population: 2.046 million

extension: 46.19 square kilometers

Museums

Great! If you are in Karaj and interested in visiting museums, I recommend checking out the Karaj Museum of Anthropology. It has a collection of artifacts that showcase the history and culture of the region. Another museum worth visiting is the Reza Abbasi Museum in Tehran, about an hour's drive from Karaj, which displays a range of Iranian art and artifacts.

Food

Karaj, like much of Iran, offers a wide range of delicious and savory dishes. Some of the most popular and typical dishes in Karaj and the surrounding region include:

1. Chelo kebab: Grilled meat (usually lamb or chicken) served with rice, seasoned with saffron and accompanied by grilled tomatoes.

2. Ghormeh Sabzi: A stew made with herbs, vegetables, lamb or beef and kidney beans, usually served with rice.

3. Zereshk Polo: Rice cooked with barberries, saffron, and either chicken or lamb.

4. Tahchin: A layered rice dish made with chicken or meat, yogurt, eggs, and saffron.

5. Abgousht: A hearty soup-like dish made with lamb, chickpeas, beans, potatoes, and other vegetables.

6. Ash Reshteh: A thick soup made with noodles, beans, vegetables, and herbs, often served with kashk (a type of yogurt).

7. Fesenjan: A stew made with pomegranate paste, walnuts, and either chicken or meat, usually served with rice.

I hope you enjoy trying some of these delicious dishes during your stay in Karaj!

Activities

Certainly! There are several fun activities that locals enjoy in Karaj. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Karaj Dam: The Karaj Dam is a popular destination for locals, especially during the summer months. You can take a picnic and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Explore the Chalous Road: Chalous Road is a scenic drive that runs from Karaj to the Caspian Sea through the Alborz Mountains. It's a favorite among locals for weekend getaways and offers stunning scenery.

3. Hiking in the Alborz Mountains: The nearby Alborz Mountains offer numerous hiking trails with beautiful mountain views and fresh air.

4. Shopping at Karaj Bazaar: Karaj Bazaar is one of the largest markets in Iran and offers a wide variety of goods, including traditional handicrafts, spices, and clothing.

5. Relaxing in Amir Kabir Park: Amir Kabir Park is a large park in the heart of Karaj, with a lake, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's a great place to relax and unwind.