"අලුත්ම අලුත්ම රත්න | Always new gems"
About:
Ratnapura, Sri Lanka, known as the "City of Gems," has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It was a significant trading post in the ancient world, renowned for its abundance of gemstones. The city has been influenced by various cultures and religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam, due to its strategic location. In the colonial era, it was under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. Today, Ratnapura remains a major hub for gem mining and trading, and is also known for its tea and rubber plantations.
When to visit:
Ratnapura, located in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical rainforest climate characterized by high humidity and abundant rainfall throughout the year. The best time to visit Ratnapura is during the dry season, which typically occurs from December to March. During this period, the weather is relatively dry and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city's famous gem mines and lush natural surroundings. Visitors are advised to avoid the monsoon season from May to September, as heavy rainfall can disrupt outdoor activities and sightseeing.
When to avoid:
Ratnapura, a city in Sri Lanka renowned for its gem mining industry, experiences a monsoon season from May to September. This period is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity, making it the least favorable time to visit for holidaymakers seeking outdoor activities. Flooding and landslides are also common during this time, posing potential risks to travelers. It is advisable to avoid traveling to Ratnapura during the monsoon season and consider visiting during the drier months of December to April for a more enjoyable holiday experience.
Monsoon Season (May–September)
Ratnapura, Sri Lanka experiences its wettest season from May to August, due to the southwest monsoon. Daily temperatures average around 30°C, but can drop to 24°C. Rainfall is heavy, often exceeding 300mm per month, with frequent thunderstorms. Sunlight is limited, with overcast skies being the norm. An average day for a visitor might involve navigating through intermittent rain showers, with few opportunities for sunbathing. However, the lush, rain-drenched landscape offers a unique beauty. Indoor activities and exploration of local markets are recommended during this season.
Monsoon Season (May–September)
Ratnapura, Sri Lanka experiences its warmest part of the year from March to May. During this period, the average high temperatures hover around 31-33 degrees Celsius (88-91 degrees Fahrenheit) while the lows are typically around 24-25 degrees Celsius (75-77 degrees Fahrenheit).
Rainfall is relatively low in these months compared to the rest of the year, averaging around 150-200mm per month. However, occasional showers can be expected, usually in the late afternoons or evenings.
The sunlight is abundant during this period, with an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. The humidity is high, typically around 70-80%, which can make the heat feel more intense. Cloudiness varies, but clear or partly cloudy days are more common, especially in the mornings.
For a visitor, a typical day in Ratnapura during this season would start with warm and sunny mornings, perfect for exploring the city's attractions. As the day progresses, the heat and humidity increase, making it feel hot and sticky. It may be a good idea to retreat indoors during the hottest part of the day. Late afternoons might bring some relief in the form of rain showers, after which the evenings can be pleasantly warm.
Language:
In Ratnapura, the most commonly spoken language is Sinhala. This is the mother tongue of the Sinhalese people, who make up the largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka. In addition to Sinhala, Tamil is also spoken by the local Tamil community. English is used in governmental and business settings, and is understood by a portion of the population.