Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Shirdi: 5 Places that you must visit
Located 122 km from Nashik, Shirdi is synonymous with Shri Sai Baba- the modern-daysaint and mystic, who is deeply revered and worshiped by many Indians. Sai Baba spent decades of his life in Shirdi, emancipating people and being their spiritual guide. Shirdi is where he preached the message of brotherhood and humanity, which still resonates today.
We take great pride in the fact that the Sai Palace chain of hotels is named in honor of Sai Baba. And with our two hotels in Shirdi, we cater to visitors to one of India’s biggest pilgrimage destinations.
Devotees of Sai Baba flock to this divine city, eagerly seeking a glimpse of the Lord in all his majestic glory at the renowned Shirdi Sai Baba Temple. However, beyond the temple, Shirdi has numerous culturally and spiritually significant sites. Read on to discover the 5 places you must see during your visit to this sacred city!
1. Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple
Popularly known as Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, this holy shrine invites visitors from all over the country. Known for its rich spiritual heritage, it is also one of the wealthiest temples in the world. Notably, its prasadalaya, or dining hall, stands as one of the largest kitchens globally, serving divine meals to the faithful. So do embrace the divine blessings of Sai Baba at this extraordinary place of devotion!
Entry fee: Free darshan & paid darshan is also available.
Visiting time: 4:00 – 11:00 pm, every day.
2. Shani Shignapur
Just a two-hour journey away from Shirdi lies the quaint village of Shani Shignapur, which you might know as the “village without door locks”! This is because the guardian deity Lord Shanaishwar is believed to safeguard the villagers and dispels all misdeeds. This village is home to the historic Shani temple, which holds great significance in India’s religious landscape. Whether a devotee or not, you must be a part of this 400-year-old tradition and offer your respects to Lord Shani during your visit to Shirdi.
Entry Fees: Entry is free.
Visiting Timing: 12 noon to 12 midnight, everyday
3. Trimbakeshwar Temple
Located in Trimbak Village, about 116 km from Shirdi, Trimbakeshwar is special for many reasons. First, it is one of the twelve jyotirlingas and second, it is the only swambhu or “self-existing” one of the twelve. The temple as we know it today, was built by the third Peshwa Balaji Bajirao on the site of the old temple. Situated on the foot of a holy mountain named Brahamagiri, this temple holds a special place in the hearts of all Shiva devotees. Anyone visiting Shirdi must, without a doubt, seek Lord Shiva’s blessings at this venerable shrine.
Entry Fees: Entry is free. You can get a VIP Darshan pass for Rs 200.
Visiting Time: 5.30 am – 9:00 pm, every day.
4. Lendi Baug
To truly understand and appreciate the life of Sai Baba, it is not enough to solely seek his blessings at the temple. You must also immerse yourself in the surroundings of Lendi Baug, a serene garden on the Shirdi-Manmad highway. Lendi Baug holds deep significance as the place where Sai Baba would take leisurely strolls, and taking care of the garden’s plants. Within this garden, you will also discover the samadhi of Sai Baba’s beloved horse, Shyam Sunder, as well as the sacred well dug by Baba himself, known as ‘Baba’s Shivdi.’ So make sure to explore this blessed garden, as you will gain a deeper insight into Sai Baba’s life.
Entry Fees: Entry is free.
Visiting Time: 4:00 am to 11: 00 pm, every day.
5. Dixit Wada Museum
Within the heart of the Sai Sansthan Temple lies a hidden gem that often goes unnoticed by visitors- the Dixit Wada museum. This site displays a treasure trove of artifacts closely associated with Shri Sai Baba. From his iconic kafni (robe) and padukas (footwear) to his bathing stones, the museum showcases a personal collection that brings you closer to the life of the great saint. And what could be better than learning his untold stories while you tour Shirdi?
Entry Fees: Entry is free.
Visiting Time: 10:00 am to 6 pm. Everyday.
Making your Shirdi trip better, are two of our premier hotels, which are ideally located near the Sai Mandir and these major landmarks. The Sai Palace Budget Hotel is situated just 3 km from the Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station, a mere 750 m from the Shirdi Bus Depot, and a short 33.4 km from the Shirdi Airport. Similarly, the Sai Palace Express Hotel is conveniently positioned 15 km from the Shirdi Airport, a mere 3 km from the Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station, and just 1 km from the Shirdi Bus Depot. Well, Shirdi is not just a place; it holds the true essence of faith. As a popular saying goes, “Shirdi wahi aate hai, jinhe Sai Baba bulate hain” (“Only those who are called by Sai Baba make it to Shirdi”). Setting foot in this sacred city is truly a blessing. May your journey to this holy city be filled with divine experiences and spiritual fulfillment!
No Comments