Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Shirdi is one of the most visited religious destinations in India and an absolute must-visit from Mumbai. Located about 240 km from Mumbai in Ahmednagar district, Shirdi receives over 25,000 to 40,000 devotees every single day, making it one of the richest and most visited temples in the world.
About Sai Baba of Shirdi
Sai Baba of Shirdi was a spiritual master and saint who lived in Shirdi during the late 19th and early 20th century. He is revered by both Hindus and Muslims and his teachings of love, compassion, and unity continue to inspire millions worldwide. Sai Baba is believed to have lived in Shirdi from around 1858 until his Mahasamadhi (passing) on October 15, 1918. His famous saying is Sabka Malik Ek (One God governs all).
History of Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
The Samadhi Mandir in Shirdi was built over the place where Sai Baba attained Mahasamadhi. The original marble shrine was built shortly after his passing in 1922. Over the decades, the entire temple complex has been expanded with a new Samadhi Mandir built in 1954. Today the Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Trust manages the entire complex which includes the main Samadhi Mandir, Dwarkamai mosque, Chavadi, and the Gurusthan.
Temple Timings
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is open all year round. The main Samadhi Mandir timings are from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. Key aartis performed daily include Kakad Aarti at 5:15 AM, Madhyan Aarti at 12:00 PM, Dhoop Aarti at sunset around 6:00 PM, and Shej Aarti at 10:30 PM. Darshan continues throughout the day and night except during aarti times.
Darshan Information
Free darshan is available for all devotees. Online darshan passes and special darshan tickets for VIP/priority entry can be booked through the official Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan website. The darshan queue on normal days takes about 1 to 2 hours. On weekends and festivals it can take 4 to 6 hours or more. Plan accordingly and book accommodation in advance.
How to Reach Shirdi from Mumbai
Shirdi is approximately 240 km from Mumbai. By road via NH61, the journey takes about 4.5 to 5 hours. State Transport (ST) buses and private luxury buses run regularly between Mumbai (Dadar, CST) and Shirdi throughout the day and night. By train, the Shirdi Express and other trains run from Mumbai CST and Dadar to Sainagar Shirdi station directly. By air, Shirdi has its own airport with flights from major cities.
Important Sites in Shirdi Complex
Apart from the main Samadhi Mandir, the Shirdi complex includes Dwarkamai - the old mosque where Sai Baba lived and kept a sacred dhuni (fire), Chavadi - where Sai Baba used to sleep on alternate nights, Gurusthan - the place where Sai Baba was first seen as a young man, Lendi Garden and Baug - where Sai Baba used to walk daily, and Khandoba Temple at the entrance of Shirdi.
Flowers for Sai Baba Pooja
Offering fresh flowers at Sai Baba's samadhi is a deeply devotional practice for millions of Sai devotees. Sai Baba is especially fond of roses and fresh flower garlands. Popular flower offerings at Shirdi include:
- Fresh red and white rose garlands
- Marigold (zendu) garlands
- Mixed flower chaadar for the samadhi
- Jasmine mogra strings
- Rose petals for sprinkling
- Lotus flowers
Mumbai Florist Hub provides fresh rose garlands, marigold garlands, jasmine strings, and complete Sai Baba pooja flower sets. For your daily Sai Baba prayers at home, subscribe to our weekly or monthly flower delivery plan and get fresh flowers delivered every morning across Mumbai - Bandra, Andheri, Vile Parle, Khar, and all West Mumbai areas.
FAQ
How far is Shirdi from Mumbai? Shirdi is approximately 240 km from Mumbai and takes about 4.5 to 5 hours by road or about 5 to 6 hours by train.
What is the dress code at Shirdi Sai Baba Temple? There is no strict dress code but modest and decent clothing is expected. Revealing clothing is not permitted inside the temple.
Can I book accommodation at Shirdi through the Trust? Yes, the Shirdi Sai Baba Sansthan Trust provides affordable accommodation for pilgrims at various dharamshalas on the temple campus. Bookings can be made online.
Shirdi is a destination that transforms the heart and soul of every devotee who visits with faith. Make the short journey from Mumbai to experience the divine blessings of Sai Baba. Carry fresh flowers as your offering and let Mumbai Florist Hub be your floral partner for all your daily Sai puja needs.
