Situated in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, Ratnapura is a city filled with stunning natural beauty, fascinating cultural attractions, and a vibrant atmosphere. With its lush green landscapes, picturesque waterfalls, and breathtaking views, Ratnapura is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Sri Lanka. From ancient monuments to religious sites, here are the top 20 places to visit in Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.
1. Saman Devalaya
Saman Devalaya is a sacred temple dedicated to the god Saman. It is one of the most important religious sites in Ratnapura and is believed to be more than 2000 years old. The temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
2. Gem Museum
The Gem Museum in Ratnapura is a must-visit for anyone interested in gems and jewelry. Here, visitors can learn about the history of gem mining in Ratnapura, and view a variety of precious stones. The museum also houses a large collection of jewelry, including pieces made from Ratnapura’s famous blue sapphires.
3. Ratnapura Raja Maha Vihara
The Ratnapura Raja Maha Vihara is a stunning Buddhist temple located in the heart of Ratnapura. Built in the 13th century, the temple is home to a beautiful collection of Buddhist statues and paintings. Visitors can also explore the temple’s peaceful gardens and take part in meditation and prayer sessions.
4. Pothgul Vihara
The Pothgul Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the city of Ratnapura. Built in the 1st century BC, the temple is home to a collection of ancient artifacts, including stone carvings and inscriptions. Visitors can also explore the temple’s peaceful gardens and take part in meditation and prayer sessions.
5. Kuruwita Ella Falls
Kuruwita Ella Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Ratnapura district. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the stunning views. Visitors can also take a dip in the clear, cool waters of the falls.
6. Kitulgala
Kitulgala is a small town located in the Ratnapura district. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular spot for trekking, rafting, and bird watching. Visitors can also explore the nearby rainforest and take a dip in the cool waters of the Kelani River.
7. Sinharaja Rainforest
The Sinharaja Rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Ratnapura district. The rainforest is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare birds and mammals. Visitors can explore the rainforest on foot or take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
8. Ratnapura Clock Tower
The Ratnapura Clock Tower is a historic clock tower located in the center of Ratnapura. Built in the 19th century, the clock tower is a popular spot for visitors to take in the stunning views of the city. The clock tower is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants.
9. Kaltota
Kaltota is a small village located in the Ratnapura district. The village is known for its stunning scenery and is a popular spot for visitors to explore the nearby hills and take in the stunning views. Visitors can also visit the nearby tea plantations and learn about the local tea production process.
10. Balangoda
Balangoda is a small town located in the Ratnapura district. The town is home to a variety of attractions, including the Balangoda Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts. Visitors can also explore the nearby hills and take in the stunning views.
11. Bogoda
Bogoda is a small village located in the Ratnapura district. The village is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular spot for trekking and bird watching. Visitors can also explore the nearby hills and take in the stunning views.
12. Balangoda Cave Temple
The Balangoda Cave Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the Ratnapura district. The temple is home to a variety of ancient artifacts, including stone carvings and inscriptions. Visitors can also explore the temple’s peaceful gardens and take part in meditation and prayer sessions.
13. Yagirala Forest Reserve
The Yagirala Forest Reserve is a protected area located in the Ratnapura district. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare birds and mammals. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
14. Uda Walawe National Park
The Uda Walawe National Park is a protected area located in the Ratnapura district. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and wild boars. Visitors can explore the park on foot or take a safari to view the local wildlife.
15. Embilipitiya
Embilipitiya is a small town located in the Ratnapura district. The town is known for its stunning scenery and is a popular spot for visitors to explore the nearby hills and take in the stunning views. Visitors can also visit the nearby tea plantations and learn about the local tea production process.
16. Kalawana
Kalawana is a small town located in the Ratnapura district. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular spot for trekking, rafting, and bird watching. Visitors can also explore the nearby hills and take in the stunning views.
17. Kuruwita Ella Falls
Kuruwita Ella Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Ratnapura district. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the stunning views. Visitors can also take a dip in the clear, cool waters of the falls.
18. Kalugala
Kalugala is a small village located in the Ratnapura district. The village is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular spot for trekking, rafting, and bird watching. Visitors can also explore the nearby hills and take in the stunning views.
19. Neluwa
Neluwa is a small town located in the Ratnapura district. The town is known for its stunning scenery and is a popular spot for visitors to explore the nearby hills and take in the stunning views. Visitors can also visit the nearby tea plantations and learn about the local tea production process.
20. Balangoda Archaeological Museum
The Balangoda Archaeological Museum is located in the Ratn