A Soulful Journey to Shirdi: A First-Timer's Travel Guide

Shirdi, a small town in Maharashtra, India, is a sacred destination known as the home of Sai Baba, a saint revered across religions for his teachings of love, service, and devotion. As a first-time traveller, this guide will help you make your trip smooth, meaningful, and memorable. *Why Visit Shirdi? Shirdi is more than a pilgrimage—it's an experience of inner peace. People from all walks of life come to seek blessings at the Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir, and feel a unique sense of calm as they walk in his footsteps. *How to Reach Shirdi • By Air: o Shirdi Airport (SAG) is 15 km from the town. Flights available from Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and more. • By Train: o Shirdi’s nearest station is Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI). Regular trains from Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, etc. • By Road: o From Mumbai: ~240 km (5–6 hours’ drive) o From Pune: ~190 km (4–5 hours’ drive) *Where to Stay in Shirdi There are options for all budgets: • Budget stays: Sai Ashrams, Bhakt Niwas, and dormitories managed by the Trust. • Mid-range: Hotels like Sai Palace, JC Castle. • Premium: Sun-n-Sand Hotel (near the temple, with modern amenities). *Main Attractions • Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir The main temple where Baba’s Samadhi (final resting place) is located. Long queues, but darshan is peaceful. • Dwarkamai A mosque where Sai Baba spent much of his life. You can see his sacred dhuni (fire) still burning. • Chavadi&Gurusthan Places associated with Baba’s daily life and spiritual journey. • Sai Heritage Village A peaceful open-air museum showcasing life during Sai Baba’s era. *Temple Timings & Darshan Tips • Open: 4:00 AM to 11:15 PM • Aarti Timings: o Kakad Aarti: 4:30 AM o Madhyan Aarti: 12:00 PM o Dhoop Aarti: Sunset time o Shej Aarti: 10:30 PM *What to Pack • Comfortable cotton clothes (especially in summer) • Shawl or stole for temple visits • ID proof for hotel check-ins • Footwear easy to remove (required before entering temples) • Water bottle and basic meds *Shopping & Prasad • You’ll find plenty of stalls selling Sai Baba photos, books, prasad, and souvenirs near the temple gate. • Don’t forget to collect the free prasad laddoos distributed by the Trust. *Final Thoughts A trip to Shirdi isn’t just about rituals—it's about connecting with something deeper. Whether you're a devotee or a curious traveller, the simplicity, faith, and kindness of this town will leave a lasting impact on your heart. You too want his blessings like me, feel free to contact us at RENGHA HOLIDAYS!