Custom Jewish Heritage India Tour 2015 October 16 28, Days 12 Nights 9 Touring Days

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1 Day 1 - Friday, Oct. 16 Arrival in Mumbai Arrive at Mumbai International Airport where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is at 12 noon. Mumbai, also known as Bombay, is the economic powerhouse of India. It is young, lively and a mixture of many cultures. Mumbai boasts a unique position as the most multi-ethnic and the most populous city of India. The tour starts this afternoon with a visit to the Gateway of India. Later visit the stunning Bhaudaji Lad Museum. The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum (formerly the Victoria and Albert Museum) is the oldest museum in Mumbai, which is built in the style of a synagogue. Today, it is one of the finest contemporary museums in the city. Continue to the architecturally stunning Kenneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue with its beautiful interiors and the David Sassoon Library. Visit the oldest synagogue in Mumbai, the Shaar Harahamim or Gate of Mercy Synagogue, built in 1796 by Samaji Hasaji Divekar, a Bene Israel. From here, we will continue to the Magen David Synagogue, a tall blue building with a Gothic feel that towers over all the other buildings in the area. Tonight enjoy a Shabbat dinner with the local Jewish community. Overnight: Mumbai (D) Day 2 - Saturday, Oct. 17 Mumbai This morning enjoy an hour long ferry ride from Gateway of India to Elephanta Island - this is one of a number of islands in Mumbai Harbor. This island is famous for its cave temples that have been carved out of rock, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, visit the Fort Heritage area, Kala Ghoda Art District and the markets of Mumbai the Kalbadevi bazaars, Zaveri Bazaar (jewelry), Mangaldas Market (cloth). Overnight: Mumbai (B) 1 of 4

2 Day 3 - Sunday, Oct. 18 Mumbai Today, we board a ferry from Gateway of India Jetty for Alibagh a beach town on the Konkan Coast. Upon arrival at Alibagh, we will visit the picturesque Alibagh Synagogue. Visit JDC sponsored welfare and medical programs. (Pending confirmation) During the religious persecutions in Israel in the time of King Antiochus 2,200 years ago, some Jews escaped to India and were shipwrecked off the coast of Bombay. The few survivors came ashore, kept the faith, and lived in interior villages. They were unknown to the Jewish world until they were discovered in the 1700s. They were known as the Bene Israel. Overnight: Mumbai (B) Day 4 - Monday, Oct. 19 Mumbai / Cochin After breakfast and hotel check-out, we will visit the JDC Old Age Home at Thane. Since 1964, JDC has been aiding the Jewish population in India. From helping the elderly and destitute to creating cultural and educational programs for youths and adults, JDC has become an essential part of Jewish life in India. Head to the airport to board flight for Cochin. Kochi, or more familiarly, Cochin is a city of many facets. Cochin's prime location on the west coast, its fine bay and protected harbor made it popular with seafarers and merchant ships who made frequent stops to stock up on spices, coffee and wood en route to the rich markets of Europe and West Asia. Upon arrival in Cochin airport, transfer to your hotel. Overnight: Cochin (B) Day 5 - Tuesday, Oct. 20 Cochin This morning drive to Mattancherry. First, visit the Dutch Palace which was built in 1555 with its elegant coronation hall and magnificent murals. Continue to the Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest in India, (circa 1568), where the caretaker will open the Torah scrolls for Jewish visitors. The flooring consists of 18th century blue Cantonese ceramic tiles, hand painted and each one unique. The Paradesi synagogue site was given to the Jews by one of the most famous of the Maharajas, Bhaskar Ravi Varman ( ) and is located very near his palace and temple in Jew Town, which indicates the importance given by the Raja to the Jewish community. From the synagogue depart to the harbor to view the famous Chinese fishing nets. The cantilevered fishing nets line the entrance to the harbor mouth. Outside of China, such nets are only found here. Overnight: Cochin (B) Day 6 - Wednesday, Oct. 21 Cochin Today, depart Cochin for a full day excursion to Thekkumbhagom Synagogue and Muziris. Also visit the Jewish settlement area in Mala and the Parur Synagogue (Pending confirmation). Muziris is also known as the Jerusalem of the East. The first Jewish settlements in India developed here starting about 961 BC. 2 of 4

3 The charm and splendor of the Mala Jewish community synagogue with its beautiful carvings in a variety of patterns speaks volumes about their artistic skill and culture. According to tradition and available records, Jews have been in Kerala, since at least the beginning of the Common Era. Jews no longer live in Mala because Mala Jews were the first Jewish community to have migrated from Kerala to Israel after the establishment of the State. Overnight: Cochin (B) Day 7 - Thursday, Oct. 22 Cochin / Delhi Early morning transfer to the airport and fly to Delhi. Delhi, the capital of India, is one of the largest and fastest growing cities in the world. It is a bustling city ever growing and adapting to the changes of growth and modernity. The city has a colorful history which is embodied in its monuments, forts and historical places. A visitor can choose to sample the culture of the city in its vibrant markets or to sample the Indian cuisine in its numerous eateries. Delhi has something to offer to everyone. Assistance on arrival at Delhi airport and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon visit the fascinating Old Delhi. Start with a cycle rickshaw ride through Old Delhi. Drive past the Red Fort, the opulent Fort and Palace of the Mughal Empire. Visit Raj Ghat, the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi; and see Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Overnight: Delhi (B) Day 8 - Friday, Oct. 23 Delhi Today, we will start the tour by visiting the Judah Hyam Synagogue and meet with the caretaker. This is a modern synagogue that caters mostly to the needs of businessmen and diplomats in the city. Later visit New Delhi. Designed and built by the British in the 1920's-it's a city of wide boulevards, impressive government buildings, green parks and gardens. You will visit Humayun's Tomb. Its design made a significant contribution to the culture of the garden tomb in India. Continue along the ceremonial avenue, Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House and the Presidential residence. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight: Delhi (B) Day 9 - Saturday, Oct. 24 Delhi / Agra This morning, drive to Agra (approx. 204 kms/ 4 hrs). On arrival, check in to the hotel. Agra, best known for its world famous monument of love, is situated along the banks of the Yamuna River and attracts thousands of visitors every day from all over the world who visit the Taj Mahal, the seventh wonder of the world, built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Afterward visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The buildings within this sprawling fort complex represent the assimilation of different cultures, which was the mark of the Mughal period. 3 of 4

4 Next, walk through Kachhpura Village to Mehtab Bagh - a Mughal era garden located just behind the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River. The walk is conducted by volunteers of an NGO supported by USAID and includes some lesser known Mughal era monuments along the way. Pass by agricultural fields near Mehtab Bagh and enter the ancient village of Kachpura site of Humayun s Mosque. Enjoy a spectacular view of the Taj Mahal at sunset. Overnight: Agra (B) Day 10 - Sunday, Oct. 25 Agra / Jaipur Catch the magic of Taj Mahal at sunrise this morning. As the sun rises, the morning light spreads across the marble and the Taj Mahal seems to glow. During this time, the Taj Mahal changes hues from pink to light yellow to bright white. Later, return to the hotel for breakfast. Check out of the hotel and drive to Jaipur (approx. 235 kms/ 5 hrs). On the way you will visit Fatehpur Sikri the deserted red sandstone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital and mysteriously deserted. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its 'ruins' are still in pristine condition. Check-in to the hotel upon arrival in Jaipur. Jaipur is the capital of the fascinating desert state of Rajasthan, an extraordinary place where the moustaches are the size of broad swords and the turbans look like colorful hot-air balloons. This evening, board the tuk tuk from the hotel to the local bazaar. Enjoy a walking tour among the exotic stalls of the market; mingle and talk with the locals while sampling some of the region s culinary delights. Observe local artisans in their workshops; jewelers and silversmiths, gold and silver foil makers. Rickshaws, cows, bejeweled women, and men with shocking pink turbans pass by as you soak up the spice aromas and marvel at the vibrant street life. Overnight: Jaipur (B) Day 11 - Monday, Oct. 26 Jaipur Today morning, visit Amber Fort, which is known for its artistic style, blending both Hindu Rajput elements. The fort has large ramparts, a series of gates and cobbled paths, and overlooks Maota. Next a real adventure ride the elephants! Enjoy a jeep ride to descend the fort. En route make a photo stop at Hawa Mahal Palace of Winds. Hawa Mahal is a five-story wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes and spires. Later visit Jantar Mantar Observatory that was built in the 17th century by the founder of Jaipur who was a soldier, astronomer, and builder, in addition to being a prince. From Jantar Mantar, continue to the City Palace Museum to view Rajasthani and Mughal Art. This evening, enjoy a home-hosted dinner and learn about daily life inside the old city from your local hosts. Overnight: Jaipur (B, D) 4 of 4

5 Day 12 - Tuesday, Oct. 27 Jaipur / Delhi After breakfast drive to Delhi (260 kms/ 5 hrs). On arrival in Delhi check-in at the hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight: Delhi (B) Day 13 - Wednesday, Oct. 28 Departure After breakfast transfer to the international airport to board your flight back home. Have a nice trip! (B) (B) Breakfast (D) Dinner The exact order of sightseeing each day is subject to change due to weather and operational conditions. TOUR INCLUDES: Accommodation in hotels as indicated in the itinerary All Breakfasts & Dinners as shown in the itinerary (Meals are NOT kosher) o 12 daily breakfasts o 2 dinners Transportation in private air-conditioned coaches while touring English-speaking Jewish national guide for the entire trip English-speaking city guides in Fes & Marrakesh All applicable entrance fees as per itinerary All applicable taxes TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare Lunches Beverages Personal Expenses Tips for guide, drivers, waiters, hotel staff, etc. Travel insurance (Strongly Recommended) 5 of 4

6 TOUR HOTELS: City Hotel Room Category Nights Mumbai Trident Nariman Point Superior city view 3 Cochin Trident Cochin Superior Charm 3 Delhi Sheraton New Delhi Deluxe 2 Agra ITC Mughal Mughal room 1 Jaipur ITC Rajputana Executive club 2 Delhi ITC Dwarka Run of the house 1 ** Note: Hotel availability to be confirmed upon booking. If the above hotels are not available, comparable hotels will be confirmed. Additional cost may apply. RATES PER PERSON (LAND ONLY): Please inquire about airfare for this tour 2015 Per Person in Double Room Single Supplement Land-Only Package $2,502 $1,369 * Note: Prices based upon a minimum of 15 full paying participants, land only ** The tour accommodates a maximum of 25 participants *** All rates are subject to change due to currency fluctuations 6 of 4