgoda Thotupola
- Sri Sumana Saman Devalaya
- Katugas Ella Waterfall
- Bo Tree - Hospital Ratnapura
- Ratnapura | Gem City Tour with Sampa Wayo Sri Lanka
- Rathnapura National Museum
- Thepulangoda Waterfall
- පොත්ගුල් විහාරය
- සූරිය ඇල්ල
- Bo Tree
- සෙව්වන්දි garden
- Hidellana Kanda View Point
- Malankanda dola
Landmarks nearby to Dhanaja Gem Museum
- Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Complex
- Ministry of Tourism - Sabaragamuwa
- Irrigation Circuit Bungalow
- Ratnapura Portuguese Fort – රත්නපුර පෘතුගීසි බලකොටුව
- The Royal Peak Resort
- පොත්ගුල් විහාරය - Cave
- පොත්ගුල් විහාරය
- Rathnapura Clock Tower (රත්නපුර ඔරලෝසු කණුව)
- Faculty of Medicine (Pre clinical complex)-Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
- Gemmological musemum
- Kunu Diya Parwathaya, කුණු දිය පව්ව.
- Wathura tenkiya ( වතුර ටැංකිය)
- Lihiniyan Kelina Ella Falls
- adamspeak
- Idi Katu Paana (ඉඳිකටු පාන)