The market in Taunggyi is one of the most ethnically diverse and visually striking in Myanmar. Every day, but particularly on the five-day rotating market cycle, ethnic minority groups from across Shan State converge here to trade: Pa-O, Palaung, Danu, Intha, Shan, and others, each identifiable by their distinctive clothing. The morning is the best time to visit — by midday the crowd thins and the produce stalls begin to pack up.
The market covers a large area of covered stalls and surrounding streets. Look for handwoven fabrics, lacquerware from Inle Lake workshops, dried mushrooms and tea from the hills, and the distinctive Shan longyis with their checked patterns. The cheroot section — rows of women hand-rolling the large green cigars — is particularly photogenic. A cup of Shan-style tea, strong and sweetened with condensed milk, costs almost nothing and is the right fuel for a morning in the market.
Prices are generally fair; this is not a tourist market but a working commercial hub. Basic bargaining is appropriate for textiles and handicrafts but not for food.