Spiritual Journeys

Shirdi Darshan Guide 2026: Timings, Stay, Travel & Mistakes to Avoid

Ahmednagar, Maharashtra Home of 19th-century saint Sai Baba

Shirdi, a sacred town in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, is one of India’s most visited pilgrimage destinations. It is the former home and final resting place of the 19th-century saint Sai Baba, whose message of “Sabka Malik Ek” (One God Governs All) continues to inspire millions of devotees every year.

Plan your 2026 Shirdi pilgrimage with updated temple timings, darshan pass details, budget stays, nearby attractions, and essential travel tips.

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🔹 Introduction & History

Shirdi is a small yet powerful spiritual town that rose to global prominence due to Sai Baba, a saint who preached unity, love, forgiveness, and faith beyond religion. The town has a peaceful and devotional atmosphere, making it ideal for families, solo travelers, and elderly devotees.

The Story of the Place & Deity

Sai Baba first appeared in Shirdi as a 16-year-old boy, meditating silently under a Neem tree at Gurusthan. He later settled in a humble, dilapidated mosque that he lovingly named Dwarkamai. He was known for his miracles, like lighting lamps with water. Sai Baba helped the poor, healed the sick, and guided people irrespective of caste or religion. After attaining Mahasamadhi in 1918, devotees built a grand temple at the same spot, which now houses his sacred Samadhi.

Pro Tip 🙏

Spend time at Gurusthan and Dwarkamai for a complete spiritual experience.

Shri Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir

Shirdi Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir Marble Statue

Temple Timings (2026)

Temple Opening Time: 4:45 AM
Kakad Aarti: 5:15 AM
Madhyan Aarti: 12:00 PM
Dhoop Aarti: Sunset
Shej Aarti: 10:00 PM

How to Reach Shirdi

By Air (Fastest Option)

Nearest Airport: Shirdi International Airport (SAG). It is about 14–15 km away and takes 30–40 minutes by taxi.

Connectivity: Direct flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Indore.

By Train (Most Popular)

Nearest Railway Station: Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI), located just 3 km from the Sai Baba Temple.

Vande Bharat Express (Mumbai-Shirdi), Karnataka Express, and various "Sai Nagar" specials connect Shirdi to almost every corner of India.

By Road (Flexible Option)

The Samruddhi Mahamarg Advantage: The new Nagpur-Mumbai Super Communication Expressway has slashed travel times. Both MSRTC and private luxury Volvo sleepers run daily.

Mumbai to Shirdi: 240 km
Pune to Shirdi: 190 km
Nashik to Shirdi: 90 km

Mode	Destination Point	Distance to Temple
Flight	Shirdi Airport (SAG)	14 km
Train	Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI)	3 km
Bus	Shirdi Main Bus Stand	2 km

Where to Stay in Shirdi

For the most affordable and well-maintained public stay options, look at the Shree Saibaba Sansthan Trust (SSST) accommodations.

1. Sai Ashram (Bhakti Niwas)
Best For: Large groups and families.
Massive complex with over 1,500 rooms. Book via official Sansthan website or at the counter.
2. Dwarawati Bhakti Niwas
Located very close to the temple entrance, ideal for multiple Aartis.
3. New Bhakti Niwas
Very affordable rates, basic amenities, 10–15 mins from temple.
4. MTDC Shirdi
Government resort for those preferring a standard hotel setup. Book via MTDC website.

Fento Pro Tip 🛏️: Book early during festivals to avoid last-minute hassles.

Top 5 attractions near Shirdi

1. Shani Shingnapur

Famous village where houses have no doors. Dedicated to Lord Shani (~75 km away).

2. Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, located in Nashik. A must-visit spiritual site.

3. Ellora Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage site with 34 rock-cut caves. A timeless wonder carved in stone.

4. Ajanta Caves

Ancient Buddhist caves famous for paintings and sculptures. Often visited with Ellora.

5. Nashik (Panchavati & Ramkund)

Panchavati is where Lord Rama stayed during exile. Ramkund is the holy bathing ghat.

2-Day "Grand" Itinerary (Recommended)

Day 1: Spiritual Immersion

Morning: Arrive, check-in, and head for Main Darshan.
Afternoon: Detailed tour of the temple complex (Gurusthan, Museum, and Dixit Wada).
Evening: Attend the Dhoop Aarti (Sunset) or Shej Aarti (10:00 PM) for a truly divine atmosphere. Stay overnight.

Day 2: Nearby Wonders

08:00 AM: Travel to Shani Shingnapur (approx. 75 km / 2 hours). It’s famous for being a village where houses have no doors!
01:00 PM: Return to Shirdi or head towards Nashik (Panchavati) if you have a late-night flight/train.
04:00 PM: Visit Sai Teerth Theme Park (India’s first devotional theme park with a 5D show of Sai Baba’s life).

🍽 What to Eat in Shirdi

1. Prasadalaya Thali (The Holy Meal)

Where: Shri Sai Prasadalaya

Ground Floor (Hall 1): Completely Free.

1st Floor (Halls 2 & 3): ₹50 charge for a more comfortable, less crowded experience.

2. Misal Pav (Local Breakfast)

Where: Stalls near Temple

A spicy Maharashtrian staple that’s perfect for fueling up before a long Darshan line.

3. Fresh Masala Guava (Street Snack)

Where: Vendors around the temple

Shirdi is famous for its sweet, pink-flesh guavas (Peru) sprinkled with spicy salt.

4. Boondi Ladoo (The Best Souvenir)

Where: Official Sansthan Counter

The iconic "Shirdi Prasad" that stays fresh for days—perfect to take home for family.

5. Sugarcane Juice (Quick Refresher)

Where: Stalls on Pimpalwadi Road

Freshly pressed and incredibly refreshing under the Shirdi sun.

Frequent Traveller Mistakes

Carrying Electronics: Mobile phones, cameras, power banks are strictly prohibited inside the temple. Use official locker rooms.
Ignoring Thursday Crowds: Thursday is the busiest day (3–4 times the usual crowds). Plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is a Darshan pass required for Shirdi in 2026?

No, but highly recommended. Booking a timed entry pass online can reduce waiting time from hours to 45-60 minutes.

2. How far is Shirdi Airport from the main temple?

It is about 14–15 km away, taking 30-40 minutes by taxi.

3. What is the best time to visit Shirdi?

The best time is October to March, when the weather is pleasant. Avoid peak summer (April–June) due to high temperatures.

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