Several hours can easily be spent at this historic covered market, with over 2000 stalls selling everything from gold and diamond jewellery to tattoos. It also offers the largest selection of Myanmar handicrafts and souvenirs you’ll find in one location and is a good place to find tailors.
Sometimes called by its old British name, Scott Market, this is an ideal place to pick up some nice slippers, convenient for all the on-and-off demanded by paya protocol, and a longyi (sarong-style lower garment); U Maung Maung has a good selection ranging from ones made of cotton (from K4000) to silk mix (from K9500) and best-quality silk (K30,000). Also look out for Myanmar Yanant Textile selling hand-woven and naturally dyed cotton from Meikhtila made into traditional clothes and accessories such as scarves, caps and bags.
At the rear northwest corner England Vision Optical has good-value prescription glasses in a multitude of frames.
Upstairs in the market's southeast Yo Ya May and Chin Chili are both excellent for hill-tribe textiles including the colourful works of Chin State, such as blankets and shawls embroidered with scenes of village life. Also in this section, Heritage Gallery offers a good selection of authentic and reproduction antiques and retro items with an emphasis on lacquerware. There are some local-interest books, too.
By the central entrance is the art gallery Taw Win with a wide range of colourful, locally produced art, and a branch of the retro-themed fashion and homeware accessories brand Yangoods.
There are plenty of places in the centre of the market to grab a drink and snack including juice vendors and tea and coffee shops.