DESCRIPTION:

Stretched between the golden beaches of the Indian Ocean and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountains lies an incredible tapestry of natural and man-made wonders – astounding temples, frenetic cities, pristine national parks, lavish palaces, lost kingdoms, mesmerizing markets, and some of the world’s most iconic monuments. India pulsates with its spectacular mix of people, traditions, and landscapes. A trip to the Indian subcontinent is a whirlwind of sensory experiences – vivid sights, sounds, and sensations.

 

India’s multitude of sacred sites and rituals are testament to the country's long, colorful, and sometimes tumultuous, religious history. India is one of the world's great melting pots, where an incredible diversity of cultures, religions and ethnicities live in surprising harmony: Hindus, Muslims, Jains, Jews, Christians, and Buddhists. Most scholars fix the date that Jews first settled in India as the Middle Ages, though legend holds that they came during the time of King Solomon. A remarkable aspect of Jewry in India is the absence of discrimination by a host majority. This tolerance is due to the Hindu belief, which confers legitimacy to a wide diversity of cultural and religious groups. India is a fascinating, layered, complex country that will linger with you long after you have departed.

 

This journey will focus on the Jewish community, but also look at sites related to other faiths. After traveling all this way, it would be a shonda not to see the Taj Mahal, take a cruise on a rice boat in Kerala, or ride an elephant to a Mahraja’s palace!

 

CONSIDER:

Many people are nervous about visiting India and seeing the poverty. On this organized trip, it is possible to tailor this exposure to the comfort level of the group.

 

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Consider extending the trip to Kolkota (Calcutta) and Aizwal to see the Jewish communities there.