Shirdi, located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations. Known worldwide as the home of Shirdi Sai Baba, this holy town attracts millions of devotees each year. People from all over India and the world come to seek blessings, offer prayers, and feel the divine energy that fills the atmosphere.
In 2026, Shirdi is set to welcome even more visitors, thanks to improved travel infrastructure, new flights, upgraded roads, and better train connections. Whether you’re planning a spiritual weekend getaway, a family trip, or a full Maharashtra temple circuit, Shirdi is a must-visit.
In this guide, we explain exactly how to reach Shirdi by air, train, and road, including the best routes, travel tips, interlinking to nearby destinations, and practical advice for planning your journey.
How to Reach Shirdi by Air (Flights to Shirdi and Nearby Airports)
Nearest Airport: Shirdi International Airport (SAG)
Distance from Temple: Approx. 14 km
Travel Time: 25–30 minutes by cab or auto
Good news for air travelers—Shirdi now has its very own airport, which means you can land just minutes away from the temple town. The Shirdi International Airport (SAG) is operational and connects major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
Popular Flights to Shirdi (as of 2026):
- Delhi to Shirdi: ~2 hours (IndiGo, SpiceJet)
- Hyderabad to Shirdi: ~1.5 hours
- Bangalore to Shirdi: ~2 hours
- Chennai to Shirdi: ~2 hours 15 minutes
From the airport, you can hire:
- Private taxis (₹400–₹600)
- Auto-rickshaws (₹150–₹300)
- Shuttle buses operated by MTDC or hotels
Shirdi Airport is small but efficient, with prepaid taxi counters, clean waiting areas, and basic food kiosks. Elephanta Caves Guide – Tips & Info
Alternate Airports (If Flights to Shirdi Are Unavailable):
- Aurangabad Airport (110 km) – More flight options, ideal if planning to explore Ajanta & Ellora Caves.
- Pune Airport (190 km) – Best if coming from South India or connecting via international routes.
- Mumbai Airport (245 km) – Good for international flyers and those combining Shirdi with Mumbai sightseeing.
Pro Tip: Book flights early if traveling during festivals like Guru Purnima, Rama Navami, or Sai Baba’s Samadhi Day. Flight prices rise fast! Elephanta Caves Guide – Tips & Info
Explore Nearby: 5 Days Shirdi–Nashik Tour Package
Read: Travel from Mumbai to Aurangabad – Top Routes
How to Reach Shirdi by Train (Best Routes, Stations, and Timings)
For many travelers, especially those coming from Central, Western, or Southern India, trains are the most economical and comfortable way to reach Shirdi. Thanks to recent developments, Shirdi now has a dedicated railway station close to the town.
Read: Ellora Caves Entry Fee & Visit Info
Nearest Station: Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station (SNSI)
Distance from Temple: Just 3 km
Travel Time: 5–10 minutes by auto or cab
This station is well-connected to major Indian cities including:
- Delhi (via Sainagar Shirdi Express)
- Mumbai (via Devagiri Express, Shirdi Fast Passenger)
- Chennai (via Chennai–Shirdi Express)
- Hyderabad (via Secunderabad–Shirdi Express)
- Bangalore (via Yesvantpur–Shirdi Weekly Express)
- Kolkata (via Howrah–Shirdi Express)
Most trains terminate at or pass through Sainagar Shirdi Station, which has basic amenities like:
- Waiting rooms
- Prepaid auto counters
- Refreshment stalls
- Clean toilets
- Passenger help desks
Alternate Train Stations:
- Kopergaon Railway Station (18 km) – Well-connected and often used if you don’t find direct trains to Shirdi.
- Manmad Junction (58 km) – Useful for travelers from North India or those on religious circuits.
You can take shared autos (₹50–₹100) or taxis from these stations to reach Shirdi in under an hour.
Booking Tip: Use the IRCTC app or site to check real-time availability, or consult with Ease India Trip to arrange your full Shirdi pilgrimage package.
Related Tour: Uttar Pradesh Pilgrimage Tour Package – Extend your pilgrimage from Kashi to Shirdi.
Read: How to Reach Ajanta Caves from Mumbai
How to Reach Shirdi by Road (Buses, Self-Drive, and Private Cabs)
Traveling to Shirdi by road offers flexibility, comfort, and the chance to explore scenic landscapes and nearby attractions like Nashik, Trimbakeshwar, Ajanta Caves, and Ellora.
Read: Ajanta and Ellora Caves – Complete Guide
MSRTC and Private Buses
Bus Terminals: Shirdi Bus Stand is centrally located and walkable from many hotels.
State Transport Buses (MSRTC) run daily from:
- Mumbai (245 km – 6 hrs)
- Pune (190 km – 5 hrs)
- Nashik (90 km – 2 hrs)
- Aurangabad (110 km – 3 hrs)
You can also book Volvo AC and Non-AC sleeper buses through portals like RedBus, Goibibo, or MakeMyTrip.
Read: Ajanta Caves Entry Fee & Timings Guide
Self-Drive and Taxi Options
- Mumbai to Shirdi by car: Route via Ghoti or Nashik on NH160; scenic and safe with multiple food stops.
- Pune to Shirdi: Via Sangamner (NH60) – smooth road, takes ~5 hours.
- Ahmedabad to Shirdi: ~600 km – best done as a two-day journey with a night stop in Surat or Nashik.
Cab Options: One-way taxis cost ₹3,500–₹5,000 from Mumbai or Pune depending on car size. Many travelers book round-trip cab packages with sightseeing included.
Travel Tip: If driving yourself, start early in the morning to avoid city traffic and maximize temple darshan time.
Suggested Read: 5 Days Maharashtra Jyotirlinga Tour
Best Time to Visit Shirdi + Tips for Darshan
While you can visit Shirdi year-round, the best months are:
- October to March: Cool and pleasant weather
- April to June: Hot but manageable; ideal if you prefer fewer crowds
- July to September: Monsoon rains bring greenery but also occasional transport delays
Key Festivals in Shirdi:
- Rama Navami (March–April)
- Guru Purnima (July)
- Sai Baba’s Samadhi Day (October)
During these times, expect:
- Larger crowds
- Longer darshan lines
- High hotel demand
Travel Tips:
- Book your Sai Darshan Slot online at https://online.sai.org.in to avoid waiting.
- Stay at hotels near the temple for walking access.
- Many packages include darshan, VIP passes, and guided tours—ask for them when booking.
- If traveling with elderly people, request wheelchair assistance at the temple gate.
Read: Bhaja Caves Travel Guide – What to Know
Popular Travel Routes to Shirdi at a Glance
| From City | Distance | By Air | By Train | By Road |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 245 km | (1 hr) | (6–8 hrs) | (6 hrs drive) |
| Pune | 190 km | (1 hr) | (5 hrs) | (4.5–5 hrs) |
| Hyderabad | 630 km | (1.5 hrs) | (11–13 hrs) | (12 hrs) |
| Bengaluru | 1025 km | (2 hrs) | (24 hrs, few direct) | (14–16 hrs) |
| Delhi | 1300 km | (2 hrs) | (Shirdi Express) | Not recommended |
Final Travel Checklist Before You Go
Confirm travel and accommodation 15–30 days in advance
Apply for online Sai Baba darshan slots
Carry valid ID, masks, sanitizer, and temple dress code attire
Check weather conditions, especially during monsoon
Keep cash handy – some local shops don’t accept UPI
Read: Top Travel Destinations in Maharashtra
Plan Your Custom Shirdi Tour in 2026
Whether you’re flying in from Delhi, arriving by train from Chennai, or taking a road trip from Pune, Ease India Trip can help you plan your complete Shirdi pilgrimage experience, including:
- Flights + hotel stay
- Darshan arrangements
- Car rentals and guided sightseeing
- Extensions to Nashik, Trimbakeshwar, Ellora, and Ajanta
Explore Packages Now:
🔗 4 Days Shirdi–Nashik–Trimbakeshwar Tour
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