Excursion Mumbai's jewish heritage tour at Bombay

Explore the evolution of Mumbai's longstanding Jewish heritage during this memorable, half-day synagogue excursion through the city.

Gateway of India and Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate 30-minute drive to the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue. En route, pass by the Gateway of India. The city's most famous landmark, this Indo-Saracenic archway was built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Your first stop is at the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue, also known as 'Fort Synagogue'. Built in 1884 by Sir Jacob Sassoon, this splendid structure features interior with decorated pillars, magnificent stained glass and carved wooden doors. On the second floor is a spacious women's gallery.

David Sassoon Library and Magen David Synagogue

Next, re-board your coach and continue past the David Sassoon Library. One of the largest libraries in Mumbai, this impressive, Gothic-style building was constructed in 1847. From here, proceed for a visit to the Magen David Synagogue. Commissioned by the Sassoon family in 1861, Magen David was the first Baghdadi synagogue constructed in Mumbai and the largest synagogue in Asia. This tall, imposing, Gothic-style edifice has four frontal pillars and towers over all of the other buildings in the complex.

Tiphereth Synagogue and Institute Of Science

Your tour concludes with a visit to the historic Tiphereth Synagogue, which was built in 1886. During the approximate 45-minute drive back to the pier, pass by the Institute of Science, better known as the 'Royal Institute of Science'. Sir George Wittet designed the building in 1925, and its construction funded by Sir Jacob Sassoon. This facility is world-renowned as a centre for education and research.

Arrive at the pier, where the ship awaits.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Mumbai City, Gateway of India, David Sassoon Library, Royal Institute of Science, Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue, Magen David Synagogue, Tiphereth Synagogue

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking for approximately 250 yards (228 metres) over paved surfaces and with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 4 steps at the Magen David and Tiphereth synagogues, and 20 steps at the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection,

sunglasses and a hat are recommended. Men are required to wear yarmulkes inside the synagogues and are provided at each stop. At some sites, depending on traffic and parking conditions, it may be necessary to cross busy streets. Sites may also be crowded and guests need to exercise normal caution. Guests of non-Jewish faith are not permitted inside the synagogues on Saturday mornings. Jewish guests are required to carry copies of their passports as proof of identity for the synagogues on those days. Videography is prohibited inside the synagogues and depending on the management, photography may also be prohibited at any of the synagogues. A current charge of INR 500 is levied (at time of printing) as camera fee at Keneseth Eliyahoo and Magen David synagogues and INR 100 at Tiphereth synagogue. Guests should carry some local currency for the same.