Sanandaj is the capital of Kordestan province, a good base for visits to Palangan and a great place to learn more about Kurdish history and culture with remarkably friendly people. The population of Sanandaj is mainly Kurdish.

Sanandaj is surrounded by Abidar Mountain in the west, Sheikh Maroof Mountain in the north and Serajoldin Mountain in the south. Because of its geographical location the city has severely cold winters.

Men usually are wearing traditional cummerbunds and baggy Kurdish trousers. Yet it’s a modern, noticeably prosperous city.

Sanandaj handicrafts are backgammon sets, chess sets, carpet, a kind of tradition shoes called Kelash and kilim.