Sri Lanka, Sept. 14 -- Sri Lanka is set to strengthen its position as a global destination for precious gemstones with plans to establish what is being described as the world's first Gem and Jewellery Tourist Village in Passara, Badulla.Sri Lanka Tourism

The proposed tourist village will be developed at Sapuroda, located between the Badulla-Ella tourism corridor and Badulla city, creating a new attraction that combines Sri Lanka's gem heritage with tourism, nature and direct access to the country's renowned gemstone industry.

According to Sanjeewa Moonamalpe, Naula Zone Manager of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, around 40 acres surrounding Sapuroda village have been identified for the project.

The development is expected to o...