PassionExplorer
CategoriesDisclaimer
PassionExplorer

Discover passions, destinations, and experiences curated by explorers worldwide.

X (Twitter)YouTubeFacebook

Company

  • About
  • Contact
  • Disclaimer

Explore

  • Browse all categories
  • Nature & Science Passions
  • Wildlife & Conservation Passions
  • Food & Agricultural Passions
  • Adventure & Technical Passions
  • Cultural Heritage & Creative Passions
  • Wellness & Spiritual Passions
© 2026 PassionExplorer. All rights reserved.
Ratnapura · Gemstone & Mineral Hunting

Passion Explorer

Ratnapura · Gemstone & Mineral Hunting

Known as the 'City of Gems' with the highest gem density globally. The area is famous for sapphires (blue and padparadscha), cat's eye, and moonstone through traditional pit mining methods that visitors can witness. Facilities include established gem tourism infrastructure and a National Gem Museum. Markets in Beruwala and Ratnapura are popular for certified gem purchases. Daily costs range $80-250, with mine tours costing $30-100.

Destination Overview

Known as the 'City of Gems' with the highest gem density globally. The area is famous for sapphires (blue and padparadscha), cat's eye, and moonstone through traditional pit mining methods that visitors can witness. Facilities include established gem tourism infrastructure and a National Gem Museum. Markets in Beruwala and Ratnapura are popular for certified gem purchases. Daily costs range $80-250, with mine tours costing $30-100.

Trip insights

Key planning notes tailored to this passion-forward getaway.

Best season
None
Difficulty
6
Region
Sri Lanka, Sabaragamuwa Province

Where to Stay

Find and book accommodations near this destination. Click on map markers to view prices and availability.

Powered by Stay22 · Click markers to view and book accommodations

Discover More

Browse through 5+ photos of Ratnapura.

a baseball field with buildings in the background

Photo by not torpedo

unsplash

A powerful waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs.

Photo by Ranmali Kirinde

unsplash

Evening

Photo by Oshadha Viduranga

unsplash

A lush green forest surrounds a tall waterfall

Photo by Ranmali Kirinde

unsplash

Before the Bloom

Photo by Oshadha Viduranga

unsplash