Rathnapura National Museum — Attraction in Sabaragamuwa Province

Ehelapola Maha Nilame was a courtier of the Kingdom of Kandy. He was the 1st Adigar (Maha Adikaram) from 1811 to 1814 under the reign King Sri Wikrama Rajasinha. Following the brutal execution of his entire family by the King, he aided the British to finally launch an successful invasion of the Kandy Kingdom and was instrumental in the Kandyan Convention that followed which led to the annexed the Kandy Kingdom to the British.

The walawwa (mansion) of Ehelapola Maha Adikaram used as the official residence when he was sent to Ratnapura to collect taxes has been now converted in to a museum and is now known as the Ratnapura National Museum.

The museum which was opened in 13 May 1988 includes exhibits on prehistoric archaeological inventions, natural heritage, geological, anthropological, zoological artifacts and models relating to the Sabaragamuwa Province. The weaponry on display include Sinhala swords of the late medieval era including a sword alleged to have belonged to Ehelepola, and a collection of old guns including a Vickers machine gun used during the First World War. The cooking utensils of the region include a tripod pan with three molds for preparing rice flour cakes known as kiri roti. Traditional Kandyan jewellery includes necklaces, bangles, anklets...

This is the most underrated National Museum in Sri Lanka. If you really want to experience a calm yet worth museum experience this is the ideal place. And most of us I am sure miss this valuable gem in the middle of the city with very easy access eventhough we pass Ratnapura area. Most importantly the museum has digital screens for self exploring the information. The building is the residence of Ehalepola Adhikaram and make sure to visit the rear side as well to see the exact formation of the house. The staff also very friendly and helpful. This place has clean washrooms. I visited on a saturday evening and no other visitors were there except our team. Entrance ticket for locals - Rs. 100

The museum has a dedicated parking lot on the rear side. But I recommend to take the main entrance if you are traveling by a Bike / Car / Van / Coaster bus as there is a parking space at the main entrance side as well.

In addition to the indoor museum there is an outdoor park as well in the premises.

PS : Google maps may mislead directing you on the wrong side of the road. This is on a one way inner circle road hence if you miss the location you will have to go another one way drive to come to...

The Ratnapura National Museum, housed in the historic Ehelepola Walawwa, offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Sabaragamuwa Province. Once the residence of Ehelepola Nilame, a regional officer under King Sri Vikrama Rajasinghe, this site now beautifully preserves the essence of Sri Lanka's past. The exhibits range from prehistoric artifacts to more recent historical items, including a fascinating display of ancient gem mining techniques for which Ratnapura is world-renowned. The museum also features replicas of endemic animals and a lush, well-maintained garden that adds to the experience. As a history enthusiast, I found the blend of regional stories and national significance deeply enriching. A must-visit if you're exploring Sri Lanka’s interior. Tickets are very cheap and it's...