Shirdi is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, being the abode of Shri Sai Baba. Thousands of pilgrims visit here daily from various regions of the nation to obtain blessings. The serene environment, spiritual significance and divine energy render Shirdi a site people return to visit repeatedly.
If you are starting your journey from Pune, the distance is ideal for a short excursion. Most people like to take this journey via road because it is convenient and provides them with the freedom to halt at any places en route. With good planning, your Pune to Shirdi journey can be relaxing and enjoyable.
Pune to Shirdi Distance
The road distance from Pune to Shirdi is approximately 200 km. Driving or taking a bus would normally take between 4 and 5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The usual route is through NH60, crossing towns such as Sangamner. The route has smooth roads and great scenery of rural Maharashtra. One can take the train as well, traveling from 5 to 6 hours. Road travel is preferred by most pilgrims as it provides the facility for stopovers at will. Shirdi is a well-known spiritual place, so it’s good to organize your journey in advance to have a smooth trip.
Pune to Shirdi Route
There are two popular routes for travelers:
Pune – Chakan – Manchar – Sangamner – Shirdi (via NH60)
It is the route of preference as the roads are good and well-finished.
It goes through small towns and there are good places for eating and resting stops.
Pune – Ahmednagar – Shirdi (via NH753F)
A bit shorter in length but traffic may be heavier in certain sections.
Good if you wish to add Ahmednagar to your itinerary.
Both routes offer fuel pumps, food stalls, and clean toilets en route, so are good for family vacations.
Read More: Top 10 Places to Visit Near Pune
Best Time to Visit Shirdi
Shirdi may be visited at any time of the year, but the experience is more enjoyable when the weather is fine.
October to March: This is the best season as the weather is cold and ideal for viewing and darshan.
April to June: Summer seasons can be hot in the daytime but the mornings and evenings are bearable.
July to September: The monsoon season has moderate to heavy rain, causing the environment to be green and fresh. If you are going during this time, take an umbrella or raincoat.
Several devotees schedule their visit during significant festivals such as Guru Purnima, Ram Navami, and Vijayadashami when the temple holds special festivals.
Travel Facilities from Pune to Shirdi
1. Private Car
If you own your car, then driving to Shirdi provides you with the advantage of whenever you start and stop. You can make stops at interesting places during the way and go at your own convenience. This is great for small families or for couples.
Tempo Traveller
In case of group travel, a Tempo Traveller is convenient. It has sufficient seating, air conditioning and room for luggage.
Ac Tempo Traveller Hire offers Tempo Traveller Rental Services in Pune, Shirdi and all over India. Our transport is properly maintained and our drivers are trained to travel long distances, making travel safe and comfortable. Regardless of whether you are going on a trip with your family members, friends or colleagues, a Tempo Traveller is a good choice for a comfortable trip.
3. Bus Services
State transport and private buses operate daily services between Pune and Shirdi. You have the option of taking AC, non-AC, sleeper, or semi-sleeper buses depending on your financial constraints. Overnight buses are also available if you want to arrive early in the morning.
4. Train
No direct train is available from Pune to Shirdi. The closest railway stations to Shirdi are Kopargaon (16 km) and Manmad (58 km). You can board a train for either of these stations and then hire an auto or taxi to get to Shirdi.
Best Places to See in Shirdi
Shri Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir
This is the center of Shirdi and the sole reason people generally come here. The temple has the holy samadhi of Sai Baba. The mood is one of devotion, and hearing the aarti here is an experience divine.
Dwarkamai
A mosque where Sai Baba lived for much of his life. It retains his belongings and a holy fire known as Dhuni, which has been burning continuously for more than 100 years.
Chavadi
A small hut where Sai Baba would sleep every alternate night. It is a significant place for devotees to see.
Lendi Baug
A lovely garden where Sai Baba would plant trees and water them. It is serene and ideal for some quiet time.
Sai Heritage Village
A theme park displaying scenes from Sai Baba’s life in the form of statues and models. A suitable destination for families and children to learn about his philosophy.
Interesting Places to Visit on the Way from Pune to Shirdi
Ranjangaon Mahaganapati Temple – It is one of the Ashtavinayak temples that is devoted to Lord Ganesha. A large number of devotees visit this place to get blessings before resuming their journey. The temple has a serene environment and elegant carvings that draw pilgrims and tourists alike.
Nevasa – This is considered to be associated with Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and hence is of high religious significance. It is said that Sant Dnyaneshwar composed portions of the Dnyaneshwari here. The atmosphere is serene and infuses a feeling of spirituality in the minds of the visitors.
Ahmednagar Fort – An ancient fort with strong stones and a rich heritage. It was utilised in various eras of Indian history such as that of the Maratha and British empire.
Read More: Top Hill Stations in Uttarakhand
Suggested Day Trip Plan from Pune to Shirdi
5:00 AM – Depart from Pune
Depart early to miss traffic and have a refreshing morning drive. In case you are driving by car or tempo traveller, take NH60 through Chakan and Sangamner.
7:30 AM – Breakfast Break
Have breakfast at a highway restaurant or dhaba. Popular choices are poha, upma, idli, or paratha with tea or coffee.
10:00 AM – Arrive at Shirdi & Darshan
Go directly to Sai Baba Samadhi Mandir for darshan. It is less busy in the morning but, during Thursdays and weekends, queues can be longer. Book online darshan if you have no time.
1:00 PM—Go to Nearby Places
Dwarkamai – This mosque is where Sai Baba lived. Inside you can see his stone seat, the sacred fire (dhuni) and some of his personal things. People come here to pray and feel peaceful.
Chavadi – A small building where Baba slept every alternate night. Even today, a special procession is held here with prayers and music.
Lendi Baug – Lendi Baug was a peaceful garden that Baba went to every day. He lit a lamp under the neem tree so that people could sit and pray.
2:00 PM – Lunch
Have lunch at a local eatery. Most of them provide vegetarian thali with chapati, rice, dal and vegetables.
3:00 PM – Additional Visit or Shopping
If you have time, visit Sai Heritage Village to see scenes from Sai Baba’s life or shop for sculptures, keychains and books in the bazaar.
4:00 PM – Departure from Shirdi
Start your return journey before evening rush.
8:00 PM – Arrival at Pune
Conclude the day with the blessings of Sai Baba.
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Advantages of taking our services:
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We offer travel services not just for Pune to Shirdi but also to places across all of India.
Last Words
A Pune to Shirdi journey is not a road trip but a spiritual journey that fills your heart with peace and devotion. With good roads, picturesque routes, and easy travel arrangements, the journey is as delightful as the destination. Whether you are traveling alone, with family, or as part of a group, well-planned preparations will ensure your trip is comfortable and memorable.
If you are looking for stress-free and comfortable travel, Ac Tempo Traveller Hire is here to assist with safe Tempo Traveller services in Pune, Shirdi and other places in India.