A Trip to Nyaung U Market in Myanmar

One thing I always love, whether I’m travelling or I’m back in London, is wandering around markets. You get that feeling that you might just find something new, something special, or something beautifully handmade.

These puppets are a popular form of entertainment in Myanmar.

Aren’t these chillies and cigars amazing?

Nyaung U Market

Nyaung U is a town just 4km from Old Bagan, which is where we stayed during our trip to Burma. After a quick drive on our rented electric scooters, we had a nice lunch at the ironically named “Weather Spoon’s” restaurant before heading to the market.

This isn’t a touristy market – it’s definitely more of a local thing, with spices and (very) smelly fish. That’s what makes it so interesting, you get to see what locals buy rather than just the typical souvenirs. It’s a medley of strong smells and colours.

They had everything there, from cheap blankets and cigars to mixed spices and fresh fish and vegetables. We walked past young girls using old-fashioned sewing machines and ladies mixing spices by hand.

Happy Chris!

Although we didn’t buy anything, it was really interesting to see what an authentic Burmese market is like. If you need a break from visiting pagodas during your stay in Bagan, then a trip to Nyaung U market is a great way to immerse yourself in the local colours and flavours and perhaps even try something new.

What’s the most interesting market you’ve ever been to?