Shirdi is a holy town in Maharashtra that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is the home of the great saint, Sai Baba, and is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. There are many things to do in Shirdi that cater to the spiritual, cultural, and adventurous interests of visitors. In this blog, we will explore the top 15 things to do in Shirdi.
List of Things to do in Shirdi
Visit the Sai Baba Temple
The Sai Baba Temple is the most popular attraction in Shirdi. It is the final resting place of Sai Baba and is believed to be a source of spiritual energy and blessings. The temple complex includes several shrines, a museum, and a meditation hall. Visitors can participate in the daily rituals and darshan, which involves viewing the idol of Sai Baba from a distance. The temple is open all year round, but it can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.
Explore the Shirdi Sai Baba Museum
The Shirdi Sai Baba Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the life and teachings of Sai Baba. The museum showcases a collection of his personal belongings, photographs, and other artifacts that offer insights into his life and philosophy. The museum is located in the same complex as the Sai Baba Temple and is open every day except Mondays.
Take a tour of the Sai Heritage Village
The Sai Heritage Village is a living museum that recreates the village life of Sai Baba’s time. It features a collection of traditional houses, tools, and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the daily life of the people of that era. Visitors can take a guided tour of the village and learn about the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the people of that time.
Visit the Dwarkamai Masjid
The Dwarkamai Masjid is a historic mosque that was used by Sai Baba as his dwelling place during his stay in Shirdi. The mosque is located next to the Sai Baba Temple and is considered to be a sacred place by devotees. Visitors can see the stone on which Sai Baba used to sit and meditate, as well as the dhuni or sacred fire that he kept burning all the time.
Take a walk to Khandoba Mandir
Khandoba Mandir is a small temple located near the Sai Baba Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a Hindu deity who was Sai Baba’s guru. Visitors can take a short walk from the Sai Baba Temple to the Khandoba Mandir and experience the local culture and traditions.
Enjoy the sunset at Shani Shingnapur
Shani Shingnapur is a small village located about 70 km from Shirdi. It is famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Shani, the Hindu god of justice. The temple is unique in that it has no roof or doors, and the idol of Lord Shani is placed on a platform under the open sky. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunset at Shani Shingnapur and offer prayers to Lord Shani.
Attend the evening aarti at the Sai Baba Temple
The evening aarti at the Sai Baba Temple is a daily ritual that takes place at sunset. It is a beautiful ceremony that involves lighting of lamps and incense, and offering prayers to Sai Baba. The aarti is a popular event, so it’s best to arrive early to get a good spot. The ceremony is accompanied by devotional songs and chants, and is a great way to experience the spiritual energy of Shirdi.
Visit the Lendi Baug
Lendi Baug is a beautiful garden located on the outskirts of Shirdi. It is believed to be the place where Sai Baba used to meditate and spend time with his devotees. The garden has a variety of plants and trees, including neem, tamarind, and banyan, and is a serene and peaceful place to spend some time.
Take a dip in the Sai Baba Tirth
The Sai Baba Tirth is a sacred water tank located within the Sai Baba Temple complex. It is believed to be a source of spiritual energy and blessings, and many devotees take a dip in the tank before entering the temple. The water in the tank is said to have healing properties, and it’s a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking spiritual healing and rejuvenation.
Experience the local cuisine
During tour to Shirdi experience delicious vegetarian cuisine, which is served in many of the local restaurants and eateries. Some of the must-try dishes include the Shirdi Masala Dosa, the Thalipeeth, and the Maharashtrian-style Poha. There are also several street food stalls and vendors selling snacks and sweets that are unique to the region.
Visit the Shani Shingnapur Temple
Apart from the village of Shani Shingnapur, there is also a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shani located in the village. The temple is around 70 km from Shirdi and is considered to be one of the most powerful temples dedicated to Lord Shani in the country. The temple is unique as it does not have any idol or deity, instead, it has a black stone that is believed to be Lord Shani.
Attend the Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir Aarti
The Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir is located in the heart of Shirdi and is the place where the mortal remains of Sai Baba are kept. The Aarti at the Samadhi Mandir is one of the most popular attractions in Shirdi. It takes place twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. The Aarti is a beautiful ceremony where the priest offers prayers to Sai Baba’s idol and lights lamps and incense sticks.
Visit the Wet N Joy Water Park
If you’re looking for some fun and adventure, then the Wet N Joy Water Park in Shirdi is a must-visit attraction. The water park has several rides and slides, including the Wave Pool, the Lazy River, and the Tornado. It’s a great place to spend a day with your family and friends and beat the heat during the hot summer months.
Take a day trip to Nashik
Nashik is a beautiful city located around 80 km from Shirdi. It’s known for its historic temples, including the Trimbakeshwar Temple, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country. Nashik is also famous for its vineyards and wineries, so you can take a wine tour and sample some of the best wines in the region.
Visit the Sai Baba Chavadi
The Sai Baba Chavadi is another important shrine located in Shirdi. It is believed to be the place where Sai Baba used to spend his alternate nights. The Chavadi has a beautiful architecture and is decorated with paintings and photographs of Sai Baba. It’s a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the life and teachings of Sai Baba.
Conclusion
Shirdi is a unique and spiritual destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From exploring the Sai Baba Temple to experiencing the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Shirdi. We hope this list of top 10 things to do in Shirdi has inspired you to plan your next trip to this holy town. For more information about things to do in Shirdi and tour packages to Shirdi contact Astha Tourism.