Shirdi, the abode of Sai Baba

Located in Maharashtra, Shirdi is a small town with a profound legacy. Just under 300km from Mumbai, it is well connected to other major cities in the state and draws thousands of devotees every day. This was once the home of the revered spiritual leader, Sai Baba, whose teachings of unity, compassion, and faith resonate across religious lines. His final resting place, the Shirdi Sai Baba temple, also known as Shree Samadhi Mandir, is a place of deep devotion and peace.

Inside the Shirdi temple

Sai Baba is believed by many to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Though the details of his early life remain a mystery, he spent most of his adult life in Shirdi—returning in 1858 after a brief disappearance—and passed away in 1918. His tomb, or samadhi, is located within the temple, making it the most significant site for his devotees.

Inside the Shirdi Sai Baba temple, a marble idol of Baba sits adorned with an embroidered robe, gold crown, and fresh garlands. The temple itself is architecturally modest, but its steeple is covered in gold, signifying its spiritual and cultural importance.

Shirdi Sai Baba temple aarti timings

The temple holds four daily aartis (prayer services), each marking a time of day:

• Kakad Aarti (morning) – 4:30am

• Madhyan Aarti (afternoon) – 12:00pm

• Dhup Aarti (evening) – 6:30pm

• Shej Aarti (night) – 10:30pm

In addition, a Palanquin procession is held every Thursday at 9:15pm, drawing crowds who time their visit to experience this weekly highlight.

Other spiritual places to visit in Shirdi

Beyond the main Shirdi temple, the town has several other significant landmarks associated with Sai Baba’s life:

• Dwarkamai – A humble mosque where Baba lived for years, still preserved in its original form.

• Dixit Wada Museum – A collection of photographs and objects from Sai Baba’s daily life.

• Baba Chavadi – The resting place Baba frequented during his final years.

• Sai Heritage Village – A recreated village experience with life-sized displays that depict scenes from Sai Baba’s life.

How to go to Shirdi Sai Baba temple

• By air: The nearest airport is Shirdi International Airport (SAG), just around 14 km from the temple. Alternatively, Aurangabad Airport is about 130 km away, and Pune Airport is roughly 200 km—both are good options if direct flights to Shirdi aren’t available. Taxis and buses are available from all.

• By rail: Shirdi has its own railway station (Sainagar Shirdi), with direct trains from major cities.

• By road: Shirdi is well connected via buses from Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and other parts of Maharashtra. Overnight buses are a popular choice.