City Ratnapura Location 101km from Colombo Known for Sri Lanka’s “City of gems” and the center of its gem mine industry. The gems found include sapphire, ruby, cat’s eye, alexandrite, topaz, amethyst, aquamarine, tourmaline, garnet and zircon. Existing since The history of Ratnapura extends back into the mists of times, in a haze of fantasy and reality. King Solomon is said to have wooed the Queen of Sheba with the help of a magnificent ruby from Ratnapura. A legendary blue sapphire called “Blue Belle” which is glittering on the British Crown was extracted from one of the Ratnapura mines. Places of interest Visits to gem mines are allowed, but the gem collections can be seen at the National Museum, and Gemological Museum. Bordered by tea estates and rubber plantations. Ratnapura is also famous for the temple Pothgul Vihare (1st century B.C.) Remarks A definite stop for any gem enthusiast.