Here’s a comprehensive guide for first-time visitors on how to reach the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple:
1. By Air:
Nearest Airport:
Shirdi Airport (SAG): Approximately 14 km from the temple.
Major Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai (BOM): About 240 km from Shirdi.
From Shirdi Airport:
Taxi: The most convenient option; taxis are available at the airport and can take you directly to the temple.
Local Transport: You can also find buses and auto-rickshaws to reach the temple.
From Mumbai Airport:
By Train: You can take a train from Mumbai to Shirdi. The journey takes around 7-10 hours.
By Bus: Several private and state-run buses operate from Mumbai to Shirdi.
By Taxi: You can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services for a direct trip to Shirdi.
2. By Train:
Nearest Railway Station:
Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI): About 1-2 km from the temple.
From Sainagar Shirdi Station:
Walk: It’s a short walk to the temple.
Auto-rickshaw/Taxi: Available outside the station for a quick ride.
Major Stations with Trains to Shirdi:
Mumbai: Trains from Mumbai CST, Dadar, and Lokmanya Tilak stations.
Pune: Trains from Pune Junction.
Nashik: Trains from Nashik Road Station.
3. By Bus:
State Transport Buses:
Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC): Operates regular bus services to Shirdi from major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Aurangabad.
Private Bus Operators:
Several private bus operators provide services from Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and other cities.
Bus Terminus in Shirdi:
Shirdi Bus Depot: Located near the temple; buses from the depot or nearby hotels can be a convenient option.
4. By Road:
Driving:
From Mumbai: About 240 km, approximately a 5-7 hour drive via NH60.
From Pune: About 200 km, approximately a 4-6 hour drive via NH60.
From Nashik: About 90 km, approximately a 2-3 hour drive via NH160.
Road Conditions:
The roads are generally well-maintained, but check for updates on road conditions before traveling.
5. Local Transportation in Shirdi:
Auto-rickshaws and Taxis:
Easily available for local travel around Shirdi.
Local Buses:
There are buses operated by the Shirdi Municipal Transport system that connect various parts of the town.
Additional Tips:
Accommodation: There are numerous hotels and guesthouses in Shirdi ranging from budget to luxury. Some are located very close to the temple.
Food: Several eateries and restaurants are available near the temple offering a variety of cuisines.
Temple Timing: The temple is open from early morning to late evening. Check the official website or local sources for specific timings and any special events.
Dress Code: Dress modestly. Traditional attire is preferred, and it’s advisable to avoid revealing clothing.
Luggage: Avoid carrying large bags inside the temple. There are designated areas for storing belongings.
This should help you plan a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple!
The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, located in Shirdi, Maharashtra, is a popular pilgrimage site. Here’s how to reach the temple by various means:
1. By Air:
Shirdi Airport: The nearest airport is Shirdi International Airport, which is about 14 kilometers from the temple. There are regular flights from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore.
From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
Alternative Airports:
Aurangabad Airport (about 130 kilometers from Shirdi): You can take a taxi or bus from Aurangabad to Shirdi.
Pune Airport (about 185 kilometers from Shirdi): Buses and taxis are available from Pune to Shirdi, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours.
2. By Train:
Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Sainagar Shirdi, just 3 kilometers from the Sai Baba Temple. There are trains from major cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore.
From the station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the temple.
Alternative Railway Stations:
Kopergaon Railway Station: About 16 kilometers from Shirdi. Taxis and buses are available from Kopergaon to Shirdi.
Manmad Junction: About 58 kilometers from Shirdi. You can take a taxi or bus to reach the temple.
3. By Road:
By Bus: Shirdi is well-connected by state-run and private buses from major cities like Mumbai (240 km), Pune (185 km), Nashik (90 km), and Aurangabad (130 km). Several Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) and private operators run regular services to Shirdi.
By Taxi/Car: You can hire a taxi from nearby cities like Pune, Nashik, or Aurangabad. From Mumbai, it takes about 5-6 hours by road to reach Shirdi via the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway.
4. By Private Vehicle:
If you’re driving to Shirdi, the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway and Pune-Ahmednagar Highway provide good road connectivity. The distance from Mumbai is around 240 km and from Pune, it’s about 185 km. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours from both cities.
Local Transportation:
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available within Shirdi for short distances. You can also walk to the temple if you’re staying at a nearby hotel.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is easily accessible and offers a peaceful spiritual experience.