Guyam Island, Siargao, Philippines (Photo: Envato)
When planning a vacation, many Jewish travelers check if there's a Chabad house nearby. Sometimes, Chabad is the only source for kosher food and a minyan. In our original blog, Chabad in Unexpected Places, we highlighted some surprising locations where Chabad has established a presence. Now, we've gone even further to find more remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations—some you may not have even heard of!
Many of these places have long been popular with Israeli backpackers, especially post-army. It began with the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, who sent emissaries to create Jewish centers worldwide, and it has continued to expand with new Chabad houses opening on a regular basis. Today, Chabad houses are found in the most unexpected corners of the globe.
One of this year's biggest kosher travel trends is vacationing in remote locations. For more on this trend, check out our blog on Emerging Kosher Vacation Travel Trends for 2025.
Here are some new, far-flung Chabad houses serving both local communities and adventurous travelers:
Andorra (Photo: Envato)
Chabad of Andorra
Nestled in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, Andorra is a tiny mountain principality known for skiing and duty-free shopping. Its remote location in the mountains makes it a hidden gem for travelers looking to escape bustling cities. In winter, enjoy skiing at Grandvalira, one of Europe's largest ski resorts, while summer offers hiking trails with breathtaking views. Chabad of Andorra serves tourists and the small Jewish community with Shabbat meals and holiday services. The scenic beauty and outdoor adventures make this a unique stop for Jewish travelers. More on Chabad of Andorra.
Chabad of Siargao, Philippines
Siargao, famous for its surfing, is a paradise island in the Philippines. Known for its laid-back vibe and crystal-clear waters, Siargao feels like a world away from the crowded tourist spots. Cloud 9, one of the top surfing destinations globally, draws surfers from all over, while island hopping to lagoons and hidden beaches offers unforgettable experiences. Chabad of Siargao serves the growing number of Jewish travelers looking for kosher food and a place to connect. More on Chabad of Siargao.
Pai, Mae Hong Son, Thailand (Photo by Polina Kocheva on Unsplash)
Chabad of Pai, Thailand
You may know about Chabad houses in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and Phuket—but have you heard of Pai? This picturesque village in northern Thailand is nestled high in the Mae Hong Son mountains, making it an off-the-beaten-path retreat. The journey itself, via winding mountain roads, adds to its charm. Pai offers hot springs, waterfalls, and a laid-back atmosphere that attracts backpackers, especially Israeli travelers post-army. Chabad of Pai brings kosher meals and Shabbat services to this remote retreat. More on Chabad of Pai.
Chabad of RARA (Rural and Regional Australia)
Australia's vast, rural outback is as remote as it gets. Chabad of RARA (Rural and Regional Australia) travels across these regions, bringing Jewish services to communities that might otherwise feel isolated. Whether you’re in a mining town or exploring the rugged landscapes of the Outback, Chabad of RARA ensures you have access to kosher food, Shabbat services, and a sense of Jewish connection. More on Chabad of RARA.
Santa Catalina Arch in Antigua, Guatemala (Photo: Envato)
Chabad of Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua, with its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, feels like stepping back in time. Surrounded by volcanoes, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers rich culture and history. Visit the Santa Catalina Arch, explore ancient ruins, or hike up the Pacaya Volcano for breathtaking views. Chabad of Antigua provides kosher meals, Shabbat services, and holiday celebrations for travelers exploring Guatemala’s natural beauty. More on Chabad of Antigua.
Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada (Photo: Envato)
Chabad of the Canadian Rockies (Canmore)
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Canmore offers breathtaking mountain views and outdoor adventures. Its remote location provides a serene escape from city life, with activities like hiking, rock climbing, and exploring Banff National Park just a short drive away. In winter, skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts are a must. Chabad of the Canadian Rockies serves tourists with Shabbat meals, holiday services, and a welcoming Jewish environment amidst the stunning natural beauty. More on Chabad of the Canadian Rockies.
Chabad of Dharamsala, India
Dharamsala is best known as the home of the Dalai Lama and Tibetan government-in-exile, but it’s also a popular stop for Israeli backpackers seeking spiritual journeys in the Himalayas. The mountain villages of Bhagsu and Dharamkot offer yoga retreats, meditation centers, and scenic hiking trails. Chabad houses in these villages provide kosher food and Jewish services for travelers navigating the rugged beauty of northern India. More on Chabad of Dharamsala.
Mauritius (Photo: Envato)
Chabad of Mauritius
Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for its secluded beaches, lush forests, and coral reefs. This tropical paradise offers snorkeling, hiking in Black River Gorges National Park, and exploring colonial-era architecture in Port Louis. Despite its remote location, Chabad of Mauritius serves both the small local Jewish community and tourists seeking a kosher escape in the middle of the Indian Ocean. More on Chabad of Mauritius.
Chabad of the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands, famous for their crystal-clear waters and world-class diving, are a slice of Caribbean paradise. Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach offers pristine sands and water sports, while Stingray City provides an up-close encounter with friendly stingrays. Chabad of the Cayman Islands offers kosher meals, Shabbat services, and a Jewish community hub for visitors exploring this remote island destination. More on Chabad of the Cayman Islands.
Giraffe with the city of Nairobi in the background (Photo: Envato)
Chabad of Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi, the bustling capital of Kenya, is a hub for travelers heading on safari, yet it remains a remote destination for kosher travelers. Visit the Nairobi National Park, where you can see lions and giraffes with the city skyline in the background, or explore the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Chabad of Nairobi serves the small Jewish community and tourists, offering Shabbat meals, holiday services, and a warm Jewish environment in the heart of East Africa. More on Chabad of Nairobi.
Conclusion
Chabad houses around the world support both local Jewish communities and travelers in the most unexpected places. Whether you're hiking in the Himalayas, surfing in the Philippines, or exploring the Canadian Rockies, Chabad is there to provide kosher food, Shabbat services, and a warm Jewish environment.
As Chabad houses are independently funded, they rely on donations from visitors. If you benefit from their hospitality, consider supporting their efforts. The shluchim work tirelessly to create welcoming Jewish spaces in even the most remote locations. Be in touch with the Chabad house before your trip to ask if they need anything—even kosher candy, chocolates, and other basics we often take for granted are greatly appreciated in these remote destinations.
For more about planning kosher vacations in off-the-beaten-path destinations, check out our blog on Emerging Kosher Vacation Travel Trends for 2025. And if you haven’t already, don’t miss our original blog, Chabad in Unexpected Places, for even more unique destinations!