If you are looking for a destination that offers a unique and fascinating experience, then Ratnapura is the place for you. Ratnapura is a city in Sri Lanka that is known as the city of gems, as it is the source of some of the most precious and beautiful gemstones in the world. Ratnapura is also a city that has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, nature, and adventure.
Ratnapura is located in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, about 100 km southeast of Colombo. It has a tropical climate, with an average temperature of 25°C and a high rainfall throughout the year. It has a population of about 50,000 people, who speak mainly Sinhala and Tamil. Ratnapura is the gateway to the hill country of Sri Lanka, where you can find some of the most scenic and diverse landscapes in the country.
In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Ratnapura, the city of gems in Sri Lanka. We will cover the best attractions, activities, hotels, restaurants, and tours in Ratnapura, as well as some tips and recommendations to make your visit more enjoyable and memorable. Whether you are interested in gemstones, temples, waterfalls, wildlife, or hiking, you will find something that suits your taste and budget in Ratnapura.
Attractions in Ratnapura
One of the main reasons to visit Ratnapura is to explore its gem industry and learn more about the history, variety, and quality of gemstones in Sri Lanka. Ratnapura is home to some of the most famous and valuable gems in the world, such as sapphires, rubies, cat's eyes, alexandrites, and moonstones. You can visit the following attractions to see how gemstones are mined, traded, and displayed in Ratnapura:
- Gem Museum: a museum that showcases the history, variety, and quality of gemstones in Sri Lanka, with exhibits, demonstrations, and souvenirs. You can see some of the rarest and most exquisite gems in the world, such as the Blue Belle of Asia, the Star of India, and the Rosser Reeves Star Ruby. You can also learn about the different types, colors, shapes, and cuts of gemstones, as well as the techniques and tools used to mine, wash, sort, and polish them. You can also buy some gemstones or jewellery as a souvenir or a gift from the museum shop. The Gem Museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day, and the entrance fee is 500 LKR per person.
-Gem Market: a market where traders and buyers can buy and sell gemstones, jewellery, and other related products, with bargaining, auctions, and negotiations. You can witness the lively and colorful atmosphere of the gem trade, where you can see hundreds of stalls and shops selling all kinds of gems and jewellery, from cheap and common to expensive and rare. You can also try your luck and skill in bargaining or bidding for the gems you like, or just browse and admire the sparkling and dazzling display of gems. The Gem Market is open from 8 am to 6 pm every day, and there is no entrance fee.
- Gem Mines: mines where visitors can see the process of gem mining, from digging, washing, sorting, to polishing, with opportunities to try it themselves or buy some gems. You can visit one of the many gem mines in and around Ratnapura, where you can see how the miners work in difficult and dangerous conditions to extract the gems from the earth. You can also learn about the different methods and stages of gem mining, such as pit mining, river mining, and mechanized mining. You can also participate in some of the activities, such as digging, washing, or panning for gems, or even finding your own gem. You can also buy some gems from the miners or the dealers at the mines. The gem mines are open from 9 am to 4 pm every day, and the entrance fee varies depending on the mine and the activities.
Apart from the gem industry, Ratnapura also has some other attractions that are worth visiting, such as:
- Maha Saman Dewalaya: a temple dedicated to the guardian deity of Ratnapura, Saman, who is also associated with Adam's Peak, with religious ceremonies, festivals, and architecture. You can visit this temple to see the beautiful and intricate design and decoration of the temple, which features a pagoda, a shrine, a hall, and a pond. You can also witness the devotion and faith of the pilgrims and worshippers, who come to the temple to pray, offer flowers, light lamps, and receive blessings. You can also join the annual festival of the temple, which is held in August or September, where you can see processions, dances, music, and fireworks. The Maha Saman Dewalaya is open from 6 am to 6 pm every day, and there is no entrance fee.
- Kalthota Doowili Ella Falls: a waterfall that is also known as the Veil of the Bride, with scenic views, hiking trails, and natural pools. You can visit this waterfall to see the stunning and refreshing sight of the water cascading down from a height of 63 meters, forming a thin and white curtain of water. You can also hike along the trail that leads to the waterfall, where you can enjoy the nature and wildlife of the area, such as birds, butterflies, and monkeys. You can also swim or relax in one of the natural pools at the base of the waterfall, where you can feel the cool and clear water. The Kalthota Doowili Ella Falls is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day, and there is no entrance fee.
- Kajugaswatta Temple: a temple that is also known as the Temple of the Bamboo Grove, with ancient paintings, sculptures, and relics. You can visit this temple to see the artistic and historical value of the temple, which dates back to the 18th century. You can see some of the finest examples of Kandyan art, such as the paintings of the Jataka stories, the sculptures of the Buddha and the Bodhisattvas, and the relics of the tooth and the hair of the Buddha. You can also appreciate the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the temple, which is surrounded by a bamboo grove. The Kajugaswatta Temple is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day, and there is no entrance fee.
- Ratnapura National Museum: a museum that displays the cultural and natural heritage of Ratnapura, with exhibits on archaeology, geology, zoology, and anthropology. You can visit this museum to see the diverse and interesting collection of the museum, which includes fossils, minerals, rocks, gems, coins, pottery, weapons, masks, costumes, and musical instruments. You can also learn about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the people of Ratnapura, as well as the flora and fauna of the region. The Ratnapura National Museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day, except on public holidays, and the entrance fee is 100 LKR per person.
- Katugas Ella Falls: a waterfall that is also known as the Milk Falls, with picturesque views, picnic spots, and camping sites. You can visit this waterfall to see the spectacular and soothing sight of the water falling from a height of 6 meters, forming a milky white stream of water. You can also picnic or camp at one of the designated areas near the waterfall, where you can enjoy the nature and tranquility of the place. You can also explore the nearby attractions, such as the Batadomba Lena Cave, where prehistoric human remains have been found. The Katugas Ella Falls is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day, and there is no entrance fee.
Activities in Ratnapura
Another reason to visit Ratnapura is to enjoy some of the activities that are available in and around the city, such as:
- Climb Adam's Peak: a mountain that is considered sacred by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians, with a footprint of Buddha, Shiva, Adam, or St. Thomas, depending on the faith, and a pilgrimage site, especially during the full moon. You can visit this mountain to experience the challenge and the reward of climbing the 5,500 steps to the summit, where you can see the sunrise, the shadow of the peak, and the temple. You can also feel the spiritual and cultural significance of the mountain, where you can meet and interact with pilgrims and monks from different backgrounds and beliefs. You can also admire the natural beauty and diversity of the mountain, where you can see waterfalls, forests, and wildlife. The best time to climb Adam's Peak is from December to May, when the weather is dry and clear, and the path is illuminated and crowded. The entrance fee is free, but donations are welcome.
- Visit Sinharaja Rain Forest: a rain forest that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot, with endemic flora and fauna, hiking trails, and guided tours. You can visit this rain forest to explore one - of the most pristine and diverse ecosystems in the world, where you can see more than 50% of Sri Lanka's endemic species of plants and animals, such as the purple-faced langur, the red-faced malkoha, the blue magpie, and the giant squirrel. You can also hike along one of the trails that lead to different parts of the forest, such as the Kudawa Trail, the Pitadeniya Trail, or the Morning Side Trail, where you can enjoy the scenery, the sounds, and the smells of the forest. You can also join a guided tour that will take you to the best spots and explain the ecology and conservation of the forest. The best time to visit Sinharaja Rain Forest is from January to April, when the weather is dry and sunny, and the wildlife is more active. The entrance fee is 650 LKR per person, and the guide fee is 1,500 LKR per group.
-Visit Bopath Ella Falls: a waterfall that is shaped like a Bo leaf, which is a symbol of Buddhism, with stunning views, swimming spots, and boat rides. You can visit this waterfall to see the spectacular and soothing sight of the water falling from a height of 30 meters, forming a Bo leaf-shaped stream of water. You can also swim or relax in one of the natural pools at the base of the waterfall, where you can feel the cool and clear water. You can also take a boat ride along the river that flows from the waterfall, where you can see the surrounding nature and wildlife, such as birds, fish, and monkeys. The best time to visit Bopath Ella Falls is from November to April, when the water level is high and the flow is strong. The entrance fee is 50 LKR per person, and the boat ride fee is 500 LKR per boat.
- Visit Udawalawe National Park: a national park that is home to a large population of elephants, as well as other wildlife, such as leopards, crocodiles, deer, and birds, with safari tours, jeep rides, and camping sites. You can visit this national park to see the amazing and diverse wildlife of Sri Lanka, especially the elephants, which number around 600 in the park. You can also see how the animals live and interact in their natural habitat, such as grazing, bathing, playing, and fighting. You can also join a safari tour that will take you to the best places and times to see the animals, with a professional guide, a comfortable jeep, and a picnic lunch. You can also camp at one of the sites in the park, where you can sleep under the stars and listen to the sounds of the night. The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is from June to September, when the weather is dry and the animals are more visible. The entrance fee is 3,500 LKR per person, and the safari tour fee is 6,000 LKR per jeep.
- Visit Horton Plains National Park: a national park that is a highland plateau with unique ecosystems, landscapes, and climate, with attractions such as World's End, Baker's Falls, and Cloud Forests, with trekking, birdwatching, and photography. You can visit this national park to see the different and distinctive features of the park, such as the World's End, which is a sheer cliff that drops 870 meters to the valley below, with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and plains, the Baker's Falls, which is a cascading waterfall that flows through a rocky gorge, with a misty and rainbow-filled atmosphere, and the Cloud Forests, which are forests that are covered by clouds and mist, with a cool and moist climate, and a rich and rare flora and fauna. You can also trek along the circular trail that covers the main attractions of the park, where you can enjoy the nature and wildlife of the area, such as the sambar deer, the bear monkey, the yellow-eared bulbul, and the rhino-horned lizard. You can also take photos of the stunning and scenic views of the park, especially at sunrise and sunset. The best time to visit Horton Plains National Park is from January to March, when the weather is clear and sunny, and the visibility is high. The entrance fee is 3,500 LKR per person, and the guide fee is 1,000 LKR per group.
- Visit Nuwara Eliya: a city that is also known as Little England, with a colonial charm, tea plantations, gardens, and lakes, with activities such as golfing, boating, and horse riding. You can visit this city to see the contrast and the similarity between the British and the Sri Lankan culture and lifestyle, as well as the beauty and the diversity of the city. You can see some of the colonial buildings and landmarks, such as the Grand Hotel, the Post Office, the Golf Club, and the Race Course. You can also see some of the tea plantations and factories, where you can learn about the history, production, and quality of tea in Sri Lanka, as well as taste and buy some of the finest tea in the world. You can also see some of the gardens and lakes, such as the Victoria Park, the Hakgala Botanical Garden, and the Gregory Lake, where you can relax and enjoy the nature and the scenery of the city. You can also do some of the activities that are available in the city, such as golfing, boating, horse riding, cycling, or fishing. The best time to visit Nuwara Eliya is from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are blooming. The entrance fee varies depending on the attraction, and the activity fee varies depending on the provider.
Hotels in Ratnapura
If you are looking for a place to stay in Ratnapura, you have a range of options to choose from, depending on your preference and budget. You can find some of the best hotels in Ratnapura, such as:
- Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort: a resort that offers luxury accommodation, facilities, and services, with views of the Udawalawe National Park, a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a bar. You can stay at this resort if you want to enjoy the comfort and convenience of a four-star hotel, as well as the proximity and access to the Udawalawe National Park, where you can see elephants and other wildlife. You can choose from different types of rooms and suites, such as deluxe, super deluxe, family, and honeymoon, which are spacious, elegant, and well-equipped. You can also enjoy the facilities and services of the resort, such as the swimming pool, the spa, the gym, the conference hall, the restaurant, and the bar, which offer quality and variety. You can also book a safari tour or a jeep ride to the Udawalawe National Park, which is only 10 minutes away from the resort. The Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort is located at Thanamalwila Road, Udawalawe, and the price range is from 15,000 to 25,000 LKR per night. You can check the availability and book the resort [here].
- Nature Park Udawalawe: a park that offers eco-friendly accommodation, facilities, and services, with views of the Udawalawe Reservoir, a garden, a barbecue, a restaurant, and a lounge. You can stay at this park if you want to experience the nature and the culture of Ratnapura, as well as the adventure and the wildlife of the Udawalawe National Park. You can choose from different types of accommodation, such as cottages, tents, and tree houses, which are simple, cozy, and clean. You can also enjoy the facilities and services of the park, such as the garden, the barbecue, the restaurant, and the lounge, which offer a relaxing and friendly atmosphere. You can also book a safari tour or a jeep ride to the Udawalawe National Park, which is only 15 minutes away from the park. The Nature Park Udawalawe is located at Udawalawe Junction, Udawalawe, and the price range is from 3,000 to 10,000 LKR per night. You can check the availability and book the park [here].
- Mount K Resort - Hostel: a hostel that offers budget accommodation, facilities, and services, with views of the mountains, a terrace, a shared kitchen, a restaurant, and a coffee shop. You can stay at this hostel if you want to meet and mingle with other travelers, as well as explore the attractions and activities of Ratnapura and nearby places. You can choose from different types of rooms, such as dorms, private rooms, and family rooms, which are basic, comfortable, and affordable. You can also enjoy the facilities and services of the hostel, such as the terrace, the shared kitchen, the restaurant, and the coffee shop, which offer a social and lively environment. You can also book a tour or a ticket to the attractions and activities of Ratnapura and nearby places, such as the gem museum, the gem market, the gem mines, the Maha Saman Dewalaya, the Kalthota Doowili Ella Falls, the Kajugaswatta Temple, the Ratnapura National Museum, the Katugas Ella Falls, the Adam's Peak, the Sinharaja Rain Forest, the Bopath Ella Falls, the Udawalawe National Park, and the Horton Plains National Park. The Mount K Resort - Hostel is located at 1/1, Ratnapura Road, Pelmadulla, and the price range is from 1,000 to 5,000 LKR per night. You can check the availability and book the hostel [here].
Restaurants in Ratnapura
If you are looking for a place to eat in Ratnapura, you have a variety of options to choose from, depending on your taste and appetite. You can find some of the best restaurants in Ratnapura, such as:
- Garland Caf'e: a cafe that offers a variety of dishes, drinks, and desserts, with a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and live music. You can visit this cafe if you want to try some of the local and international cuisine, such as rice and curry, noodles, burgers, pizzas, salads, soups, sandwiches, cakes, pies, ice creams, coffees, teas, juices, and cocktails. You can also enjoy the atmosphere and the service of the cafe, which are warm and welcoming. You can also listen to some of the live music and entertainment that are performed by local artists and bands. The Garland Caf'e is located at 1st Floor, No. 2, Colombo Road, Ratnapura, and the price range is from 500 to 2,000 LKR per person.
- Queens Fresh Juice Court: a juice bar that offers fresh and healthy juices, smoothies, and salads, with a colorful decor, attentive service, and reasonable prices. You can visit this juice bar if you want to refresh and rejuvenate yourself with some of the natural and nutritious drinks and snacks, such as mango, pineapple, watermelon, papaya, banana, carrot, beetroot, spinach, kale, avocado, coconut, yogurt, honey, granola, nuts, seeds, and more. You can also customize your own juice or smoothie, or choose from one of the pre-made options, such as the detox, the energy, the immunity, or the beauty. You can also enjoy the decor and the service of the juice bar, which are bright and cheerful. The Queens Fresh Juice Court is located at No. 1, Colombo Road, Ratnapura, and the price range is from 200 to 500 LKR per person.
- Bamboo Restaurant: a restaurant that offers authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, with a rustic ambience, courteous staff, and generous portions. You can visit this restaurant if you want to taste some of the traditional and delicious dishes of Sri Lanka, such as hoppers, string hoppers, roti, kottu, pittu, lamprais, biryani, pol sambol, seeni sambol, lunu miris, mallum, parippu, wattakka, gotukola, wambatu, kiri hodhi, fish curry, chicken curry, mutton curry, egg curry, cuttlefish curry, prawn curry, crab curry, and more. You can also enjoy the ambience and the service of the restaurant, which are cozy and friendly. The Bamboo Restaurant is located at No. 3, Colombo Road, Ratnapura, and the price range is from 500 to 1,500 LKR per person.
Tours in Ratnapura
One of the best ways to experience Ratnapura and its surroundings is to join one of the tours that are available in and around the city, such as:
- Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour: a tour that takes visitors to the Udawalawe National Park, where they can see elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and other wildlife, with a professional guide, a comfortable jeep, and a picnic lunch. You can join this tour if you want to see the amazing and diverse wildlife of Sri Lanka, especially the elephants, which number around 600 in the park. You can also see how the animals live and interact in their natural habitat, such as grazing, bathing, playing, and fighting. You can also learn about the ecology and conservation of the park, as well as the history and culture of the area, from your guide. You can also enjoy the scenery and the atmosphere of the park, as well as the picnic lunch that is provided. The Udawalawe National Park Safari Tour is available every day, and the duration is about 4 hours. The price is 6,000 LKR per jeep, which can accommodate up to 6 people.
- Hiking Tour With Holiday Walkers Sri Lanka: a tour that takes visitors to the Adam's Peak, where they can climb the mountain, see the sunrise, and visit the temple, with a knowledgeable guide, a safe route, and a breakfast. You can join this tour if you want to experience the challenge and the reward of climbing the 5,500 steps to the summit, where you can see the sunrise, the shadow of the peak, and the temple. You can also feel the spiritual and cultural significance of the mountain, where you can meet and interact with pilgrims and monks from different backgrounds and beliefs. You can also admire the natural beauty and diversity of the mountain, where you can see waterfalls, forests, and wildlife. You can also enjoy the breakfast that is provided at the end of the hike. The Hiking Tour With Holiday Walkers Sri Lanka is available every day, and the duration is about 8 hours. The price is 3,000 LKR per person, which includes the guide fee, the entrance fee, the transport fee, and the breakfast. You can book the tour [here].
- Udawalawe National Park Private Safari: a tour that takes visitors to the Udawalawe National Park, where they can see elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and other wildlife, with a private guide, a customized jeep, and a flexible schedule. You can join this tour if you want to have a personalized and exclusive safari experience, where you can choose your own time, route, and pace, as well as the animals you want to see. You can also have a one-on-one interaction with your guide, who will cater to your needs and preferences, as well as share their knowledge and stories about the park and the wildlife. You can also enjoy the comfort and convenience of your own jeep, which is spacious, clean, and well-equipped. The Udawalawe National Park Private Safari is available every day, and the duration is up to you. The price is 10,000 LKR per jeep, which can accommodate up to 4 people.
Conclusion
Ratnapura is a city in Sri Lanka that is famous for its gem industry and rich culture and history. In this article, we have provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Ratnapura, the city of gems in Sri Lanka. We have covered the best attractions, activities, hotels, restaurants, and tours in Ratnapura, as well as some tips and recommendations to make your visit more enjoyable and memorable.
Whether you are interested in gemstones, temples, waterfalls, wildlife, or hiking, you will find something that suits your taste and budget in Ratnapura.