4.3·Colombo·4m
Colombo to Kitulgala Transfer
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1 / 7Ratnapura Full Day Tour with Water Falls, Gem Mines and Saman Devalaya
(5)
Colombo, Sri LankaAdventure ToursNature ToursArts & Culture
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About this activity
Explore Ratnapura, Sri Lanka's legendary gem-trading hub, on a full-day excursion from Colombo featuring working gem mines, sacred Buddhist temples, and pristine jungle waterfalls. This tour combines cultural heritage, spiritual sites, and natural beauty in the heart of the Sabaragamuwa Province.
Ratnapura is a major city in Sri Lanka. It is the capital city of Sabaragamuwa Province, as well as the Ratnapura District, and is a traditional center for the Sri Lankan gem trade. It is located on the Kalu Ganga in south-central Sri Lanka, some 101 km (63 mi) southeast of the country's capital, Colombo.
Ratnapura is also spelled as Rathnapura. The name 'Ratnapura' is a Sanskrit word meaning "city of gems", from the Sanskrit words Pura and Ratna (gemstone).
Over 2000 years ago, when the first Buddhist monks arrived here from the northeastern provinces of India namely Bodh-Gaya, Varanasi, and Pataliputra, they not only brought with them the Buddhist religion, but since their teachings were mainly in Sanskrit and Pali they also influenced the local language.
While candy produced from the jaggery palm is traditionally known in this region as Ratnapura, it is more likely that the candy was named for the locale rather than vice versa.
Maha Saman Devalaya or the Great Saman Temple a shrine dedicated to the deity Saman, situated at Ratnapura, Sri Lanka who is the presiding deity of the Sri Pada Mountain (Adam's Peak) which is also called Samanthakuta meaning the mountain of Saman which is believed to have the left foot impression of Lord Buddha which he kept in his visit to Sri Lanka
Bopath Ella is a very attractive waterfall in Kuriwita Sri Lanka and you can take photos and a bath!
Highlights
- ✓Visit active gem mines and learn traditional Sri Lankan gemstone extraction techniques
- ✓Explore Maha Saman Devalaya, a centuries-old shrine dedicated to the guardian deity of Adam's Peak
- ✓Swim and photograph at Bopath Ella waterfall in the Kuriwita jungle
- ✓Discover Ratnapura's 2,000-year Buddhist history and Sanskrit-influenced heritage
- ✓Browse local gem traders and understand the region's role in global gemstone commerce
Insider tips
- ★Bring a waterproof bag and quick-dry clothes—the waterfall swim is a highlight, not optional
- ★Visit gem mines early in the day for the best light and cooler temperatures
- ★Negotiate respectfully with gem traders; prices are flexible but quality varies significantly
- ★The drive from Colombo is scenic but can be hot—request a vehicle with good air conditioning
Good to know
- •Wear sturdy, water-friendly footwear suitable for muddy paths and waterfall rocks
- •Bring swimwear, sun protection, and insect repellent for the jungle environment
- •Tour departs from Colombo; exact pickup time and location will be confirmed upon booking
- •Moderate fitness level needed for waterfall hikes and walking through gem mines
Who it's for
Adventure seekers interested in off-the-beaten-path natural attractionsCultural enthusiasts exploring Buddhist heritage and local traditionsGem collectors and jewellery lovers curious about sourcing and miningNature photographers drawn to waterfalls and jungle landscapes
Best time to visit
October to April offers the driest conditions and most comfortable temperatures for hiking and gem mine visits. Morning departures maximize time at Bopath Ella before afternoon crowds and heat intensity peak.
Frequently asked questions
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From€193
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