Set amidst the tranquil landscapes of Maharashtra, Shirdi is more than just a town; it is a divine haven which draws thousands of people every year, be it a devotee or a traveler. Known as the abode of the highly respected saint Sai Baba, Shirdi welcomes travelers from every background, all longing for healing, guidance, and a taste of divinity. Thanks to its colourful history and culture, as well as the eternal aura of Sai Baba, this little town has rightfully earned its certain fame as a top pilgrimage destination in India. Whether you are an ardent believer or a traveler with a curious mind, Shirdi is an experience that is both enriching and memorable.
How to Get to Shirdi: The Passages to Your Divine Experience
With several scenic routes and big travel options, reaching Shirdi is a trip in itself which should be experienced. Now, let’s check how you can start this spiritual journey from different metro cities in India.
From Delhi to Shirdi
If you begin your journey from the capital, Delhi, you have a few options. The fastest way to get to Shirdi is by air. You can take a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) to Shirdi Airport (SAG) that is about a 2 hour journey. The distance between the airport and the temple town is about 15 kilometers and you can either hire a taxi or opt for a bus service.
Or, if you’re more adventurous, try the train. It takes around 18-20 hrs from New Delhi to Sainagar Shirdi station as well. Various trains are available, the famous “Nizamuddin – Sainagar Shirdi Express.” Local taxis and auto rickshaws are available in plenty to take you from there to your desired destination.
From Mumbai
Shirdi is 243 kilometres from the bustling metro city of Mumbai. The most viable option is to catch a direct train from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to Sainagar Shirdi, which lasts approximately between 6-8 hours. You can also book a cab or take a bus if you plan to travel via road. The drive is about 5 to 6 hours long and offers a lovely scenic route—especially when the countryside is alive with greenery—so the journey will be equally enjoyable.
From Hyderabad
If you are traveling from Hyderabad, you have some options. Train: The journey from Secunderabad to Sainagar takes durations of approximately between 16 – 18 Hours. If you want to save your time, you can also book them a flight to Shirdi Airport, which takes approximately 1.5 hours, and after that a short taxi ride to the town.
From Bangalore
Traveling from Bangalore? Your best option is to fly into Shirdi Airport, about 1.5 to 2 hours away. Of course, you may choose to do the train ride lasting around 24 hours or the longer but beautiful bus ride!
From Chennai
If you were looking for an unforgettable journey, Chennai to the holy town is the ideal! The quickest travel route would be by air—direct flights to Shirdi take approximately an hour and a half. Once you arrive, it’s just a short taxi ride to the temple. If you have time for a road trip, consider driving; it will take about 16 hours and you’ll get to experience the variety of South Indian landscapes.
From Trivandrum
If you are at the southern end of India, starting from Trivandrum, you can consider flying to Shirdi that takes approximately 4 hours on an average. So yes, you can also take a train which takes anywhere between 24 – 30 hours based on the connections.
From Kolkata
Traveling from Kolkata? Flight: It will take about 2.5hour to reach to Shirdi Airport. On the other hand, a train travel from Howrah to Sainagar Shirdi would take some 25 hours — though it is the longer option, it comes with the pleasure of travel.
From Bhubaneswar
Finally, for the travellers from Bhubaneswar, a flight will take about 2.5 hours. The trip if you take a train will take about 30 hours, so if you don’t have enough time, flying is the best option.
Top advice to get the most from your Shirdi trip
- Purchasing Tickets in Advance: If you’re going by air or train, book your tickets in advance with platforms like MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip, or EaseMyTrip, so you don’t have to worry about approaching last-minute deals.
- Stay Close: Friends warn that staying near the temple is the best option. There are different budget hotels, lodges and guesthouses.
- How to Visit: The Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir is often quite crowded, particularly on weekends and festival days. For a more peaceful experience, try visiting the botanical garden on weekdays.
- Local Cuisine: Be sure to try local Maharashtrian dishes. Savor the authentic flavors in local eateries.
- Respect the Customs: Being a holy place, Shirdi has certain customs and traditions, so ensure that you dress appropriately and maintain decorum while visiting the temple.
- Capture Memories: The divine is most important but also, don’t forget to capture the countryside and beautiful moments around Shirdi.
With a little preparation and the right mindset, your pilgrimage to Shirdi will be a journey of a lifetime. So throw on your bags, pull on your tickets and prepare to experience the magic of this divine town! TripAdvisor to guide (find below travel tips) | Thrillophilia travel guide. Now, let the adventure begin!
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