Shirdi, a small town in Maharashtra, is famous for being the home of the revered saint Sai Baba. Every year, millions of devotees visit this holy town to seek blessings. With Shirdi’s growing popularity, traveling to the town has become much easier. If you’re wondering how can I go to Shirdi by flight, this guide will give you all the information you need. Let’s explore the options and make your journey to Shirdi comfortable and hassle-free.
Introduction to Shirdi
Shirdi, also known as Sainagar, holds great significance for devotees of Sai Baba. The town is located about 240 kilometers from Mumbai, and it’s a major pilgrimage site in India. Due to its religious importance, people from all over the country and even abroad visit Shirdi. To accommodate the growing number of visitors, the town now has its own airport, which makes it easier to access by air.
Before the construction of the Shirdi Airport, travelers had to rely on road or rail transport from nearby cities like Mumbai, Pune, or Nashik. However, with the advent of flights to Shirdi, reaching this holy destination has become more convenient than ever before.
How Can I Go Shirdi by Flight?
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Shirdi is by taking a flight. Here is a step-by-step guide on how can I go to Shirdi by flight:
Choose the Nearest Airport to Shirdi
The Shirdi International Airport (IATA Code: SAG) is the closest airport to the town. It is located approximately 14 kilometers from the Sai Baba Temple, making it extremely convenient for travelers. Several flights connect Shirdi to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai.
In case there are no direct flights from your city to Shirdi, the nearest major airport to Shirdi is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. From Mumbai, you can take a connecting flight or use road transport to reach Shirdi.
Book Your Flight to Shirdi
Air India, Indigo, SpiceJet, and GoAir are among the major airlines that operate flights to Shirdi Airport. You can easily book a direct or connecting flight from your city to Shirdi through airline websites, travel apps, or travel agents.
Make sure to check the flight schedule, as some cities may not have daily flights to Shirdi. It’s always a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons, such as Guru Purnima, Ram Navami, and Sai Baba’s Samadhi day.
Traveling from the Airport to Shirdi Town
Once your flight lands at Shirdi Airport, you have several options for traveling to the town center and the Sai Baba Temple:
– Taxis and Cabs: The most convenient option is to hire a taxi or cab from the airport. Many private taxi operators offer services at the airport. The journey from the airport to the temple usually takes around 15-20 minutes.
– Auto-rickshaws are a budget-friendly option available at the airport for those seeking a convenient transportation method.. They are a cheaper alternative to taxis, though less comfortable for larger groups.
– Hotel Transfers: Many hotels in Shirdi offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off services for their guests. You can check with your hotel to see if they provide this service and arrange it in advance.
Flight Connectivity and Options
Here’s a look at the major cities with direct or connecting flights to Shirdi Airport:
– From Mumbai to Shirdi: Direct flights from Mumbai to Shirdi are availableThe flight is expected to last around one hour.
– From Delhi to Shirdi: You can find direct flights from Delhi to Shirdi. The flight takes around 2 hours.
– From Hyderabad to Shirdi: Direct flights are available from Hyderabad.The flight is estimated to last approximately 1.5 hours.
– From Bangalore to Shirdi: There are connecting flights from Bangalore to Shirdi with a layover in Mumbai or Hyderabad.
– From Chennai to Shirdi: You can take a connecting flight from Chennai to Shirdi via Mumbai.
What to Expect at Shirdi Airport
Shirdi Airport is a small, modern airport with all basic facilities. It has a clean and well-maintained terminal, a baggage claim area, and a waiting lounge. While the airport is not as large as those in major cities, it is equipped to handle the increasing number of visitors coming to the town.
There are also some basic amenities like food stalls and restrooms, but do not expect a wide variety of shops or services. The airport is functional and efficient for a small-town destination like Shirdi.
Best Time to Visit Shirdi
Planning your trip to Shirdi is crucial, and it’s essential to determine the best time to visit the city. The town can be visited throughout the year, but the weather and crowd may affect your experience:
– Winter (October to February): This is the best time to visit Shirdi as the weather is pleasant and cool. It’s also the peak season for pilgrims, so expect larger crowds.
– Summer (March to June): The temperature during summer can be quite high, making it uncomfortable for travel and sightseeing.
– Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, but the number of visitors decreases. If you don’t mind rain, this could be a quieter time to visit.
Key Tips for a Smooth Journey
– Book Early: Flights to Shirdi can fill up quickly during festive seasons, so book your tickets early.
– Different airlines have varying baggage policies. Make sure to check the baggage allowance before your trip.
– Carry Snacks: While the airport has some food options, they are limited. You may want to carry some snacks, especially if you’re traveling with children.
Conclusion
Traveling to Shirdi by flight is now a convenient and time-saving option for pilgrims and tourists alike. With direct flights from major cities and a well-connected airport, your journey to seek blessings at Sai Baba’s temple has never been easier. By following the steps in this guide on how can I go to Shirdi by flight, you can plan a hassle-free trip to this holy destination.
Freaquently Ask Questions
1. Is there a direct flight to Shirdi from major cities in India?
Yes, there are direct flights to Shirdi from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. Other cities may have connecting flights through Mumbai or Hyderabad.
2. How far is Shirdi Airport from the Sai Baba Temple?
Shirdi Airport is approximately 14 kilometers away from the Sai Baba Temple. The travel time by taxi or auto-rickshaw from the airport to the temple is around 15-20 minutes.
3. What are the transportation options from Shirdi Airport to the town?
You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use hotel shuttle services to travel from the airport to Shirdi town and the Sai Baba Temple.
4. What is the best time to visit Shirdi?
The best time to visit Shirdi is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. It is also the peak pilgrimage season.
5. How can I book a flight to Shirdi?
You can book flights to Shirdi through airline websites, travel apps, or travel agents. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during festive seasons, to ensure availability.
