Street Scams in Mandalay, Myanmar
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Mandalay — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Lombok, Palawan, and Bali.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
4
Street Scams Scams
16
Total in Mandalay
How it works
Mandalay is a gemstone trading hub and street vendors sell synthetic or low-grade stones as premium rubies, sapphires, or jade to tourists at enormous markups.
How it works
Mandalay is a gemstone trading hub and street vendors near the jade market sell synthetic or low-grade stones as premium rubies, sapphires, or jade to tourists at enormous markups. The stones look authentic to untrained eyes.
How it works
Traditional Mandalay marionette workshops invite tourists to watch demonstrations, which transitions into a high-pressure retail environment where leaving without purchasing is made socially uncomfortable.
How it works
Traditional Mandalay marionette workshops invite tourists to watch demonstrations, which transitions into a high-pressure retail environment where leaving without purchasing is made socially uncomfortable by staff.
See all scams in Mandalay
16 total warnings across all categories