About
Ratnapura is a city in Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa Province, in the southwest of the island. It serves as the provincial capital and is known across the country as the gem capital of Sri Lanka, a reputation that comes from its long-established role at the centre of the precious stone trade.
What a visit offers
For most visitors, the appeal of Ratnapura lies in its gem trade. The city is where much of the stone trade is conducted, so a stay here gives a direct view of an industry that is central to the local economy. Browsing the shops and dealers is a practical way to see how stones are bought, valued and traded, and it suits anyone with an interest in jewellery, minerals or craftsmanship.
Around the city
Ratnapura is also a base for exploring the surrounding Sabaragamuwa countryside. The region is one of the island's main areas for gem mining, and its landscape of hills and river valleys gives the city a distinctly rural setting. Visitors who want to see more than the town itself can use it as a starting point for trips into the surrounding area.
Is it worth the trip?
Ratnapura suits travellers who want to understand Sri Lanka's gem industry at first hand, or who are passing through the southwest and want a working provincial town rather than a resort. It is less about sights in the conventional sense and more about the commerce and landscape that define the place. Those expecting a tourist-oriented city may find it quieter and more businesslike than they imagine.
