population: 0.75 million

extension: 110.7 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Navoiy and interested in visiting museums, a great place to visit is the Museum of Geology and Natural History. It has exhibitions on geology, flora, fauna, and mineral resources of Uzbekistan.

If you're interested in visiting more museums, you may want to check out the Navoi Regional Museum of Local Lore, which showcases the history and culture of the region, or the Museum of Arts and Crafts, which features traditional handicrafts of Uzbekistan.

If you're willing to travel a bit further, Samarkand (about 160 km away from Navoiy) has some outstanding museums such as the State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan and the Afrasiyab Museum of Ancient Samarkand.

Food

Uzbek cuisine is diverse and flavorful, and Navoiy is no exception. Here are some of the most popular and typical dishes to try in Navoiy:

1. Plov: This is Uzbekistan's national dish, and it consists of rice cooked with chunks of meat, onions, carrots, and spices. It's typically served with a side of salad or pickles.

2. Shashlik: A popular grilled dish made from marinated chunks of meat (usually lamb or beef) skewered and cooked over an open flame. It's typically served with bread, salad, and/or vegetables.

3. Lagman: A hearty noodle soup typically made with hand-pulled noodles, chunks of meat, and vegetables like peppers, onions, and tomatoes. It's usually served with a side of bread.

4. Samsa: A savory pastry filled with meat (usually lamb or beef), onions, and spices. It's similar to a samosa or empanada and makes for a great snack or light meal.

5. Manti: Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef) and onions. They're typically served with a side of sour cream or yogurt.

6. Chuchvara: Small boiled dumplings filled with minced meat and onions. They're typically served in a clear broth with a side of sour cream or yogurt.

7. Non: Traditional Uzbek bread, which is round and flat with a crispy crust and soft interior. It's usually served with every meal.

These dishes are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can enjoy in Navoiy and throughout Uzbekistan.

Activities

There are several fun activities that local people enjoy in Navoiy, Uzbekistan. Here are some suggestions:

1. Visit the Zarafshan Reserve: The reserve is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. It's located about 30 km from Navoiy.

2. Go to a bazaar: Bazaars are an important part of local life in Uzbekistan. In Navoiy, you can visit the Central Bazaar, which is bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.

3. Explore the Nuratau Mountains: The Nuratau Mountains are located about 100 km from Navoiy and offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities to observe wildlife.

4. Attend a cultural event: Navoiy hosts cultural events throughout the year, including music and dance performances, food festivals, and traditional sports competitions.

5. Visit a local mosque: Uzbekistan is known for its beautiful mosques, and Navoiy has several worth visiting. The most famous one is the Karmana Mosque, which dates back to the 10th century.