Sabaragamuwa Province

Districts and administration

• Ratnapura District — the provincial capital and the region long associated with gem mining; the town of Ratnapura is often called the "City of Gems".
• Kegalle District — containing low to mid‑elevation lands where rubber and tea cultivation are important to the local economy.

The province is governed within Sri Lanka's provincial council system and forms a recognizable administrative and cultural unit. For an overview of the province and its role in the national framework see Sabaragamuwa-related resources.

Geographically the province includes rolling hills, river valleys and sections of rainforest. It receives substantial seasonal and orographic rainfall, which supports both natural forests and commercial plantations. Rivers draining the highlands provide water resources important for irrigation and local livelihoods.

Economically the province is best known for small‑scale gem mining, especially around Ratnapura, alongside plantation crops such as rubber and tea. These activities coexist with forestry, small industries and a growing tourism sector that highlights waterfalls, scenic drives and wildlife in remaining forest patches.

Historically the area has been shaped by colonial-era plantation development and later administrative reforms that created the modern provincial councils. Today Sabaragamuwa is notable for its natural wealth, a mix of rural livelihoods, and challenges and opportunities around sustainable management of gems, forests and agricultural land.

Visitors and researchers often focus on the province for its gem markets, plantation landscapes and riverine scenery. Conservation and community development initiatives are increasingly important as local authorities balance economic use with protection of biodiversity and water resources.