Explore the Gemstone Industry in Ratnapura

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Explore the Gemstone Industry in Ratnapura

Active

12h - 13h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our professionaly qualified Gemologist will teach you the insides and outsides of the industry, from the geology to the formation of gemstones, Mining & to the distribution of gemstones in the island, the cutting industry to the marketing of gemstones in the west.

You will gain knowledge about the operation of an industry that has captivated the ancient and modern worlds.

If you are interested in gemstones, this is a one-on-one experience that you should not miss.

Available options

Explore the Gemstone Industry in Ratnapura

Pickup included

What's included

Gemstones Inspection Equipments

Bottled water

Breakfast

Air-conditioned vehicle

King Coconut Water

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

Heraniyawaka Gem Market is one of the most famous street markets for rough gemstones in Sri Lanka. It usually operates from 6.30 am to 9.30 am every day, these are peak hours but the market continues until noon.

You can mostly see sapphires and spinal in rough form in this market. Most of the mining people bring their stones to this market.

Closer to Town you will be visiting gemstone mining & also in River Mining.

In Ratnapura, Most of the gemstones being offered are rough Sapphires, but there are also cut and polished Sapphires and a wide variety of rough and cut-colored gemstones. The stones that have made the region world-famous are various Spinels, Aquamarines, Tourmalines, Topaz, Garnets, Amethyst, Cat’s eyes, Alexandrite, Zircons and Moonstones.

The National Museum of Ratnapura is one of the national museums of Sri Lanka. It is located in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka and it was opened on 13 May 1988. The museum building is called “Ehelepola Walauwa”, as it once belonged to Ehelepola Nilame, a courtier of the Kingdom of Kandy.

The museum includes exhibits on prehistoric archaeological inventions, natural heritage, geological, anthropological, zoological artifacts and models relating to the Sabaragamuwa Province.

Break for Lunch On Your Choice, we can recommend some places for you

The area closer to Kaluganga bridge at the Demuwawatha Street is a good place to view traditional cutting operations for high-quality sapphires and other gemstones such as cat’s-eye chrysoberyl. This method is still preferred by Sri Lanka cutters, especially for preforming.

The traditional method of gemstone faceting done by a manual instrument called ‘Hanaporuwa’ also known as the “Pattale” by natives . Hanaporuwa (Ceylon Bow Cutter) was the main instrument of gemstone faceting in Sri Lanka until the early 1970’s.

We will be visiting few gem shops in this area on our way to Colombo.

What's not included

Lunch

Coffee and/or Tea

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Total tour duration includes travel time

Meeting point

Please come to the 43D House Number, Its almost opposite to the St.Mary's Catholic Church

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat