2 Best Sights in Central Mumbai, Mumbai

This Hasidic synagogue is probably Mumbai's most active synagogue, but being in Byculla, it's not really much of a tourist destination; it's also not always open to visitors. But if you're in the area---which is actually in the Muslim area of Madanpura---you can view this Bene Israel shrine from the outside and talk to locals. The congregation and caretakers at this well-attended shrine (with about 750 members) can lend insight into the future of this community. Although the communities of Baghdadi and Cochini Jews have dwindled to just a few thousand, the Bene Israel community continues to modestly prosper. Magen Hassidim is the face of India's modern Jews who are now part of the nation's mainstream.

At Jacob Circle, a 20-minute taxi ride north of Shaare Rahamim, is Tiphaereth Israel Synagogue, home of the Bene Israel Jews—a tiny still-thriving Maharashtrian Jewish community. Ask for the Yehudi mandir (Jewish temple). This small, shiny synagogue, tucked away on a side lane, is quite charming; unlike Shaare Rahamin, it seems well loved and well maintained, although the original structure has been altered through the years. It's best to call before visiting: the synagogue is open mostly in the morning or evening.