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Ratnapura
Ratnapura
Ratnapura
Ratnapura, often known as the ‘City of Gems,’ is located near the Sinharaja Rain Forest and at the foot of Adam’s Peak. Sri Lanka has been recognised throughout history as a place of diamonds. Serendip (Sri Lanka’s old name) is claimed to have provided King Solomon with a large ruby for the queen of Sheba. Marco Polo (1293 AD) described the ruby that previously adorned Anuradhapura’s Ruwanweliseya Dagoba as “a flawless ruby a span-long and quite as thick as a man’s fist.” Sinbad’s excursion to the Serendib Mountains is considered to correspond to Ratnapura in Sri Lanka.
Adam's Peak Climbing– Temple in the sky
Sinharaja Trekking
Visit the Gem Mine
Gem Museum
Adam's Peak Climbing– Temple in the sky
Ratnapura is located at the base of Adam’s Peak, which rises 2243 metres above sea level. It’s also where the ‘Classic’ Hard path up Adam’s Peak begins. Adam’s peak is considered a holy peak by all four main religions. Buddhists refer to the peak as Sri Pada (the sacred footprint) or Samanalakande (Butterfly Mountain) and believe the Lord Buddha visited it and left his sacred imprint. Hindus think it is Lord Shiva’s, while Muslims believe Adam first set foot on Earth after being driven out of paradise. Catholics believe it is the work of St. Thomas, a Christian Apostle who preached in South India.
Sinharaja Trekking
The Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is roughly 11,000 acres in size. This dense rain forest, which is relatively close to Ratnapura and has access from various directions. It possesses an astonishing variety of flora and fauna, which has piqued the interest of scientists and nature lovers who undertake excursions into the jungle to discover and admire its numerous natural treasures. Impressive waterfalls, flowing streams, and crystal pure freshwater streams are among them. A great deal of focus and emphasis is now being placed on preserving this priceless resource known as Sinharaja.
Visit the Gem Mine
Sri Lanka is famous for manufacturing some of the most beautiful jewels globally, such as the Blue Bell, which graces the British crown, and the ‘Star of India.’ Ratnapura is the island’s gem mining centre, and a visit here will allow you to witness the process of excavating the pits and washing the gravel containing the stones.
Gem Museum
The Ratnapura Gem Museum has a stunning collection of precious and semi-precious stone samples, including sapphires, rubies, and amethysts. There are also images, equipment, and other things on display that illustrate the history and methodology of this industry.
