Shirdi, a small town in Maharashtra, is famous for being the home of Sai Baba, one of India’s most revered saints. Every year, millions of devotees visit Shirdi to pay their respects at the Sai Baba Temple. However, beyond its spiritual significance,
Shirdi is also a gateway to several fascinating tourist destinations located within a 200 km radius. This guide explores these nearby attractions, offering detailed insights into each, including how to get there, what to see, and the best time to visit.
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Shani Shingnapur
Overview
Shani Shingnapur, located about 75 km from Shirdi, is a village known for its unique Shani temple dedicated to Lord Shani, the Hindu god of justice. This village is famous for its houses without doors, as the residents believe that Lord Shani protects them from thefts and misfortunes.
How to Get There
- By Road: The easiest way to reach Shani Shingnapur is by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Shirdi.
- Distance from Shirdi: 75 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Key Attractions
- Shani Temple: The primary attraction, where devotees offer prayers to the deity. The temple has a unique idol of Lord Shani made of black stone.
- No Door Homes: Explore the village where houses have no doors, reflecting the villagers’ unwavering faith in Lord Shani.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: October to March, when the weather is pleasant.
Nashik
Overview
Nashik, situated about 90 km from Shirdi, is an ancient city with a rich history and religious significance. Known as one of the four sites for the Kumbh Mela, Nashik is also famous for its vineyards, making it the wine capital of India.
How to Get There
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Shirdi to Nashik.
- Distance from Shirdi: 90 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours
Key Attractions
- Trimbakeshwar Temple: A Jyotirlinga temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 30 km from Nashik.
- Panchavati: A sacred area where significant events of the Ramayana are believed to have occurred.
- Sula Vineyards: India’s most popular vineyard, offering wine-tasting tours and scenic views of the vineyards.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: November to February, when the weather is cooler and perfect for exploring.
Ellora Caves
Overview
Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is about 110 km from Shirdi. This complex of rock-cut caves is one of the largest in the world and showcases an impressive blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain temples and monasteries.
How to Get There
- By Road: Hiring a taxi or joining a guided tour from Shirdi is recommended.
- Distance from Shirdi: 110 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Key Attractions
- Kailasa Temple: The most remarkable structure, carved out of a single rock and dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Buddhist Caves: Explore the intricately carved Buddhist caves, featuring monasteries and prayer halls.
- Jain Caves: The Jain caves are known for their detailed carvings and paintings.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: October to March, as the weather is pleasant, making it easier to explore the caves.
Aurangabad
Overview
Aurangabad, about 120 km from Shirdi, is a historical city. Named after the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the city is known for its historic monuments, including the famous Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan.”
How to Get There
- By Road: Buses and taxis are readily available from Shirdi to Aurangabad.
- Distance from Shirdi: 120 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours
Key Attractions
- Bibi Ka Maqbara: A mausoleum built by Aurangzeb in memory of his wife, resembling the Taj Mahal.
- Daulatabad Fort: A formidable fort with a rich history, located just outside the city.
- Aurangabad Caves: Ancient rock-cut caves dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries, offering panoramic views of the city.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: November to February, when the climate is cool and comfortable.
Ajanta Caves
Overview
Ajanta Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, are about 180 km from Shirdi. These caves are famous for their exquisite murals and frescoes, depicting the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales.
How to Get There
- By Road: The best way to reach Ajanta Caves is by taking a taxi from Shirdi.
- Distance from Shirdi: 180 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Key Attractions
- Cave Paintings: The Ajanta caves are renowned for their stunning paintings, which are among the finest examples of ancient Indian art.
- Buddhist Monasteries: The caves also feature several monasteries where monks lived and meditated.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: October to March, when the weather is cool, making it easier to explore the caves.
Trimbakeshwar Temple
Overview
Trimbakeshwar Temple, located about 115 km from Shirdi, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated near the source of the Godavari River.
How to Get There
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Shirdi to Trimbak.
- Distance from Shirdi: 115 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Key Attractions
- Jyotirlinga: The temple houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, attracting thousands of devotees annually.
- Kushavarta Kund: A holy pond located within the temple premises, where pilgrims take a dip before offering prayers.
- Brahmagiri Hill: The source of the Godavari River, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: October to March, when the weather is ideal for religious pilgrimages and sightseeing.
Bhandardara
Overview
Bhandardara, about 130 km from Shirdi, is a serene hill station known for its picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and tranquil atmosphere. It is an ideal getaway for nature lovers and those seeking quiet.
How to Get There
- By Road: The best way to reach Bhandardara is by hiring a taxi from Shirdi.
- Distance from Shirdi: 130 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours
Key Attractions
- Arthur Lake: A serene lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for boating and picnics.
- Randha Falls: A stunning waterfall that cascades from 170 feet, offering breathtaking views.
- Mount Kalsubai: The highest peak in Maharashtra, popular among trekking enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: June to March, with monsoon and winter being the best seasons to experience the natural beauty.
Malshej Ghat
Overview
Malshej Ghat, located about 190 km from Shirdi, is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats known for its rugged mountains, waterfalls, and rich flora and fauna. It is a popular destination for trekking, bird watching, and photography.
How to Get There
- By Road: A taxi or self-drive car from Shirdi is the most convenient option.
- Distance from Shirdi: 190 km
- Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Key Attractions
- Waterfalls: During the monsoon, the ghat is dotted with numerous waterfalls, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Harishchandragad Fort: A historic fort offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
- Bird Watching: The ghat is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, especially during the monsoon.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months: July to February, with the monsoon season offering lush greenery and numerous waterfalls.
Tourist Places Near Shirdi
Place | Distance from Shirdi (km) | Travel Time (hrs) | Key Attractions | Best Time to Visit |
Shani Shingnapur | 75 | 1.5 | Shani Temple, No Door Homes | October to March |
Nashik | 90 | 2 | Trimbakeshwar, Panchavati, Vineyards | November to February |
Ellora Caves | 110 | 2.5 | Kailasa Temple, Buddhist, and Jain Caves | October to March |
Aurangabad | 120 | 3 | Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort | November to February |
Ajanta Caves | 180 | 4 | Cave Paintings, Buddhist Monasteries | October to March |
Trimbakeshwar Temple | 115 | 2.5 | Jyotirlinga, Kushavarta Kund, Brahmagiri | October to March |
Bhandardara | 130 | 3 | Arthur Lake, Randha Falls, Mount Kalsubai | June to March |
Malshej Ghat | 190 | 4 | Waterfalls, Harishchandragad Fort | July to February |
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Conclusion
Exploring the tourist places near Shirdi within a 200 km radius offers a diverse experience, from spiritual journeys to nature escapes and historical explorations. Whether you’re a devotee, history buff, or nature lover, the destinations around Shirdi have something for everyone. Plan your trip according to the best time to visit each place and enjoy the unique experiences each location has to offer.
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