Mani Sithu Market in Nyaung-U

NYAUNG-U, Myanmar (Burma) – Mani Sithu Market is Nyaung-U’s main market in the middle of town and offers food and daily supplies for sale to the local community.

By David Coleman

Last Updated: May 8, 2023

Filed Under: Myanmar (Burma)

Topics: markets, Nyaung-U Myanmar, Southeast Asia

Myanmar / Burma Travel Update

Since I was there, the situation in Myanmar/Burma has changed a lot. In February 2021, a military coup sparked widespread civil unrest and armed conflict.

The U.S. State Department currently advises: "Do not travel to Burma due to civil unrest and armed conflict." You can find their full travel advisory and security alerts here. And you can find the British Foreign Office's travel advice for Myanmar / Burma here.

From fresh fish to cooking oil to betel nut, the Mani Sithu Market in downtown Nyaung-U is the main local market for the town. It’s a permanent market and set up under a light wooden structure that occupies a large block in the middle of town.

You won’t find much in the way of souvenirs here–it’s primarily a local morning market rather than tourist market.

Photos of Nyaung-U Market

Betele Nut at Nyaung-U Market, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) — Sliced betel nut (areca nut). It’s chewed, often wrapped in betel leaves, similar to chewing tobacco, and has psychoactive ingredients similar to nicotine. It also causes a number of serious diseases and health issues, especially cancers of the mouth and esophagus, as well as maternal health concerns. Photo by David Coleman / Have Camera Will Travel

Dried Fish at Nyaung-U Market, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) — Dried and salted fish. Photo by David Coleman / Have Camera Will Travel

Fresh Produce at Nyaung-U Market, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) — Photo by David Coleman / Have Camera Will Travel

Cane balls for playing Chinlone at Nyaung-U Market, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) — Cane balls for playing Chinlone. It’s also known as caneball and is the traditional national sport of Myanmar (Burma). Photo by David Coleman / Have Camera Will Travel

Traditional Medicines at Nyaung-U Market, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) — Traditional medicines. Photo by David Coleman / Have Camera Will Travel

Fresh Fish at Nyaung-U Market, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) — Photo by David Coleman / Have Camera Will Travel

Marionette Nyaung-U Market, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) — Photo by David Coleman / Have Camera Will Travel

What to Know Before You Go

If you fly into Bagan, you’ll fly into the Nyaung-U Airport (also known as Bagan-Nyaung U / airport code NYU). The train to Bagan also terminates in Nyaung-U.

The Mani Sithu Market isn’t far from the airport and is close to the impressive Golden Shwezigon Pagoda.

Map

Mani Sithu Market FAQs

What is Mani Sithu Market and what can I find there?

Mani Sithu Market is a bustling market in Nyaung-U, Myanmar. Visitors can find a wide range of items at the market, including fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and clothing.

When is the best time to visit Mani Sithu Market?

Mani Sithu Market is busiest in the morning, when locals come to buy groceries and other goods for the day. If you want to experience the market at its liveliest, plan to visit in the morning.

What are some popular souvenirs to buy at Mani Sithu Market?

Mani Sithu Market is a great place to purchase traditional Burmese handicrafts, such as lacquerware and longyis (traditional skirts). Visitors can also find unique and exotic foods to bring home.

What are the opening hours of Mani Sithu Market?

Mani Sithu Market is open every day from early morning until around mid-afternoon. However, vendors may begin to close up shop earlier in the day if they have sold all of their goods.

Where is Mani Sithu Market located and how can I get there?

Mani Sithu Market is located in Nyaung-U, Myanmar, approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) from Nyaung U Airport. The market is easily accessible by taxi, bike, or on foot.