Posted 31 October 2022 in Travel wanderlust

Four best reasons to go on a spiritual trip to the Shirdi

Shirdi is one of those sacred places in India that attracts pilgrims and visitors in equal numbers, not only from Maharashtra's neighbouring towns and cities but also from other country areas. This site, which is the birthplace of the great saint Sri Sai Baba, exudes a distinct air. Locals claim that a mystery 'fakir' (a wanderer known to devotees as Shirdi Sai Baba) arrived in Shirdi in his teens and stayed for more than 60 years. The 'fakir,' who possessed magical abilities, was a master 'yogi' who routinely demonstrated his abilities. Even now, people go to Shirdi because of Sai Baba's modest lifestyle and high values.

If you are planning to visit this revered city in Maharashtra, here are the top four reasons why you should visit Shirdi to indulge in its hallowed surroundings:

1. Presence of Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple is a Shirdi holy monument devoted to Shri Sai Baba, considered one of India's most revered saints. The Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple is dedicated to Sai Baba, revered as God incarnate and reputed to possess magical abilities. The temple, which has a total space of about 200 square metres and receives an average of 25,000 visitors per day, is a popular pilgrimage destination for believers from all over the world. On festivals and other auspicious occasions, visitors swell to a million. The ringing of bells, the special Aarti, the scent of incense sticks all around, and the blessing of the Guru seated on the golden throne, accompanied by Pandits and religious followers, will immerse you in enormous tranquillity and peace of mind. Shri Sai Baba Sansthan Temple is a must-see holy site for anyone who wants to enjoy peace and enjoy being closer to God.

2. The Spirit of Unity at Dwarkamai

Sai Baba devotees consider Dwarkamai to be one of Shirdi's gems. It is the location where the legendary Sai Baba spent much of his life, including his final moments. The spirit of tolerance, acceptance, and openness to all remains alive and well. At first, this location was a derelict mosque with knee-deep holes and collapsing rubble. Baba is the one who renamed it Dwarkamai and reminded everyone that God is one. Dwarkamai is perhaps the only mosque in the world with a temple! As soon as one enters this mosque, they are enveloped in Sai Baba's holy spirit and bestowed with his blessings. One may feel their spirit cleansed of anxieties, insecurities, and negativity as the remarkable and powerful aura of positivity is so relaxing and tranquil. What is fascinating and noteworthy is that individuals of many beliefs and traditions come here to pay homage to Sai Baba and do so in their unique way. Some offer their prayers to the 'dhuni,' or ever-burning sacred fire, while others study their 'japas,' or holy books. This demonstrates that individuals have embraced Baba's teachings and believe in the unity of God.

3. Sneak Peek of Sai Baba's Belongings at Dixit Wada Museum

The Dixit Wada Museum, located in Shirdi's Sansthan complex, is a small museum that houses a range of important things related to Sai Baba's life. Rare black-and-white images of Sai Baba can be found at this museum. Sai Baba's long robes, cooking utensils, bathing stones, phonographic records, leather footwear, and smoking pipe are displayed at the Dixit Wada Museum. For visitors to Shirdi's sacred spot, a visit to the Dixit Wada museum is highly advised. It is intriguing for antiquarians and all of his devotees who get to observe his way of life up close and feel his presence through his physical remains.

4. Unique Doorless Village - Shani Shingnapur

The village of Shani Shingnapur, often known as the "Village with no doors and no locks," is recognized for its faith in Lord Shani, the God of Saturn, who is revered as the village's holy guardian. It is thought that anyone who attempts a theft here will incur the wrath of the supreme power and will be blinded immediately. Even the jewellery and money are kept open, with no lockers. The majority of public restrooms in Shani Shingnapur village square lack doors. The locals agreed to hang a thin curtain near the door for the women's privacy. But not doors, as that would be contrary to the faith. The locals employ a barrier or a sheet at the entrance to keep the dogs and stray cats out.

Best places to stay in Shirdi

Jivanta Hotel, Shirdi: The Jivanta Hotel is one of the preferable hotels in Shirdi. It provides well-equipped rooms with modern furnishings that meet international standards. Amenities such as Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, sitting areas, AC, luxurious bathrooms, and televisions are available here for a very comfortable stay. Jivanta Hotel also has a restaurant where guests may enjoy delectable cuisine.

Shraddha Sarovar Portico, Shirdi: Shraddha Sarovar Portico is one of the country's most well-known hospitality and hotel brands. It has deluxe rooms with exquisite decor and modern furnishings, along with modern conveniences including Wi-Fi, TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, sitting areas, and luxurious bathrooms. The hotel also has two restaurants, one of which specialises in vegetarian cuisine and the other hand-picked culinary delights from throughout the country and the world. An Ayurvedic spa, a meditation room, and an outdoor pool with a slide are the other facilities available at Shraddha Sarovar Portico.
Sun-n-Sand, Shirdi: Sun-n-Sand is a high-end hotel in Shirdi, close to the Sai Baba temple. Standard, Superior, Studio, and Suite rooms are among the sophisticated options available to guests. Sun-n-Sand also has unrivalled leisure amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, children's play area, jogging track, and gaming machines. It also houses Little Italy, Shirdi's only Italian fine dining establishment. Internet access is provided for an additional fee. Plus, all guests at Sun-n-Sand Shirdi receive a complimentary buffet breakfast and a free shuttle service to the Saibaba Temple.

Best places to eat in Shirdi

Little Italy, Shirdi: Little Italy in Shirdi serves a variety of authentic Italian and Mexican cuisine. The venue's interiors are modern, attractive, and expansive, with stylish furnishings and décor. Start your culinary journey with 'Fonduta' or 'Ravioli Crocante,' fried ravioli packed with roasted peppers and cheese. For the main course, try their mouthwatering pasta dishes such as 'Alla Arrabiata,' 'Pasta Barbaresca,' or a wood-fired 'Pizza Mellino.'

Basil Leaves, Shirdi: Basil Leaves is a refined vegetarian restaurant with a clean environment that serves traditional and global dishes. The top recommended cuisines include Gujarati, Chinese, and North Indian cuisines.

Shirdi, home to the venerated saint Shri Satchidanand Sadguru Sainath Maharaj, commonly known as 'Saibaba,' is a prominent stop on Maharashtra's pilgrimage circuit trip. If you admire Sai Baba as a spiritual teacher and want to visit Shirdi, reserve your flight to Shirdi with IndiGo and get ready to experience one of the holiest journeys in India.

How to reach Shirdi?

By air: IndiGo serves Shirdi Airport(IATA: SAG, ICAO: VASD), which is operated by Maharashtra Airport Development Company. From the airport, bus and taxi services are available to traverse to other parts of the city.
By train: The railway station that serves Shirdi is Sainagar Shirdi. It is well connected by train to many important cities, including Mumbai, Nagpur, Lucknow, Thane, Pune, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, and Secunderabad, among others. The famed Shirdi Sai Temple is about 3.1 kilometres from the railway station, and taxis and cabs are readily available to transport you there in nine to 15 minutes.

By road: Shirdi is a short journey from locations like Mumbai (242 km), Pune (187 km), Nashik (90 km), and Aurangabad (109 km). Shirdi may be reached in less than 5 hours from these cities. One can either drive to Shirdi or get a ticket on one of Maharashtra State Transport's buses. These buses run regularly between Nashik, Mumbai, Aurangabad, Ahmednagar, Pune, and Kopargaon. Those who want to invest more money can book private air-conditioned buses.

Best time to visit Shirdi

Winter season: Shirdi is best visited in the winter (November to February), when temperatures range from 12°C to 27°C. Because of the beautiful weather, one can explore the city without hassle.

Summer season: Shirdi's summers (March to May) are scorching and oppressive. The sweltering weather can disrupt your plans, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 42°C and high humidity levels.

Monsoon season: Shirdi is also worth visiting (June to September) during the monsoon season. The miracles of rain leave the entire region lush and green. In addition, every year in July, the Guru Purnima festival is celebrated with great zeal. Shirdi witnesses lovely moments of love, unity, and trust during this time. Pilgrims, locals, and visitors participate in the Guru Purnima Festival with religious zeal.