The Sai Baba Temple in Shirdi, Maharashtra, is one of the most visited and revered pilgrimage sites in India. Devotees from across the world come here seeking peace, blessings, and spiritual fulfillment. The temple is dedicated to Sri Sai Baba, a 19th-century saint who is worshipped as a divine incarnation by Hindus and Muslims alike. Known for his message of universal love, unity, and selfless service, Sai Baba continues to inspire millions even today.
| Temple Name | Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir (Shirdi Sai Baba Temple) |
| Location | Shirdi, Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra, India |
| Deity | Sai Baba of Shirdi |
| Founded By | Devotee Shreemant Gopalrao Buti |
| Year of Completion | 1918 |
| Temple Timings | 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Daily) |
| Main Attractions | Baba’s Samadhi, Marble Idol, Dwarkamai, Chavadi, Lendi Baug |
| Aarti Schedule | Kakad (4:30 AM), Madhyan (12 PM), Dhoop (6 PM), Shej (10:30 PM) |
| Special Festivals | Rama Navami, Guru Purnima, Vijayadashami |
| Entry Fee | Free (Online passes recommended for Aarti) |
| Nearest Airport | Shirdi Airport (14 km), Pune Airport (190 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Sainagar Shirdi |
Who Was Sai Baba?
Sai Baba of Shirdi was a spiritual leader whose teachings transcended religion. Believed to have arrived in Shirdi around 1858, he spent over 60 years healing, guiding, and transforming lives through his wisdom and compassion.
Though little is known about his origins, Sai Baba is considered a sant (saint), fakir, and satguru. He taught through parables and miracles, emphasizing key values like:
- Shraddha (Faith)
- Saburi (Patience)
- Equality of all religions
- Helping the needy and poor
Sai Baba attained mahasamadhi (left his physical body) in 1918. Today, his teachings are followed globally, and his temple at Shirdi has become a symbol of devotion, service, and spiritual harmony.
About the Sai Baba Temple in Shirdi
The Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir (also known as Shirdi Sai Baba Temple) was built by a devotee named Shreemant Gopalrao Buti in 1917–1918. The temple houses the samadhi (final resting place) of Sai Baba.
Timings & Aarti Schedule
The Sai Baba Temple remains open all days of the week. Here is the daily schedule:
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 4:00 AM |
| Kakad Aarti (Morning) | 4:30 AM |
| Midday Aarti | 12:00 PM |
| Dhoop Aarti (Evening) | Sunset (~6:00 PM) |
| Shej Aarti (Night) | 10:30 PM |
| Temple Closes | 11:00 PM |
Note: Devotees can attend darshan and aartis free of cost, but online passes are recommended for convenience during peak days and festivals.
Location:
- Shirdi, Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra, India
- Distance from Mumbai: ~240 km
- Distance from Pune: ~190 km
Key Highlights:
- Sai Baba’s Samadhi (tomb) made of white marble
- Life-size idol of Sai Baba in a seated position, also carved in white marble
- Dwarkamai Masjid where Sai Baba lived
- Chavadi where Baba used to sleep every alternate night
- Lendi Baug, a garden watered by Baba himself
The temple complex also includes prayer halls, museums, and accommodation facilities, making it a comprehensive spiritual center.
Festivals Celebrated
The temple witnesses massive footfall during:
- Rama Navami (March–April)
- Guru Purnima (June–July)
- Vijayadashami – the day Baba attained Mahasamadhi (October)
These events include grand processions, bhajans, and spiritual discourses, making Shirdi a vibrant spiritual hub.
How to Reach Shirdi
By Train:
- Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station connects Shirdi to major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
By Air:
- Shirdi Airport (SAG) – Located just 14 km away
- Aurangabad Airport – 125 km away
- Pune Airport – 190 km away
By Road:
- Frequent buses and taxis from Nashik, Pune, and Mumbai
- Private vehicles can use the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway
Nearby Hotels in Shirdi
Shirdi has accommodation for every budget, ranging from dharmashalas to luxury hotels.
| Hotel Name | Distance from Temple | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Sun-n-Sand Shirdi | 0.5 km | 5-star |
| St Laurn The Spiritual Resort | 0.8 km | 4-star |
| Sai Palace Budget Hotel | 0.3 km | Budget |
| Jivanta Hotel | 0.4 km | Mid-range |
| Sai Ashram Bhakt Niwas | 1 km | Trust-run dharamshala |
Places to Eat in Shirdi
- Prasadalaya (Sai Sansthan) – Offers free and hygienic vegetarian meals to thousands daily.
- Woodlands Restaurant – South Indian food
- Rajdhani Thali – Gujarati & Rajasthani thalis
- Ahimsa – The Vegan Café – Health-conscious and vegan options
Spiritual Tips for Devotees
- Maintain silence inside the temple
- Avoid pushing during aarti/darshan hours
- Use the cloakroom to store mobile phones, as photography is restricted
- Participate in Annadanam (food donation) or seva (volunteer service) for a fulfilling visit
Souvenirs and Shops
Pick up spiritual items like:
- Sai Baba photos, pendants, and idols
- Books on Baba’s teachings
- Sai Satcharitra – Baba’s biography and miracles
- Incense sticks, saffron cloth, and religious CDs
Most items are available inside and around the temple premises at affordable prices.
