Inlaid into the Shan Hills of north-eastern Myanmar like one of the sparkling rubies that comes from the soils of the surrounding mines, Mogok sits enfolded by green and brown peaks. Don't let the charming mountain setting fool you though; this is no ecotourist destination a la Kalaw and Inle. Rather, this town is famed for its rich mineral deposits, and – more to the point – its precious stones. Miners and prospectors and traders of these valuable materials have been visiting Mogok for decades, and today – with nearly 90% of all the world's rubies sourced from the earth here – there's no sign of that stopping. If you can get past the tight restrictions on foreign visitors, then you can not only explore the bustling miner markets and the gem bazaars (be sure not to buy anything without taking advice from you Mogok tour guide first!), but you can also see its ubiquitous smattering of Buddhist pagodas and and an interesting British war memorial.