Ratnapura is located 101km Southeast of Colombo on a scenic route of paddy fields, tea and rubber estates. It is situated at the foot of the famous Adam’s Peak. Sri Lanka, throughout history has been known for its gem production. History has it that King Solomon acquired a great ruby for the queen of Sheba from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has also produced three of the world’s largest blue sapphires including the Star of India and the Blue Bell, the sapphire that adorns the British Crown. A visit to one of the museums or gem workshops will give you the opportunity to witness a wide range of precious stones. From rubies, cat’s eyes, sapphires, aquamarines, topaz, amethysts and more – Sri Lanka is a real haven for gems. A visit to a gem mine would also prove to be an interesting one.
The Museum houses a range of remarkable precious and semi-precious gems: rubies; sapphires; amethyst etc. Among the other exhibits are images, artefacts and tools that elaborate the history and processes of the industry.
Sinharaja is the country's last viable area of primary tropical rainforest. More than 60% of the trees are endemic and many of them are considered rare. The reserve is home to much of Sri Lanka's endemic wildlife.
Although venerated by all religions, Adam's Peak remains essentially a Buddhist place of worship. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most striking natural landmarks and one of its most celebrated places of pilgrimage.
The Maha Saman Devalaya is considered the main Devalaya of deity Saman except for the Shrine at top of Sri Pada. History speaks of a temple at Ratnapura area since the time of King Dutugemunu, but the recent history starts from Dambadeniya period.