Sabaragamuwa
· LK

Sabaragamuwa

Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka

Escape to Enchanting Sabaragamuwa: Sri Lanka's Emerald Heart Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush tea plantations, Sabaragamuwa Province is a captivating destination in the heart of Sri Lanka. Far from the beaten path, …

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Sabaragamuwa.

Top Hotels in Sabaragamuwa

Top Flights to Sabaragamuwa

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Sabaragamuwa.

Tours

Exploration of the Udawalawe National Park

A must-visit park famous for Elephant sightseeing and rich biodiversity. It's a paradise for outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts.

Visit to Bopath Ella Falls

A beautiful waterfall renowned for its scenic beauty and natural pool, attracting visitors looking to relax and unwind.

Shopping

Shopping in Ratnapura Gem Market

Famous for a wide variety of precious gemstones, offering an authentic Sri Lankan gemstone shopping experience.

Outdoor

Hiking at Adam's Peak

A spiritual pilgrimage and challenging hike offering breathtaking sunrise views from the summit.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Sabaragamuwa.

Currency
₨ | LKR | Sri Lankan Rupee
Population
Approximately 2.0 million.
Languages
Sinhala, Sinhala, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Sabaragamuwa.

What people love

Sabaragamuwa is a province in Sri Lanka that offers various attractions and experiences for travelers. Here are some of the pros of visiting Sabaragamuwa:

  1. Natural Beauty: Sabaragamuwa is known for its lush landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls. The province is home to part of the central highlands, which are recognized for their scenic beauty.

  2. Wildlife and Nature Reserves: The province is close to several national parks and reserves. Udawalawe National Park, known for its elephant population, and the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are accessible from Sabaragamuwa.

  3. Adventure Activities: The region offers opportunities for adventure tourism, including hiking, white-water rafting, and trekking. The Kelani River, flowing through the province, is particularly popular for rafting.

  4. Cultural and Historical Sites: Sabaragamuwa has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples and historical sites to explore, such as the Saman Devalaya in Ratnapura. These sites offer insight into the local culture and history.

  5. Gem Mining: Ratnapura, the capital of Sabaragamuwa Province, is known as the "City of Gems." Visitors can learn about the gem mining industry, visit gem museums, and purchase precious stones.

  6. Local Culture and Traditions: Travelers can experience traditional Sri Lankan culture, including local festivals, cuisine, and handicrafts. The province is known for its vibrant local life and hospitality.

  7. Accessibility: Sabaragamuwa is relatively accessible from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, making it a convenient destination for travelers wanting to explore more of the country beyond the coastal areas.

These features make Sabaragamuwa an attractive destination for travelers interested in nature, adventure, culture, and history.

What to know

Information not available.

Sabaragamuwa is a province located in the south-central region of Sri Lanka, comprising two main districts: Ratnapura and Kegalle. It is known for its diverse geography, rich cultural heritage, and economic contributions, particularly through gem mining and agriculture. Here's a detailed history of Sabaragamuwa, highlighting significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Background

  1. Ancient and Medieval Era:

    • Sabaragamuwa has a long history that dates back to ancient times. It was part of the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka.
    • The area was known for its rich natural resources, particularly precious stones and gems, which have been mined for centuries.
    • The name "Ratnapura" itself means "City of Gems" in Sinhala, indicating the area's historical connection to gem mining.

  2. Kandy Kingdom:

    • During the time of the Kandyan Kingdom, Sabaragamuwa was an important region. It served as a buffer zone between the Kingdom of Kandy and the coastal regions controlled by the Portuguese, Dutch, and later the British.
    • The region was strategically important, and many battles were fought to control it, particularly during the Kandyan Wars against colonial powers.

  3. Colonial Period:

    • Under British colonial rule, Sabaragamuwa, like much of Sri Lanka, underwent significant changes. The British developed plantations, particularly for tea and rubber, which became major economic activities in the province.
    • Infrastructure development, including roads and railways, was undertaken to support the colonial economy.

Significant Historical Figures

  • Ehelepola Maha Adikaram: A significant historical figure associated with Sabaragamuwa. He was a high-ranking official in the Kingdom of Kandy and played a crucial role in the internal politics of the kingdom.
  • Ratnapura Chiefs: Various hereditary chiefs and local leaders who managed the region's affairs throughout history, often negotiating with colonial powers and the central kingdom.

Important Landmarks

  1. Adam's Peak (Sri Pada):

    • A sacred mountain located in the Ratnapura District. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. The mountain is famed for the "sacred footprint," which is believed to be that of the Buddha, Shiva, or Adam, depending on religious tradition.

  2. Bopath Ella Waterfall:

    • Located near Kuruwita in the Ratnapura District, this waterfall is a popular tourist attraction due to its unique shape resembling a leaf of the Bo tree.

  3. Gem Mines of Ratnapura:

    • The gem mines are a crucial economic and cultural aspect of the region, attracting gem traders from around the world.

  4. Udawalawe National Park:

    • Partially located in the Sabaragamuwa Province, this park is a significant wildlife sanctuary known for its large elephant population.

  5. Kitulgala:

    • Known for its beautiful landscape and as a filming location for the movie "The Bridge on the River Kwai." It is also a popular spot for white-water rafting.

Cultural Aspects

  • The region is known for its traditional dances and rituals, which are an integral part of the local culture.
  • The Sabaragamuwa Province hosts various festivals and religious events that reflect its diverse cultural heritage.

Sabaragamuwa's rich history is characterized by its strategic importance, economic activities, and cultural diversity, making it a significant region in Sri Lanka's past and present.