galle

Is it worth visiting the moonstone mines in Meetiyagoda?

Asked 5 months agoSeen by 719 travellers

Lennox RA.•1705 rep•1

I am traveling between Hikkaduwa and Ambalangoda. Can I see the actual mining pits and is there a lot of pressure to buy jewelry afterward.

galle

asked 5 months ago

Lennox RA.•1705 rep•1

2 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Meetiyagoda is the only place in the world where blue moonstones are mined. The experience is fascinating because they still use traditional methods with deep pits supported by coconut wood. The tour is usually free and you can watch the sorting and polishing process. There is a showroom at the end, and while the staff are eager to sell, you can politely decline. It is worth it for the unique glimpse into a niche industry.

answered 5 months ago

Sunil W.•22210 rep•1

If you do decide to buy, ask for a certificate of authenticity. The prices are often higher than in the city, but you are seeing the source. The mine is just a short ten minute detour from the main coastal road.

answered 5 months ago

Dilani F.•11420 rep•1

Scam Watch: galle

Fake Gem Export SchemeVerified

Someone befriends you and offers a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to buy gems at wholesale prices and resell them abroad for huge profit. They may show you fake export certificates. The gems are worthless glass or low-quality stones.

👍 45•by virajperera

Beach Restaurant Menu ScamVerified

Restaurants without visible prices. Bill arrives with inflated charges (500 LKR coconut becomes 1500 LKR). "Service charges" added without disclosure.

👍 31•by virajperera

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