Gem Tours

Why Choose a Gem Tour?

Discover Sri Lanka’s gem heritage through authentic mine visits, workshops, and community encounters — a journey into culture, people, and sustainability.

What You’ll Experience in the Gem Tour

• Visit Active Gem Mines
  Step into Ratnapura and Balangoda’s gem fields, guided by local experts, to see firsthand how gems are mined from riverbeds and earth.

• Conversations with Miners & Traders
  Meet the people who dedicate their lives to this craft and hear their stories of tradition, challenge, and resilience.

• Workshops on Cutting & Polishing
  Watch gems transform from rough stones into brilliant jewels, with hands-on insights into lapidary techniques.

• Cultural & Community Encounters
  Discover temples, village centers, and local heritage sites that frame the gem trade within Sri Lanka’s broader culture.

• Optional Experiences
  Enhance your journey with add-ons like a jewelry design class, gem market walk-through, or river trekking adventures.

Learning Outcomes

Our Gem Tours is also an educational experience.

Gem Heritage & History

Learn how Sri Lanka’s gems shaped trade along the Silk Road and why Ratnapura is known as the “City of Gems.”

Ethical Sourcing & Sustainability

Understand the modern challenges of mining, including fair trade, community impact, and environmental responsibility.

See how gem livelihoods tie into daily life, from village crafts to temple offerings, creating a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s heritage.

Cultural Connections

Practical Information

• Duration: 5–7 days (flexible programmes available)

• Accommodation: Charming 3-star guesthouses or boutique 4-star hotels with modern amenities, en-suite bathrooms, and warm hospitality

• Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• Best Season: Year-round (sun/rain protection recommended for mine visits)

Pricing

USD 1000 upwards

Special Rates for agents & groups

Customer reviews

I expected to see gemstones, but I ended up learning about history, culture, and sustainability. The workshops and village visits made this a journey I’ll never forget.

Fredrik Berg

The gem tour was unlike anything I’ve done before. Meeting miners in Ratnapura gave me a real appreciation for the people behind the stones. A truly authentic experience.

Emily Carter

★★★★★

★★★★★

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior knowledge about gems?

No. The tour is designed for curious travelers of all levels.

What should I pack?

Enclosed shoes for mine visits, sun hat, rain jacket, and casual clothing.

Are mine visits safe?

Yes. We only work with licensed operators and provide guidance on safety throughout.

Is this suitable for families or students?

Absolutely. The tour works well for small groups, learning programmes, and families with older children.

Can I buy gems during the tour?

Can I buy gems during the tour?

What makes this tour different from a normal gem shopping trip?

Unlike standard tours, this journey focuses on heritage, sustainability, and people — giving you authentic access to mines, workshops, and communities.

The Gem Tour of Sri Lanka is more than sightseeing — it’s a chance to walk alongside miners, artisans, and communities who keep this heritage alive. You’ll leave not just with knowledge of gems, but with a deeper connection to the culture and people behind them.