Discover Jewish India
Duration: 10 nights/11 days
December 2024
Embark on an immersive exploration of India’s Jewish heritage, uncovering historic synagogues, architectural wonders, and vibrant communities. Enjoy personalized attention and insider insights with a limited group size and experienced Jewish English-speaking guide. The trip is highly recommended by previous participants for its enriching cultural experiences.
- Limited number of participants
- Get an Insider’s perspective
- Impeccable services
- Individual attention
- Highly recommended by our customers
- Escorted by experienced Jewish English speaking guide
- An enjoyable educational experience
- Visit historic synagogues, meet with local Jewish communities, and learn about their traditions and history.
- Explore iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Amer Fort, and Mumbai's bustling markets.
- Immerse yourself in India's vibrant culture with traditional dance performances, culinary demonstrations, and unique experiences like a backwater boat tour.
- 10 nights accommodation in 5* hotels.
- Daily breakfast and 9 Veg. Lunch.
- 2 Veg. dinners including dinner on Shabbat.
- Accompanied English speaking Jewish Escort.
- Airport transfers, intercity travel and tours.
- 3 Internal flights (Jaipur - Mumbai, Mumbai - Cochin and Cochin - Mumbai) in coach class.
- Cooking demonstration.
- Monument Entry fees.
- Mineral water bottles.
- A lush backwater tour.
- Elephant ride in Jaipur.
- Kathalkali dance drama.
- Specialized talks about Jewish India.
- All taxes included.
Joshua Shapurkar
Joshua Shapurkar is a native of Mumbai and a member of the Bene Israel community. He has been a professional guide for more than 30 years.
Full of knowledge and warmth, he has a special way of leading a group and sharing information. His passion for his country and his community shine through.
Joshua’s attention to detail and love for his Jewish heritage bring to life the history of the Jewish people of India. During his career as a guide he has guided and managed important delegations for JFNA, AJC and AJDC
Day 1: Sunday - Delhi
- Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.
Day 2: Monday - Delhi
- Begin your journey with a guided tour of Old Delhi, including visits to Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, and a rickshaw ride through bustling markets.
- Explore New Delhi’s architectural marvels, such as India Gate and the President’s House.
- Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience the serene ambiance of a Sikh Temple.
- Overnight stay in Delhi.
Day 3: Tuesday - Delhi / Agra
- Journey to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
- Explore this architectural masterpiece built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife.
- Discover Agra’s exquisite marble crafts and shop for souvenirs.
- Overnight stay in Agra.
Day 4: Wednesday - Agra / Jaipur
- Depart for Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, known as the “Pink City.”
- En route, visit Agra’s Red Fort and Kohinoor Museum, showcasing an impressive tapestry collection.
- Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Day 5: Thursday - Jaipur
- Embark on a royal adventure at the Amber Fort, an ancient citadel with stunning architecture.
- Enjoy an elephant ride to the fort entrance and marvel at its grandeur.
- Visit the City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, and explore the Jantar Mantar observatory.
- Take time to shop for textiles, jewelry, and carpets in Jaipur’s bustling markets.
- In the evening, savor a cooking demonstration followed by a homely dinner.
- Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Day 6: Friday - Jaipur / Mumbai
- Fly to Mumbai, the vibrant metropolis known as the “City of Dreams.”
- Explore Mumbai’s Jewish heritage with visits to Magen David and Tipheret Israel synagogues, reflecting the city’s diverse Jewish communities.
- Attend Shabbat services and indulge in a sumptuous kosher Baghdadi dinner with the local community.
- Overnight stay in Mumbai.
Day 7: Saturday - Mumbai
- Begin the day with Shabbat services at Kenesseth Eliyahu Synagogue, followed by a gourmet kosher feast.
- After lunch, embark on an optional heritage walk featuring the David Sassoon Library and Prince of Wales Museum, showcasing art, archaeology, and natural history collections.
- Overnight stay in Mumbai.
Day 8: Sunday - Mumbai / Cochin
- Fly to Cochin, a historic port city on the southwestern coast of India.
- Explore Cochin’s Jewish heritage with visits to Chennamangalam and Parur Synagogues, showcasing the rich history of Kerala’s Jewish communities.
- Experience the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters on a scenic boat tour.
- Overnight stay in Cochin.
Day 9: Monday - Cochin
- Discover Cochin’s cultural treasures, including the iconic Chinese fishing nets and the historic Saint Francis Church, the final resting place of explorer Vasco da Gama.
- Wander through Jew Street to the exquisite Paradesi Synagogue in Mattancherry, adorned with stunning chandeliers and hand-painted tiles.
- Visit the hidden gem of Ernakulam Synagogue, tucked behind an aquarium and garden shop.
- Experience the mesmerizing Kathakali dance drama, a traditional art form of Kerala.
- Overnight stay in Cochin.
Day 10: Tuesday - Cochin / Mumbai
- Return to Mumbai and explore its bustling markets, including the vibrant Crawford Market.
- Participate in a Hindu religious ceremony at a local temple.
- Overnight stay in Mumbai.
Day 11: Wednesday - Mumbai
- Bid farewell to India as you transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Varanasi, one of the holiest cities of Hindus, has a fascinating array of shrines, temples and palaces rising in several tiers from the water’s edge. It is also a city of fairs and festivals, celebrating about 400 of them during the year. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the oldest living cities in the World.
Explore Indian history and culture and delve into local life in the world’s most populous democracy. You will visit world-renowned majestic Forts and Royal palaces. Enjoy village safari and Leopard Safari. Taste the authentic flavor of Rajasthani royalty and hospitality at 16th century old Baoli, also known as Step well.