Explore Gem Mines in Ratnapura from Colombo

Located a short drive away from the city of Ratnapura, Nivithigala welcomes you to an immersive day tour, in a city that shares a rich heritage of gem mining which contributes significantly to the country’s economy. The small town of Nivithigala has emerged as a pivotal point in the gem mining trade while it is also known for its tea estates and tea culture. By the end of the tour, you may even take a sparkling souvenir back home.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Sri Lanka’s largest primary gem market
• Visit a working Gem mine and meet local miners
• Discover the process of gem cutting and polishing

Includes:

• An English speaking driver with expert knowledge of Nivithigala and its surroundings
• Hotel pick up and drop off
• Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
• One Water bottle per person

Excludes:

• Entrance tickets / Activity tickets
• Food and Drinks (Other than what is mentioned in the tour)
• Gratuities (Optional)
• Expenses of Personal Nature

The Experience

• 9.00 am - Arrive at the designated meeting point in Nivithigala which is about a 3 - 4 hour drive away from Colombo. An English speaking driver will pick you from your hotel prior to the meeting time which will be around 5 or 6 in the morning depending on your hotel stay in Colombo. By 9 am we will meet with our tour guide who will give you a short introduction to the day’s activities.
• 9.15 am - Walk into Sri Lanka’s largest primary gem market which is usually open daily from 7.00 am to 10.30 am. Observe the activities of miners, traders, and collectors dealing with rough, cut, and polished gems including zircons, sapphires, garnets, and spinels. With your guide’s help you can engage with local traders and even try negotiating a price.
• 10.15 am - Enjoy a cup of traditional Sri Lankan tea and snacks at a nearby café while discussing your market experience.
• 11.00 am - Transfer to a working gem mine where you will learn about pit and river mining techniques. You can even enter a mine pit with provided safety gear and try basic gem panning under supervision.
• 2.30 pm - Savor a traditional Sri Lankan lunch of rice, curry, and local vegetables at the mine or a nearby village home. Chat with miners about their culture and experiences.
• 3.30 pm - Visit a local lapidary workshop where skilled craftsmen cut and polish gemstones. Under expert guidance, you can try polishing a small stone yourself.
• 5.00 pm - Return to Nivithigala Town, recap the day’s experiences, and receive a small souvenir before concluding the tour.

Note:

• Guests are requested to come in comfortable clothing and closed shoes (ideal for the mine visit).
• Sun protection is advised (Sunscreen / Hats etc).
• When negotiating prices at the market it is best to do it respectfully and with guidance.
• Most transactions are based on trust and may not involve receipts, so be well informed.
• Photography is allowed, but always ask permission before taking close-up pictures of individuals or gems.