Avissawella | Rathnapura

Avissawella | Introduction

Avissawella, a charming town located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, is often described as the gateway to the central highlands. Known for its scenic beauty and proximity to Colombo, Avissawella has a rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage that offers visitors a unique experience.

Historical Significance

Avissawella's roots stretch deep into Sri Lanka's history, particularly during the colonial period. The town, originally called Seethawakapura, was once a part of the Seethawaka Kingdom (1521–1594). This kingdom was ruled by King Rajasinghe I, a formidable leader known for his resistance against Portuguese colonization. Seethawaka became a stronghold in the defense against foreign invaders, and its legacy as a center of power still echoes in Avissawella's historical narrative.

During this time, Avissawella played a crucial role as a hub for trade and military activity. Its strategic location along the Kelani River made it ideal for defense and commerce, especially as it linked the lowlands with the central highlands. The remains of fortifications and ancient structures near Avissawella are a testament to its significance during the Seethawaka period.

Colonial Influence

Avissawella, like much of Sri Lanka, came under British rule in the 19th century. During this period, it saw rapid development due to its accessibility from Colombo via road and rail. The British developed infrastructure, including the famous Avissawella railway station, as the town became an important stop along the route to the tea plantations in the hill country.

The colonial era left a lasting architectural and cultural imprint on Avissawella, with many British-era buildings still visible today. The introduction of modern agricultural practices, such as rubber and tea plantations, shaped the economic landscape, while the town also became known for its vibrant local markets and trade routes.

Modern Avissawella

Today, Avissawella is a bustling town that harmoniously blends its historical past with modern growth. It is a vital commercial center and serves as the administrative hub for the Seethawaka region. The Seethawaka Industrial Zone has brought new economic opportunities to the area, attracting both local and foreign investments.

Despite its urbanization, Avissawella retains its natural beauty. The surrounding areas are rich with lush greenery, waterfalls, and picturesque landscapes. The Kelani River, which played such an essential role in the town's history, remains a major feature of Avissawella's geography and offers opportunities for recreational activities like rafting and eco-tourism.

Cultural Heritage

Avissawella is also home to diverse communities, where Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim populations coexist, contributing to the town’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Festivals, traditional ceremonies, and local markets provide visitors with a glimpse into the cultural life of the region. Temples, mosques, and churches reflect the town's multi-religious character, where traditions have been preserved for generations.

The Seethawaka Botanical Garden, located just outside Avissawella, is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the region's flora and a tranquil environment for nature lovers. It's a place where visitors can explore the natural beauty that complements the historical and cultural richness of the town.

Connectivity and Accessibility

Avissawella is easily accessible from Colombo, being just 60 kilometers away by road. It serves as a key transit point for travelers heading towards the central highlands, including destinations like Kegalle and Ratnapura. The town’s railway station, part of the Kelani Valley Line, connects Avissawella with the capital and other major towns, making it a convenient stop for both business and leisure travelers.

Conclusion

Avissawella stands as a town where history, culture, and nature converge. From its days as a royal stronghold during the Seethawaka Kingdom to its current role as a vibrant modern town, Avissawella offers a unique journey through Sri Lanka's past and present. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking to experience local culture, Avissawella is a destination worth exploring.


Rathnapura | Introduction

Nestled at the foot of Sri Lanka's central highlands, **Ratnapura** is a town of remarkable historical, cultural, and natural significance. Known as the “City of Gems,” it has been at the heart of Sri Lanka's gem trade for centuries, earning international fame for its wealth of precious stones. Yet, Ratnapura is more than just a hub for gems—it is a town rich in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and home to a vibrant, diverse community.

Prehistoric Civilization

Batadomba Lena is one of Sri Lanka’s most important prehistoric archaeological sites, located near the town of Kuruwita in the Sabaragamuwa Province. Nestled in the tropical jungles and surrounded by lush greenery, Batadomba Lena is a limestone cave that offers valuable insights into the island's ancient human history. This cave is particularly famous for its association with the Balangoda Man, a prehistoric human species, and remains a site of immense cultural, historical, and scientific significance. Batadomba Lena is recognized as a key site in the study of Sri Lanka’s prehistoric period , which dates back over 8,000 years. It was in these caves that archaeologists uncovered evidence of human habitation from the Upper Paleolithic period, making it one of the most important early human sites in South Asia. Excavations at Batadomba Lena have revealed skeletal remains of early humans, often referred to as the Balangoda Man (Homo sapiens balangodensis). These remains provide crucial evidence about the physical characteristics, lifestyles, and survival strategies of Sri Lanka’s ancient inhabitants. The Balangoda Man was known for his distinctive physical features, including a robust build and larger skull size compared to modern humans, offering clues about early human evolution in the region.

Historical Background

Ratnapura’s name translates to “City of Gems” in Sinhala (ratna meaning gem and pura meaning city), highlighting its long-standing reputation as the center of gem mining in Sri Lanka. The area's gem trade dates back over 2,000 years, with ancient texts referencing the town as a source of valuable sapphires, rubies, and other precious stones that were highly sought after by kings and traders from around the world. Sri Lanka's location along the ancient maritime trade routes brought merchants from Rome, Persia, and China to the island, where gems from Ratnapura became coveted treasures.

Ratnapura was also an important region during the Sinhalese kingdoms, particularly under the Kingdom of Kandy. While its primary fame was linked to gem mining, the area was agriculturally productive and culturally rich, providing important connections between the lowland plains and the Kandyan Highlands.

Colonial Era Development

The arrival of European colonizers in Sri Lanka—first the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch and the British—did not diminish Ratnapura's role in the global gem trade. In fact, under British rule in the 19th century, Ratnapura’s gem industry saw significant commercial development. The British improved the infrastructure, building roads and railways to connect Ratnapura to the capital Colombo, making it easier to export gems and other goods. This development also spurred the growth of tea and rubber plantations, which are still integral to the region’s economy today.

British-era architecture and administrative buildings, still standing today, reflect the colonial influence that shaped much of Ratnapura’s modern development. The town’s railway station, part of the scenic line connecting it to Colombo, is one of the many remnants of British infrastructure that continues to serve the area.

Gem Trade and Economy

Ratnapura's global identity is defined by its gem trade, which remains central to the town’s economy. The region is home to some of the world’s finest sapphires, along with rubies, garnets, topaz, and moonstones. Most of the mining is done by traditional methods, with local miners working in small pits dug into the earth, searching for precious stones.

The gems of Ratnapura have found their way into royal collections, including those of the British Crown, and continue to attract gem traders and collectors from all over the world. Visitors to Ratnapura can explore local gem museums, visit working gem mines, and even purchase precious stones directly from local dealers.

Cultural Significance

Ratnapura is more than just a gem mining town; it is also a center of cultural heritage, religious diversity, and community life. The town is home to significant Buddhist temples, such as the Maha Saman Devalaya, which are dedicated to the god Saman, who is believed to protect the people of the region. The temple hosts an annual Perahera (procession) that attracts thousands of devotees from across the country.

The town is also an entry point for pilgrims traveling to Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak), one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred mountains. Devotees of all religions—Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Muslim—make the journey to the summit to honor a sacred footprint believed to belong to the Buddha, the Hindu god Shiva, or Adam, depending on the tradition.

Natural Beauty and Wildlife

Beyond its gems and cultural heritage, Ratnapura is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. It is located near the foothills of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Udawalawe National Park, which are popular among nature enthusiasts. The lush tropical forests, waterfalls like Bopath Ella and Katugas Ella, and scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains make Ratnapura an ideal destination for ecotourism.

Visitors can explore the area’s biodiversity, which includes endemic wildlife such as elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Ratnapura’s natural beauty complements its historical and cultural significance, making it a destination that offers something for every traveler.

Modern Development and Accessibility

Today, Ratnapura remains a thriving town that balances its historical legacy with modern growth. The expansion of infrastructure, including new roads and improved transport links to Colombo and other major cities, has made it more accessible to tourists and businesses alike. The town is a key commercial center for Sri Lanka’s gem, tea, and rubber industries, continuing to play a vital role in the country’s economy. 

Despite the modernization, Ratnapura has managed to preserve its rich cultural traditions and historical landmarks, offering a glimpse into its illustrious past while embracing the opportunities of the present.

Conclusion

Ratnapura is a town that truly embodies the spirit of Sri Lanka—steeped in history, blessed with natural beauty, and renowned for its world-famous gems. From ancient gem mines to sacred temples, from colonial architecture to lush rainforests, Ratnapura offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. Whether you are looking to explore its gem trade, embark on a pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak, or simply enjoy the stunning landscapes, Ratnapura is a destination that will captivate your senses and enrich your understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.



Place To Visit | Activities​


Religious Places


Historical Places


Waterfalls | Lake


Wildlife | National Parks | Forest Reserve | Gardens

Activities