Things to do in Saibaba Temple – A complete travel guide

Shirdi Saibaba Temple, located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, is a small town famous for the Saibaba Temple. The temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India, drawing millions of visitors each year from all over the world. The town has a serene and peaceful atmosphere, with its narrow lanes, quaint buildings, and the fragrance of incense wafting through the air. A visit to Shirdi Saibaba Temple offers an opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the town, experience the devotion of the devotees, and seek the blessings of Saibaba.

In this blog, we will take you on a journey through the holy town of Shirdi Saibaba Temple and share our experiences of visiting the Saibaba Temple. From the best time to visit to the must-see attractions, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to this sacred destination. Ready to immerse yourself in the spirituality and magic of Shirdi Saibaba Temple? Make your trip comfortable by booking a Savaari cab.

Table of Contents

About Shirdi Saibaba temple

The Shirdi Saibaba is one of the most famous and revered temples in India, located in the small town of Shirdi in Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to the renowned saint Saibaba, who lived in the town for over 50 years and preached goodness and means of living well. It was built in 1922 and has since become a major pilgrimage site, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.

Its complex includes several buildings, including the main temple, the Dwarkamai Mosque, and the Chavadi, which are all significant in Saibaba’s life. The temple has unique traditions, such as the distribution of ‘prasad’ or blessed food, and the continuous burning of the holy fire called ‘Dhuni’. The temple’s serene and peaceful atmosphere, coupled with its rich history and spiritual significance, makes it a must-visit destination for all those seeking Saibaba’s blessings and guidance in their lives.

Deity

The Shirdi Saibaba Temple is dedicated to the revered saint Saibaba, who is believed to have lived in the town of Shirdi. Saibaba is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva and is revered by people of all religions for his teachings on love, compassion, and selfless service. He performed miracles and cured people of their ailments, which has further cemented his status as a spiritual leader and guide. 

Location

Shirdi Saibaba Temple is located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The road to Shirdi Saibaba Temple is lined with beautiful trees and long stretches of farmlands. You can also find various small food stalls that offer lip-smacking authentic Maharashtrian food that can give you a rich immersive experience of the state’s cuisine. 

History

The history of Shirdi Saibaba Temple dates back to the 19th century when Saibaba first arrived in the town. He is said to have spent most of his life in Shirdi, where he preached and helped treated the villagers. Saibaba’s teachings have had a profound impact on people’s lives, and his followers continue to grow in number even today. The temple was built in 1922 to honour his memory and has since become one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Shirdi Saibaba Temple is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The town gets crowded during major festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, and Guru Purnima when devotees flock to the temple to seek Saibaba’s blessings. Plan your visit accordingly and book your accommodation well in advance.

Interesting facts

Did you know? Despite the global follower base, it is believed that only the followers that Saibaba calls end up visiting Shirdi. It is often arguable if this is true or not but here are some other interesting facts about the temple. 

• Saibaba is believed to have no clear lineage or known birthplace, making his life and teachings even more mysterious and intriguing.
• The Shirdi Saibaba Temple is one of the richest temples in India, with an annual income of over Rs. 350 crores.
• The temple has a unique tradition of distributing ‘prasad’ or blessed food to all visitors, which is considered to be a blessing from Saibaba.
• The temple has a holy fire called ‘Dhuni’ that is believed to have been lit by Saibaba himself and has been burning continuously for over 100 years.
• The town of Shirdi has a number of other significant religious sites, including the Dwarkamai Mosque, where Saibaba is said to have lived for a major part of his life.
• The temple has a strict dress code for visitors, with men being required to wear dhoti and kurta, and women being required to wear saree or salwar kameez.
• The temple complex also has a museum that houses several articles related to Saibaba’s life and teachings.
• The Shirdi Saibaba Temple attracts visitors from all over the world, including celebrities and political leaders, who come to seek his blessings and guidance in their lives.

Shirdi Saibaba temple darshan timings

The Shirdi Saibaba Temple is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India across castes and creeds. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year, and there are several options available for Darshan or the viewing of the deity. Here are the different types of Darshan and their timings:

Type	Details	Timings	Cost
Samadhi Mandir Darshan	The Samadhi Mandir is the main temple of the Shirdi Saibaba Temple complex and is open for Darshan from early morning till late night. Devotees can take part in the daily aarti and special aartis that are performed at various times during the day. There is no additional fee for the Samadhi Mandir Darshan.	4:00 AM to 11:15 PM: Open for Darshan11:15 PM to 4:00 AM: Closed for Darshan	Rs. 200
VIP Darshan	For those who want to skip the long queues and get a closer Darshan of the deity, there is a VIP Darshan option available. The timings for the VIP Darshan are the same as the regular Samadhi Mandir Darshan. However, devotees need to purchase a special VIP Darshan pass that allows them to enter through a separate VIP entrance.	5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily	Rs. 200
Kakad Aarti Darshan	The Kakad Aarti is the morning aarti that is performed at the Samadhi Mandir, and it is believed to be the most auspicious time to seek Saibaba’s blessings	4:30 AM to 5:00 AM: Entry for Kakad Aarti Darshan5:00 AM to 5:30 AM: Kakad Aarti5:30 AM to 7:00 AM: Darshan continues	Rs. 200
Shej Aarti Darshan	The Shej Aarti is the night aarti that is performed at the Samadhi Mandir, and it is the last aarti of the day.	10:30 PM to 10:45 PM: Entry for Shej Aarti Darshan10:45 PM to 11:00 PM: Shej Aarti11:00 PM to 11:45 PM: Darshan continues	Rs. 200

It is important to note that the Darshan timings may change during major festivals and events, and it is always advisable to check the official website or make enquiries beforehand. Additionally, there are no fees for regular Darshan at the temple, but there may be additional charges for special Darshan passes. The Shirdi Saibaba Temple Darshan timings offer a wide range of options for devotees to seek the blessings and guidance of the revered saint.

Shirdi Saibaba temple dress code

The Shirdi Saibaba Temple is a sacred place of worship for millions of devotees across the world. As with any other religious site, the temple has certain rules and regulations in place to maintain the sanctity and decorum of the premises. One such regulation is the dress code that visitors have to follow. Here’s what you need to know about the Shirdi Saibaba Temple temple dress code:

• Clothes to Avoid:

The temple authorities have mandated that visitors should not wear clothes that are revealing, transparent, or provocative. Clothes such as shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops, and sleeveless shirts are strictly prohibited. Visitors who are dressed in such clothing will not be allowed to enter the temple.

• Traditional Clothing:

The temple authorities encourage visitors to wear traditional clothing such as sarees, salwar-kameez, dhotis, and kurtas. These clothing styles are considered to be respectful and appropriate for a place of worship. Visitors who are dressed in traditional clothing will be permitted to enter the temple.

Sevas and poojas at the Shirdi Saibaba temple

The temple is known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual energy. One of the most important aspects of the temple’s offerings is the sevas and poojas that are performed here. Here’s everything you need to know about the sevas and poojas at Shirdi Saibaba Temple:

Seva/Pooja	Significance	Cost (Approximate)
Kakad Aarti	Morning Aarti performed at dawn, symbolizing the waking of Saibaba	Free
Abhishekam	Ritual bathing of the Saibaba statue with holy water and other sacred substances	INR 1000-1500
Palaki Seva	Carriage procession of the Saibaba idol around the temple complex	INR 2000-3000
Satyanarayana Pooja	Worship of Lord Satyanarayana, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being	INR 1000-2000
Rudrabhishekam	Offering prayers to Lord Shiva by performing an elaborate ritual with the chanting of sacred mantras	INR 3000-5000
Sai Satcharitra Parayan	Recitation of the holy book “Sai Satcharitra,” narrating the life and teachings of Saibaba	Free
Annadanam	Offering of free meals to devotees, considered as a service to humanity	Donations accepted
Navagraha Pooja	Worship of the nine celestial planets (Navagrahas) to mitigate the negative effects of planetary influences	INR 1500-2500
Homam/Havan	Ritual fire ceremony conducted for various purposes like purification, blessings, and removal of obstacles	INR 5000-7000
Akhand Parayan	Continuous recitation of the holy book or scripture for a specified period	Free
Samadhi Mandir Pooja	Offering prayers at Saibaba’s Samadhi (final resting place) in the main temple	Free

Shirdi Saibaba temple entry fees and pooja charges

The temple is famous for its spiritual energy and serene atmosphere that provides a perfect platform for devotees to connect with the divine. The temple offers various poojas and sevas that the temple priests perform. Devotees can participate in these by making a donation to the temple.

In addition to the sevas and poojas, the temple also has an entry fee for visitors. The entry fee for adults is Rs.200/- per person, and for children below the age of 12 years, it is Rs.100/-. The entry fee includes a VIP darshan of the deity and access to all the facilities of the temple.

Apart from the entry fee, the temple also charges pooja fees for different poojas. The fees vary depending on the type of pooja and the timing of the day. For instance, the Kakad Aarti seva fee is Rs.1000/-, while the Shej Aarti seva fee is Rs.500/-. Devotees can choose the sevas and poojas they wish to participate in and pay the fees accordingly.

It is important to note that the temple authorities only accept cash payments, and devotees must carry sufficient cash with them. The temple also provides facilities for online pooja bookings and payments.

Things to do in Shirdi Saibaba temple

A visit to the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is more than just a pilgrimage; it is a spiritual journey that can touch the depths of your heart and soul. Engaging in these activities inside the temple will help you experience the true essence of Sai Baba’s teachings and find solace in his divine presence. So, plan your trip to Shirdi and immerse yourself in the spiritual bliss that awaits you at the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple.

• The main attraction of the temple is the Samadhi Mandir, which houses the sacred remains of Sai Baba. Devotees gather in long queues to catch a glimpse of the marble statue of Sai Baba and seek his blessings. The darshan of Sai Baba’s Samadhi is a truly transcendental experience, evoking a sense of peace and devotion.

• Participating in the daily Aarti (ritualistic worship) is a significant aspect of the Sai Baba Temple experience. The temple conducts four Aarti sessions throughout the day: Kakad Aarti (morning), Madhyan Aarti (afternoon), Dhoop Aarti (evening), and Shej Aarti (night). The enchanting devotional songs, rhythmic chants, and the divinely charged atmosphere make attending the Aarti a soul-stirring experience.

• Dwarkamai is a small mosque where Sai Baba spent a significant portion of his life, and it holds immense spiritual significance. Devotees can pay their respects to the Dhuni (sacred fire) that Sai Baba kept burning continuously and seek blessings. Dwarkamai also has the place where Sai Baba used to sit and interact with devotees, known as the ‘Dwarkamai Mosque Seat.’

• Chavadi is another prominent place associated with Sai Baba. It is a small structure where Sai Baba used to sleep every alternate night during the last years of his life. The procession from Dwarkamai to Chavadi is carried out with great devotion every Thursday. Visiting Chavadi and paying homage to Sai Baba’s presence is auspicious.

• The temple runs a massive Prasadalaya (dining hall) where free meals are served to all devotees. Thousands of people are fed here every day, irrespective of their caste, creed, or social status. Partaking in the Prasadam (blessed food) is believed to be a blessed experience and an expression of Sai Baba’s teachings of equality and selfless service.

Shirdi Saibaba temple festivals

The temple celebrates various festivals throughout the year, and these festivals attract a large number of devotees from all over the world.

• Ram Navami: One of the most important festivals celebrated at the Shirdi Saibaba Temple is the Ram Navami festival. This festival is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by the temple authorities and devotees. The temple is beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, and special poojas and sevas are performed throughout the day. The festival attracts a large number of devotees, and the temple provides special arrangements for their darshan and comfort.

• Guru Purnima festival. This festival is celebrated to pay tribute to the Guru, and it is believed that on this day, the Guru’s blessings are amplified. The temple authorities perform special poojas and sevas on this day, and devotees offer prayers and seek the Guru’s blessings.

Apart from these festivals, the temple also celebrates various other festivals such as Diwali, Navratri, and Dussehra. These festivals are celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by the temple authorities and devotees.

Savaari customer verified: Other attractions to visit near Shirdi Saibaba temple 

Beyond the divine presence of Shri Saibaba, the town has several other attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the must-visit places near Shirdi Saibaba Temple:

• Dwarkamai Masjid:

Located adjacent to the Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Dwarkamai Masjid holds historical significance as it was the place where Saibaba spent a significant part of his life. This sacred spot showcases the preserved articles used by Saibaba, including his grinding stone (Chakki), cooking utensils, and the sacred fire (Dhuni) that he kept perpetually lit. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere and witness the deep-rooted faith that Saibaba inspired.

• Chavadi:

Chavadi, another essential landmark, served as a resting place for Saibaba every alternate night. It also served as a venue for important meetings and religious discussions during his time. The interior of Chavadi houses a palkhi (palanquin) that was used to carry the portrait of Saibaba in the procession. Exploring this historically significant site allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Saibaba’s life and his connection to the local community.

• Gurusthan:

Gurusthan is the place where Saibaba was first seen as a young boy, sitting under a neem tree, seeking shelter. A shrine has been built around the neem tree, and it holds immense spiritual significance. Devotees believe that praying here can heal ailments and bestow blessings. The atmosphere at Gurusthan has devotion and reverence, providing an ideal setting for contemplation and spiritual introspection.

• Lendi Baug:

A picturesque garden located close to the Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Lendi Baug was frequently visited by Saibaba. The garden is adorned with various plants and trees, including a revered neem tree where Saibaba used to meditate. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll, enjoying the serene surroundings and finding solace amidst nature. The garden also features a marble Deepagraha (lamp), which is kept perpetually lit, symbolizing the eternal light of Saibaba.

Places to visit near Shirdi Saibaba temple by booking a Savaari cab

Shirdi Saibaba Temple is not only a pilgrimage site but also a place with many nearby attractions that are worth exploring. People who visit Shirdi Saibaba Temple, often visit these places as well, as they hold some religious or historical importance. Would you like to see what Shirdi Saibaba Temple has to offer? Book a Savaari car-rental today and let a local driver guide you to the best spots around the town. Here are some of the places to visit near Shirdi Saibaba Temple along with their working hours and entry fees:

• Shani Shingnapur Temple: Located around 70 km from Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Shani Shingnapur Temple is dedicated to Lord Shani and is known for its unique feature of having no doors or locks for the houses and shops in the village. Visitors can perform puja and seek blessings from Lord Shani.
  • Working hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Entry fee: None

• Ellora Caves: Located around 100 km from Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Ellora Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site and showcase a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain architecture. The caves have several intricate carvings and sculptures that depict the ancient Indian culture.
  • Working hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
  • Entry fee: INR 40 for Indian citizens, INR 600 for foreigners

• Ajanta Caves: Located around 110 km from Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Ajanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site and showcase exquisite rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments and frescoes that date back to the 2nd century BC.
  • Working hours: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
  • Entry fee: INR 40 for Indian citizens, INR 600 for foreigners

• Nashik: Located around 90 km from Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Nashik is a city on the banks of the Godavari River and is famous for its historical and religious significance. It is home to several ancient temples, including the Trimbakeshwar Temple, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India.
  • Working hours: Open 24 hours
  • Entry fee: None

• Bhandardara: Located around 75 km from Shirdi Saibaba Temple, Bhandardara is a scenic hill station that offers picturesque views of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. It is a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Bandhara also offers some camping options that are perfect for couples. 
  • Working hours: Open 24 hours
  • Entry fee: None

Savaari customers verified: Best places to eat in Shirdi temple

Shirdi Saibaba Temple is not only a popular pilgrimage site but also a hub for food lovers. Here are some of the best places to eat in Shirdi that offer delicious food at reasonable prices:

• Dwarkamai Cafe: Located within the temple premises, Dwarkamai Cafe is a popular eatery that serves vegetarian food. The cafe is popular for its breakfast items like puri bhaji, misal pav, and vada pav. It also serves thalis and Chinese food. 

• Rajdhani Restaurant, near Saibaba Temple: Rajdhani is a chain of vegetarian restaurants that serves authentic Rajasthani and Gujarati thalis. The restaurant is near the temple and is famous for its delicious food and quick service.

• Sai Swad Restaurant, Near Sun N Sand Hotel: Sai Swad is a vegetarian restaurant that serves North Indian and Chinese cuisine. The restaurant has a comfortable seating arrangement and is famous for its delicious food and friendly service.

• Ahimsa, The Vegan Cafe, Opposite Gurusthan: Ahimsa is a vegan cafe that serves healthy and delicious food. The cafe has a variety of vegan dishes on its menu, including smoothie bowls, salads, wraps, and burgers.

• Hotel Sai Sahavas, Opposite Shirdi Saibaba Temple Nagar Panchayat: Hotel Sai Sahavas is a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. The restaurant has a variety of dishes on its menu, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine.

How to plan a trip to Shirdi Saibaba temple

Planning a trip to Shirdi requires careful consideration and preparation to make the most of your spiritual journey. It is important to choose the right time to visit, keeping in mind the weather and peak seasons. You should also book your travel and accommodation in advance, as Shirdi can get crowded during peak seasons. Research the temple timings and entry fees, and plan your meals accordingly, especially if you have specific dietary requirements. Additionally, it is advisable to pack comfortable clothing and footwear, as you will be spending a lot of time walking around the temple and the city. Finally, hiring a guide can enhance your experience, helping you understand the history and significance of the temple and its rituals. With proper planning, your trip to Shirdi Saibaba Temple can be a memorable and enriching experience.

How to reach Shirdi Saibaba temple

Shirdi Saibaba Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination, and there are several ways to reach the temple. It is advisable to book your travel in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid any last-minute hassles. Here are some options:

By air: The nearest airport to Shirdi Saibaba Temple is the Aurangabad Airport, which is around 130 km away. From there, you can hire a Savaari taxi to Shirdi Saibaba Temple and make your travel convenient. 

By train: Shirdi Saibaba Temple has its own railway station, which is accessible to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai. You can take a train to Shirdi Saibaba Temple from any of these cities. After reaching the station you can book a cab to the temple. 

By road: Shirdi is accessible by road, with regular buses and taxis plying from major cities like Mumbai and Pune. You can also drive to Shirdi Saibaba Temple on your own by booking a Savaari rental car.

By helicopter: Shirdi Saibaba Temple has a helipad, and there are helicopter services available from Mumbai and Pune. This is a convenient and fast option, especially if you are short on time.

Choosing to travel by cab gives you the liberty to stop where you want and also makes your travel comfortable. Pune to Shirdi Saibaba Temple is a very beautiful ride with various food options on the way. Why not try the Savaari cab from Pune to Shirdi Saibaba Temple for a fun road trip?

Hotels to stay in Shirdi Saibaba temple

When choosing a stay option, it is important to consider factors such as location, budget, and amenities. You can also read reviews and check ratings online to get a better idea of the quality of the accommodation. If you are looking for a more traditional and spiritual experience, you can consider staying at a Dharamshala.  These are typically run by charitable trusts and offer basic accommodation at nominal rates. If would you like to explore Dharamshalas and homestays in Shirdi Saibaba Temple, download the Savaari app for all the best recommendations. 

For a more personal and local experience, you can consider staying at a homestay. These are typically run by local families and offer a chance to experience the local culture and cuisine.

Here are some popular stay options near Shirdi Saibaba Temple:

Hotel Name	Distance	Phone Number
Sun-n-Sand	1.5 km approx distance from city centre	+91 2423 258 500
Sai Leela	0.5 km  approx distance from the city centre	+91 2423 259 134
Hotel Sai Mahal Palace	0.8 km approx distance from city centre	+91 2423 258 288
Hotel Sai Miracle	1.2 km approx distance from city centre	+91 2423 258 233
Shri Saibaba	1 km approx distance from city centre	+91 2423 258 500

Nearby road trips from Shirdi Saibaba temple 

Shirdi Saibaba Temple, located in the small town of Shirdi in Maharashtra, India, serves as a spiritual haven for millions of devotees. Beyond the spiritual realm, this sacred place also offers the opportunity for fascinating road trips to nearby destinations. Here’s a list of road trips to take from Shirdi Saibaba Temple:

Location	Distance (Approx.)	Duration (Approx.)
Shirdi Saibaba Temple to Aurangabad	110 km	2.5 hours
Shirdi Saibaba Temple to Nashik	90 km	2 hours
Shirdi Saibaba Temple to Shani Shingnapur	70 km	1.5 hours
Shirdi Saibaba Temple to Bhandardara	70 km	2 hours

In conclusion, a visit to Shirdi Saibaba Temple can be a unique and enriching experience, both spiritually and culturally. The town has a sense of divinity that attracts people from all corners of the world. With a variety of temples, holy sites, and historic landmarks, there is no shortage of things to do and see. Moreover, the delicious food and warm hospitality of the locals make it an even more pleasant experience. Planning a trip to Shirdi Saibaba Temple can be an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impact on your mind and soul. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to embark on a journey that will take you on a spiritual quest like no other.

Useful links

• Book Shirdi Saibaba Temple darshan by helicopter from Mumbai
• News update about Shirdi Saibaba Temple 
• Shirdi Saibaba Temple bookings and other information

Last Updated on January 17, 2024 by Swati Deol