Mogok is a small place in Myanmar and can be easily explored within a day.
Cinema Hall Market
As the epicentre of the gem trade in Myanmar, Mogok has many marketplaces for gems. The early-morning market is known as the Cinema Hall Market, as it is outside the old cinema, and involves local dealers pushing rough uncut stones. In the afternoon, the action shifts to the Paik Swae market, where the high-rollers hang out.
British War Cemetery
The British War Cemetery at Ywar Thar Yar, about 12 miles from Mogok, is a stark reminder of the remote battle sites that once dotted the world during the days of the British Empire. The cemetery is rather neglected these days, but is a very atmospheric spot in the Shan Hills. It contains the dead from the Third Anglo-Burmese War of 1886–93.
Phaung Daw U Paya
The holiest of the many temples dotting the Mogok skyline, Phaung Daw U Paya has a dais that conceals some ornate pedestals encrusted with priceless gems, which are on display in a glass case behind the seated buddha. Once a year in March, they are brought out for a spring equinox festival, which attracts thousands of the faithful.
Pada Myar Zeidy
Forget the golden spire of this temple – the real reason to come up here is the classic calendar view over Mogok and its central lake, created from the remnants of an abandoned open-pit ruby mine from the colonial period.
Paik Swae
At the afternoon market, there are tables for buyers and sellers, while brokers mingle in between trying to establish a sale. It's very interesting to witness the scene even if you are not in the market for a purchase.
King Chaung Waterfall
This pretty waterfall has been turned into a bit of a circus with the establishment of an amusement park below. Visitors can choose from bumper cars, a vomit-inducing 5-D ride and other arcade games or head straight to the waterfall instead.
Night Market
This is a bit of a social hub for the Mogok community after dark. Steam and smoke rises into the cooling air and locals chow down on barbecue, noodles, dim sum and more.
