Table of Contents
Unveiling the Spiritual Haven: Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir
The Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir, which is tucked away in the charming Maharashtra town of Shirdi, is a spiritual beacon that draws devotees from all over the world who are looking for comfort, blessings, and enlightenment. This is your tour guide to this hallowed temple.
Reachability
By Air: Shirdi has its Airport, approximately 14 kilometers away from Sai Temple. Visitors can also access Shirdi via Pune Airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, or Aurangabad Airport.
By Train: The Sai Nagar Shirdi Railway Station connects the town to various cities across India. It is approximately 3 kilometers from the Mandir and is more accessible and well-connected. However, Kopargaon (KPG) railway station has more trains all over. It is 19 kilometers away from Sai Temple.
Mumbai-Shirdi Vandebharat Express is also one of the best options to travel between Mumbai and Shirdi. It takes about 5 hours to reach Shirdi from Mumbai.
By Road: Shirdi is well-connected by roadways. State-run buses and private taxis ply regularly from nearby cities like Nashik, Aurangabad, Mumbai, and Pune to Shirdi.
Mandir Timings
The Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir welcomes devotees throughout the day. The timings are as follows:
- Opening Time: The Mandir opens its doors early in the morning at 4:00 AM.
- Darshan Schedule: Devotees can attend various rituals and darshans throughout the day until the Mandir closes at 11:30 PM.
- Aarti Timings: Daily aartis such as Kakad Aarti, Madhyan Aarti, Dhoop Aarti, and Shej Aarti are performed at specific times.
Please note that these timings are subject to change during festivals, special occasions, or at the discretion of the Mandir authorities
Online Booking
To ease the pilgrimage experience, devotees can book darshan and aarti passes online through the official Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust website link https://online.sai.org.in/#/login The cost of online Darshan is Rs. 200 per person. Online bookings allow visitors to secure preferred darshan timings and avoid long waiting periods. Though the Online Darshan line has a separate queue than the normal queue but it merges with the Main queue near Shani gate.
There is also an option to book online Aarti which will cost as below:
· Morning aarti Rs 600
· Madhyan aarti Rs 400
· Dhoop aarti Rs 400
· Shej aarti Rs 400
Aarti Timings
· Morning aarti 4.30 AM
· Madhyan aarti 12.00 PM
· Dhoop aarti 6.00 PM
· Shej aarti 10.30 PM
The Famous Prasadalaya of Shirdi
The food or Bhojan served at Prasadalaya is regarded as the Prasad of Sainath. Bhojan is first devoted to Sai and then to the proponents.
There are two types of veggies, rice, chapati, dal, and dessert on the tray. For a very low price of Rs. 10 for adults and Rs. 5 for children, it is served. In addition, the meal’s quality and cleanliness are given top priority.
Additionally, the well-known Annadaan Kaksh is another location that has been set up by the Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust. For those guests who are unable to pay the fees, it provides complimentary meals. In an effort to ensure that no one ever leaves the residence of their spiritual leader hungry, the Sai Baba Prasadalaya tries to feed every single disciple of Sai who comes to Shirdi with the tasty Prasad.
Accommodation and Facilities
The Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir complex offers various accommodation options ranging from budget to deluxe rooms, catering to the diverse needs of pilgrims. Additionally, the complex includes dining facilities and other amenities for the convenience of devotees.
There will be no problem with the accommodations as there are plenty of hotels (every budget). no problem regarding the food as there will be multiple cuisine restaurants near the complex area.
The Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust runs a number of Dharamshalas in Shirdi, Maharashtra, to offer pilgrims visiting the Sai Baba Temple reasonably priced lodging. The trust is in charge of these Dharamshalas, which provide pilgrims with affordable accommodation.
The Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust in Shirdi runs the following important Dharamshalas in Shirdi:
- Sai Ashram Bhaktaniwas: This is one of the largest accommodations managed by the trust. It offers various room options, including dormitories and individual rooms, at different rates to suit the needs and budgets of different visitors. The facilities are generally well-maintained and aim to provide a comfortable stay for pilgrims.
- Shirdi Sai Baba Prasadalaya Dharamshala: This Dharamshala is also managed by the Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Trust and provides affordable accommodation options to devotees and visitors. It typically offers basic amenities and clean rooms for pilgrims.
- Dwarawati Bhaktiniwas: Another accommodation facility operated by the trust, Dwarawati Bhaktiniwas, provides lodging options for devotees. It aims to offer a peaceful and comfortable stay for pilgrims visiting the holy town of Shirdi.
Important Tips for Pilgrims
- Crowd Management: Shirdi experiences heavy footfall, especially during festivals and weekends. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid crowds.
- Photography and Mobile Phones: Photography inside the Mandir premises is restricted. The free locker facilities are being provided by the Trust where devotees can submit their mobile phones or cameras before darshan.
The Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir is a calm haven for people seeking heavenly benefits; it is an embodiment of spirituality, faith, and devotion. Arrange your journey to this hallowed place, lose yourself in adoration, and feel Shirdi’s spiritual aura.
Nearby places to visit while in Shirdi
Five Blessed Houses that Baba took Biksha from
Sakharam Patil Shelke’s House: This property has a west-facing entrance and is close to Baba’s Chavadi. Sakharam was a landowner with great riches, a farmer, and a deep devotion to Baba.
Vaman Rao Gondkar’s House: This house is located on the right side, across from Sakharam Shelke’s residence. Shirdi is where Vaman Rao was raised and born. His family had land and were affluent farmers. According to his relatives, they possessed 500 acres of property in and around Shirdi. They claim to be the owners of Lendi Baugh and the nearby territories as well. Lendi Baugh was sold to Moreshwar Pradhan, who thereafter gave it to the Sansthan. Baba took Bhiksha from one of the blessed houses, which is this one.
Bayyaji Appa Kote Patil’s House (SAI KUTIR): “Sai Kutir,” his home, is located at the end of Kote Gully. His father was a devout follower of Baba, therefore he was close to Baba from an early age, having been born in Shirdi. At age eleven, he began serving Baba.
Bayaja Bai Ganapath Kote Patil’s House (BAYAJA MAA): This residence is next to “Sai Kutir.” Following her marriage to Ganapath Kote Patil, a wealthy landowner, Bayaja Maa moved to Shirdi. She was a lovely, obedient wife who took care of all the domestic duties. Above all, she took great pleasure in preparing meals for her visitors and family members. She was the first woman to feed Baba when he initially arrived in Shirdi, understanding that “food is Brahma.”
Nandaram Marwari Sanklecha’s House: By trade, Nandaram was a wealthy landowner and moneylender. However, he was a polite and compassionate man. Nandaram’s grandfather arrived in Shirdi from Rajasthan (Kharade village), where he was raised until his birth in 1866. When he got close to Baba in 1875, his devotion grew exponentially. Baba occupied most of his time.
In addition to the revered Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir, there are several nearby attractions that visitors can explore:
Description: Dwarkamai is a sacred site closely associated with Sai Baba. It served as his abode during his stay in Shirdi. Pilgrims can witness the oil painting of Sai Baba, his stone grinder, and the dhuni (eternal flame) that he maintained.
1. Shani Shingnapur
Description: Located approximately 70 kilometers from Shirdi, Shani Shingnapur is famous for the Shani Temple dedicated to Lord Shani (the planet Saturn). The village is known for its unique tradition where houses have no doors, as it is believed that Lord Shani protects the village from thefts and misfortunes.
2. Khandoba Temple
Description: The Khandoba Temple, situated in Shirdi, is dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a regional deity revered by both Hindus and Muslims. It’s an ancient temple and an essential part of Shirdi’s religious heritage.
3. Wet N Joy Water Park
Description: For those seeking recreation and fun, the Wet N Joy Water Park in Shirdi offers thrilling water rides, slides, and entertainment for visitors of all ages, making it a perfect place for a day of family enjoyment.
4. Dixit Wada Museum
Description: This museum, located near the Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir, showcases various articles and belongings of Sai Baba, providing insights into his life and teachings. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring photographs, utensils, and personal items associated with Sai Baba.
5. Lendi Baug
Description: Lendi Baug is a beautiful garden where Sai Baba used to spend a lot of time meditating. It houses a neem tree that Sai Baba planted and a Datta Mandir. The serene ambiance makes it an ideal place for peaceful reflection.
6. Nashik
Description: Approximately 90 kilometers from Shirdi, Nashik is a prominent city known for its religious significance and historical heritage. It’s famous for the Kumbh Mela, ancient temples, vineyards, and scenic beauty.
7. Trimbakeshwar Temple
Description: Trimbakeshwar Temple, located in Nashik, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and holds immense religious significance for Hindu devotees. The temple architecture and spiritual ambiance attract pilgrims from various parts of the country.
This blog aims to provide essential information for pilgrims planning a visit to the Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir, encompassing timings, reachability options, online booking, and practical tips for a fulfilling spiritual journey.
Plan your Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir Trip soon to get the Blessings of Sai Baba.
Jai Sai Ram!!!
For Trips to other destinations please visit https://www.triphintsguru.com
