Itinerary:-

• Stop at: Neveh Shalome Synagogue, 9a Indra Kumar Karnani Street, Kolkata (Calcutta), India 700001

Shalome Cohen, who arrived in Calcutta in the 1790s with other Jews from the Middle East, is said to be the city's first Jewish immigrant. With the growth of the community came the need for a prayer house, and Naveh Shalome, India's first Baghdadi prayer house, was created out of a renovated dwelling. It was built in 1831 by Shalom Obaidah Ha Cohen, replacing Naveh Shalome, which was razed in 1883 to make way for a larger synagogue (Maghen David). However, the synagogue was reconstructed in 1912, with rather basic furnishings. The large wooden doors open to reveal a modest rectangular synagogue sanctuary leading up to the tebah (raised platform for reading the Torah) and the alter behind it. It had to be rebuilt after long years of neglect due to the decreasing Jewish population. The synagogue also includes a tiny museum in its gallery to showcase Kolkata's extensive Jewish heritage.

Duration: 30 minutes

• 109 Biplabi Rash Behari Basu Road, Corner Braebourne Road and Canning Street, Kolkata (Calcutta), India

This synagogue is a crimson Renaissance-style structure with a high clock tower. Many people mistake it for an ancient church, but it is actually one of India's greatest and largest synagogues, with architectural magnificence that will take your breath away once you step inside. The Star of David above the magnificent wooden doors leads into the premises of Maghen David Synagogue, which is said to have been built in 1884 by EDJ Ezra. The stained-glass windows, the colourful tiles of the elevated alter, the painted deep-blue and gold stars sprinkled apse, and the vintage Belgian-glass chandeliers all combine to create awe-inspiring architecture.

Duration: 30 minutes

• Stop at the Beth El Synagogue, 26 Pollock Street, Kolkata (Calcutta), India.

The Pollock Street Post Office houses the Experior pale-yellow synagogue, which has appliques of the Star of David and the menorah. The interior of Beth-El is stunning in blue and white, with massive columns and stained-glass clerestories, elaborate wood work, and ancient glass chandeliers. The old wooden mesh seats and wide louvre windows with stained glass add to the appeal.

Duration: 30 minutes

• When you book, you will receive confirmation.
• Most travellers are able to participate.
• This is an exclusive tour/activity.
• Only your group will take part.

• Not wheelchair accessible