population: 0.15 million

extension: 1,373 square kilometers

Museums

Great! If you're interested in museums while in Mahabad, you should definitely check out the Mahabad Museum. It's a small but interesting museum that displays local artifacts and historical items related to the Kurdish culture and the city's history.

If you're looking for other similar museums nearby, you might want to consider the Sanandaj Museum of Natural History and Anthropology or the Urmia Museum of Anthropology. Both are within driving distance and offer fascinating exhibits on regional history and culture.

Food

In Mahabad, there are several delicious dishes that locals love to eat. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes in the area:

1. Dandeh Kabab: This is a grilled lamb or beef kebab dish that is marinated in a flavorful mix of spices. It's usually served with bread, grilled tomatoes, and onions.

2. Kabab Koobideh: Another type of kebab which is made from ground lamb or beef mixed with onions and spices, skewered and char-grilled to perfection. Kabab Koobideh is typically served with rice and grilled tomatoes.

3. Ash Reshte: A hearty soup that is made with noodles, beans, chickpeas, herbs, and sometimes meat. It's a traditional Persian dish that is perfect for cold days.

4. Tadeeg: A crispy, golden crust that forms at the bottom of the pot when making rice. The crust is then scraped off and served as a side dish or snack, often with yogurt or stew.

5. Ghormeh Sabzi: A flavorful stew made with herbs, kidney beans, and meat (usually lamb or beef). It's typically served with rice and is a staple in Iranian cuisine.

6. Fesenjan: A rich and savory stew made with pomegranate molasses and walnuts, usually served with chicken or lamb. It has a sweet and sour taste that is unique and delicious.

These are just a few of the many amazing dishes you can try while in Mahabad. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Activities

Sure! Mahabad is a city with rich Kurdish culture and there are many activities that locals enjoy. Here are some suggestions:

1. Visit the local bazaar: The Mahabad Bazaar is a great place to experience the local culture, try traditional foods, and pick up souvenirs.

2. Enjoy the nature: Mahabad is surrounded by beautiful mountains and nearby lakes such as Lake Zarivar. Locals enjoy hiking, picnicking, and boating in these areas.

3. Attend a local festival: There are several festivals celebrated throughout the year in Mahabad, such as Newroz (Kurdish New Year), Nowruz (Persian New Year), and Tirgan (an ancient Iranian festival celebrating water).

4. Learn about Kurdish culture: You can visit the Kurdish Culture House in Mahabad to learn more about Kurdish music, dance, and art.

5. Visit historical sites: There are several historical sites in Mahabad, such as the Quri Qaleh Castle and the Tomb of Sheykh Ahmad-e Jami.