Ratnapura district

Ratnapura district lies in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. Ratnapura is known as the “City of Gems”. It is rich in gem mining and has a vibrant culture. The district attracts tourists not only for its gems but also for its natural beauty, which includes forests, rivers, and mountains.

It is known as රත්නපුර දිස්ත්‍රික්කය (ratnapura distrikkaya) in Sinhala and இரத்தினபுரி மாவட்டம் (Rattiṉapuri Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

Ratnapura has a long history tied to the gem trade. For centuries, this area has been a trading center for the precious stones mined from its soil. Legends say that gem trading in Ratnapura dates back to the time of King Solomon, who supposedly received gems from this region. The city’s name itself means ‘City of Gems’ in Sinhala, reflecting its historical importance in the gem industry.

Geography

The Ratnapura District is famous for its varied geography, ranging from flat lands to rolling hills and dense forests. It covers an area of about 3,275 square kilometers (1,264 sq mi). The district is bordered by the Western, Central, Uva, and Southern provinces, making it a crucial junction for several ecological zones. The Kalu Ganga flows through the district, adding to its rich biodiversity. This diverse geography supports a variety of wildlife and plants, making it a hotspot for nature lovers.