Discover India’s extraordinary blend of culture, spirituality, and Jewish heritage on this inspirational journey through Mumbai, Cochin, Jaipur, Agra, and Delhi. With insight and presence of Rabbi Alexander Davis, the journey will be enriched with moments of Jewish learning, reflection, and spiritual connection, inviting participants to find deeper meaning in the people, places, and traditions they encounter along the way. Visit centuries-old synagogues and restored Jewish sites in Kerala, celebrate Shabbat with the local community in Mumbai, and learn about meaningful grassroots projects supported by GPM. Along the way, take in India’s vibrant markets, rich artistic traditions, and magnificent architectural treasures—including Jaipur’s Amber Fort, Agra’s breathtaking Taj Mahal, and Delhi’s Mughal masterpieces. With expert guidance, memorable local encounters, and thoughtfully curated experiences, this program offers a rare opportunity to connect with India’s past and present through a uniquely Jewish lens. We will visit sites supported by JDC, the Minneapolis Jewish Federation supports the work of JDC in India and worldwide. (JDC is the leading global Jewish humanitarian organization.)

Monday, 11 Jan 2027 – Mumbai (Arrival)

• Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the hotel.

• Overnight: Taj President Hotel, Mumbai.

Meals: D

Tuesday, 12 Jan 2027 – Mumbai → Cochin

• Fly to Cochin (Kochi). Meet on arrival and transfer to the hotel.

• See the iconic Chinese fishing nets, then stroll Jew Street to the exquisite Paradesi Synagogue (c. 1568) in Mattancherry.

• Explore antique shops, spice markets, and the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace).

• Overnight: Casino Hotel, Cochin.

Meals: B, L & D

Wednesday, 13 Jan 2027 – Cochin

• Visit the Chennamangalam Synagogue & museum and the Parur Synagogue, both part of Kerala’s restored Jewish heritage.

• Visit the Ernakulam synagogue, a hidden gem tucked behind an aquarium and garden shop.

• Evening Kathakali dance-drama performance.

• Overnight: Cochin.

Meals: B, L & D

Thursday, 14 Jan 2027 – Cochin → Mumbai

• Transfer to the airport, fly to Mumbai, and check in at the hotel.

• Flight departs Cochin at 10:35 am; arrives Mumbai at 12:45 pm. 

• Visit three prominent Jewish sites:

  • Knesseth Eliyahoo Synagogue, known for its striking blue exterior and ornate interiors.

  • Magen David Synagogue, a landmark with a distinctive red-brick façade.

  • Tiphereth Israel Synagogue, a center of worship and community life.

• Visit Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest outdoor laundry.

• Overnight: Mumbai.

Meals: B, L & D

Friday, 15 Jan 2027 – Mumbai (Shabbat Eve)

• Journey to Alibaug: From Ancient Legends to Culinary Delights.

• Depart by boat to Alibaug.

• Rickshaw ride to Bene Israeli landing place and Jewish heritage sites.

• Lunch at Moshe Shek’s farm.

• Return to Mumbai by boat

• In the evening, attend Shabbat services and enjoy a kosher dinner with the local community.

• Overnight: Mumbai.

Meals: B, L & D

Saturday, 16 Jan 2027 – Mumbai (Shabbat)

• Walk to Knesseth Eliyahoo Synagogue for Shabbat services and lunch.

• Take a heritage walk featuring:

  • The David Sassoon Library.

  • The Prince of Wales Museum (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya), which houses art, archaeology, and natural history collections.

• Overnight: Mumbai.

Meals: B, L & D

Sunday, 17 Jan 2027 – Mumbai → Jaipur

• Visit Kalwa Slums & GPM projects:

  • Framing with Kenneth D’Souza.

  • Observe classes at Love2Learn School.

  • Visit Shravan Health Center, Dental Clinic, Water Facility, and Sundara Soap-Making Project.

• Explore the Marketplace by women’s collective.

• Debrief with GPM staff.

• Fly to Jaipur and transfer to the hotel.

• Overnight: Golden Tulip Hotel, Jaipur.

Meals: B, L & D

Monday, 18 Jan 2027 – Jaipur

• Visit the majestic Amber Fort, a stunning example of Rajput architecture blending Hindu and Mughal styles.

• Explore its massive gates, ramparts, courtyards, and exquisite frescoes.

• Explore:

  • City Palace, a royal residence and museum.

  • Jantar Mantar Observatory (UNESCO), one of the largest astronomical observatories in India.

• Photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).

• Overnight: Jaipur.

Meals: B, L & D

Tuesday, 19 Jan 2027 – Jaipur → Agra

• Drive to Agra.

• Visit the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Admire its stunning white marble, inlay work, and serene gardens.

• Overnight: Grand Mercure Hotel, Agra.

Meals: B, L & D

Wednesday, 20 Jan 2027 – Agra → Delhi

• Explore Agra Fort (UNESCO World Heritage), with its palaces, halls, and Mughal architecture.

• Drive to Delhi and check in.

• Overnight: The Lalit Hotel, Delhi.

Meals: B, L & D

Thursday, 21 Jan 2027 – Delhi (Tour) → Departure

• Thursday, 21 Jan 2027 – Delhi (Tour) → Departure

  • Check-out at 12:00 pm.

  • Explore the Qutub Minar and Lotus Temple.

  • Evening transfer to the airport for onward departure.

  Meals: B, L & D