area, especially in paddy fields on lower ground. The mines are generally around to deep. Portable hand operating tools used for the mining process, include shovels, picks, pans (specially made from bamboo) and cradles. Once the soil is extracted from the mine, water is used to wash the dirt and mud away using pans and any gemstones, which heavier than normal stones, will remain at the bottom of the pan. Local heroes Ehelepola Nilame In the time of the Last king of Sri Lanka "Sri Vikrama Rajasinha", Ehelepola Nilame was sent to Sabaragamuwa (Ratnapura) as "Disawe" or local governor of Sabaragamuwa. He built a small reservoir and water canal to support local rice farms. The works of this hero are still visible around the Ratnapura area and local people benefiting from his works even today. His house which is situated in the middle of Ratnapura city is now being used as the national museum building. The portrayal of Ehelepola as a hero is quite controversial. Once he conspired with British and betrayed the Kandy king. The King ordered the execution of his family unless Ehelepola surrendered to the king (according to the prevailing laws). He became a coward and he let king execute his whole family in Kandy. His younger son became a child hero by bravely facing death by guillotine, while his elder brother was hiding behind his mother (who was drowned). Maps Detailed map of Ratnapura and Sri Lanka References External links Statistics of 2001 Census of Sri Lanka Catholic Diocese of Ratnapura Statistics of 2001 Census of Sri Lanka Department of elections Sri Lanka Weather Forecast Ratnapura Maha Saman Devale, Ratnapura The Portuguese Cultural Imprint on Sri Lanka The Portuguese in Sri Lanka (1505-1658) Ilakaka, Madagascar, Geological data and history, sapphire rush Ratnapura to Adam's Peak Gem Market Ratnapura Provincial capitals in Sri Lanka Jewellery districts Populated places in Sabaragamuwa Province