Shirdi is a top pilgrimage site in India, famous for the Sai Baba Temple. Thousands visit each year. If you’re planning a trip, knowing the best way to get there is crucial. You have a few good options: flying, taking the train, or driving.
Flying is quick and convenient. When you fly, you save a lot of time. Trains are great for connectivity. You’ll likely find a direct route to Shirdi if you choose the train. Driving gives you the most freedom. You can start your journey at any time and explore along the way. Shirdi is a top pilgrimage site in India, famous for the Sai Baba Temple. Thousands visit each year. If you’re planning a trip, knowing the best way to get there is crucial. You have a few good options: flying, taking the train, or driving.
| Mode of Transport | Route/Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| By Air | Shirdi Airport (15 km), Pune Airport (200 km), Mumbai Airport (240 km) | Direct flights available; road/train required from Pune/Mumbai. |
| By Train | Sainagar Shirdi (3 km) | Direct trains from major cities. |
| Manmad Junction (55 km) | Requires road transfer to Shirdi. | |
| By Road | Bus and Taxi from Mumbai (240 km), Pune (200 km) | 4-6 hours by road. Frequent bus services. |
Reaching Shirdi by Air
Nearest airports and available airlines
Shirdi is close to two main airports: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai and Pune International Airport. The Mumbai airport is about 240 kilometers away from Shirdi. It’s a busy airport and connects many cities around the world. Airlines like Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo fly there often.
Pune airport is roughly 200 kilometers from Shirdi. Airlines such as GoAir and Vistara have regular flights to this airport. You can quickly get to Shirdi from both airports by taxi, bus, or rental car. This makes the journey to the sacred town straightforward for visitors from near and far.
Traveling to Shirdi by Train (Nearest Railway Station)
Major train routes and boarding stations
Many train routes connect major cities in India to Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station, the closest one for those visiting Shirdi, a popular pilgrimage site. Key train routes include the Howrah-Sainagar Shirdi Express from Kolkata and the Sainagar Shirdi Chennai Express from southern India. From the west, there’s the Ahmedabad-Shirdi Express, and from the north, the Pathankot-Shirdi Express runs twice a week. These trains offer a range of sleeping and seating options to suit different budgets.
Key stations like New Delhi, Mumbai CST, and Bangalore provide great links, making it easy for people from all over India to start their journey to Shirdi.
By Road to Shirdi
Traveling to Shirdi by road is easy thanks to a strong network of highways and regular bus service. You can take NH160, connecting Shirdi to major cities like Mumbai and Pune. Whether you’re a pilgrim or a tourist, the ride will be smooth. There are also many buses, both government and private ones, that suit any budget or preference.
Key highways and bus services
Major highways to Shirdi include National Highway 160, which is a direct route for travelers. State Highway 10 also helps connect more parts of Maharashtra to Shirdi.
If you prefer buses, you have plenty of choices. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation, or MSRTC, runs frequent buses from big cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik to Shirdi. Private bus companies also offer services. They have different levels of comfort, from essential to luxury, to fit your budget and preferences. These buses are a reliable way to get to Shirdi, especially if you’re visiting the famous Sai Baba Temple.
| City | Distance from Shirdi | Travel Time (by Road) | Travel Time (by Train) | Travel Time (by Air) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,240 km | 24-26 hours | 18-20 hours | 2-3 hours (via Pune/Mumbai) |
| Mumbai | 240 km | 5-6 hours | 6-7 hours | 1 hour |
| Bengaluru | 1,030 km | 18-20 hours | 20-22 hours | 2-3 hours (via Pune/Mumbai) |
| Chennai | 1,190 km | 22-24 hours | 24-26 hours | 2-3 hours (via Pune/Mumbai) |
| Hyderabad | 600 km | 12-14 hours | 14-16 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Kolkata | 1,750 km | 30-32 hours | 28-30 hours | 3-4 hours (via Pune/Mumbai) |
| Ahmedabad | 450 km | 8-10 hours | 9-11 hours | 1-2 hours |
Conclusion
In conclusion, going to Shirdi is a profoundly spiritual journey that appeals to both the faithful and sightseers. You can get there by train, plane, or car, and you’ll find good roads and signs to help you on your way. There’s a travel option for everyone, regardless of your needs or preferences.
Once you arrive, the calm surroundings and Sai Baba’s presence create a special experience that combines spiritual peace with a touch of history. This guide is here to help make planning your trip to Shirdi easier and ensure that your trip is just as rewarding as being there. Make sure to check for any travel updates or advisories before you leave.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.