Pune to Shirdi Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Pune to Shirdi? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 185km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Pune to Shirdi
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 4h 30m | ₹1,767 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹179 – ₹533 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹264 – ₹2,042 |
How to Travel: Pune to Shirdi
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 185km journey, driving is your best option. The 4h 30m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Pune
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Vada Pav - A popular street food snack consisting of a potato patty in a bun (try it at Garden Vada Pav Centre).
- local_dining Misal Pav - A spicy lentil curry served with bread (try it at Bedekar Misal).
- local_dining Puran Poli - A sweet flatbread stuffed with lentils and jaggery (try it at a local sweet shop during festivals).
Vaishali • Shivaji Nagar
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Pune to Shirdi route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Pimpri-Chinchwad
Top Attractions in Shirdi: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Shirdi, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Shri Sai Baba Temple
⏱ 2-4 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hours daily, but specific darshan timings varyThe main attraction in Shirdi, this temple houses the samadhi (final resting place) of Sai Baba. It's a place of deep spiritual significance for millions of devotees.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid the longest queues.
💡 Insider Tip: Consider booking a VIP darshan pass online for a faster entry, although it comes at a cost.
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Dwarkamai
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-22:00 dailyDwarkamai is the mosque where Sai Baba spent a significant part of his life. It's considered a sacred place and houses the Dhuni (eternal flame) that Baba kept burning.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Take a moment to sit quietly and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
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Chavadi
⏱ 30 minutes • 💰 Free • 🕐 05:00-22:00 dailyChavadi is the place where Sai Baba alternately spent his nights. It's divided into two parts: one for Baba and another for his devotees.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Look for the palanquin procession that takes place on certain occasions.
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Gurusthan
⏱ 15 minutes • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-22:00 dailyGurusthan is the place where Sai Baba was first spotted as a young boy. It's marked by a neem tree.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Tie a thread to the neem tree to make a wish.
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Lendi Baug
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 09:00-11:00, 16:00-18:00 dailyLendi Baug is a garden that Sai Baba used to visit regularly. It's a peaceful oasis away from the temple crowds.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for a peaceful stroll.
💡 Insider Tip: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and meditate under the trees.
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Shri Khandoba Temple
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-21:00 dailyThis temple is dedicated to Lord Khandoba, a local deity. Sai Baba was greeted with the words 'Ya Sai' (Welcome Sai) at this temple when he first arrived in Shirdi.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day
💡 Insider Tip: Attend the evening aarti (prayer ceremony) for a vibrant experience.
Where to Eat in Shirdi: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Shirdi
Don't leave Shirdi without tasting these local specialties:
- Thali - A traditional Indian platter with a variety of dishes (try at Rajdhani Thali Restaurant).
- Puran Poli - A sweet flatbread stuffed with lentils and jaggery (available at local sweet shops).
- Sabudana Khichdi - A savory dish made with tapioca pearls (try at roadside stalls during fasting days).
- Misal Pav - A spicy lentil curry served with bread (try at local restaurants in the market area).
Recommended Restaurants in Shirdi
Woodlands Restaurant
South Indian, North Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two)
Specialty: Masala Dosa, Butter Chicken
A popular restaurant with a wide variety of dishes and a comfortable atmosphere. Known for its quick service and tasty food. Located near the Sai Baba Temple.
📍 Near Sai Baba Temple
Rajdhani Thali Restaurant
North Indian Thali • ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two)
Specialty: Unlimited Thali
Offers a traditional North Indian thali experience with a variety of vegetarian dishes. A good option for those looking for a hearty and satisfying meal. Located in Central Shirdi.
📍 Central Shirdi
Sai Sagar Food Court
Multi-cuisine • ₹ (₹300-500 for two)
Specialty: Pav Bhaji, Vada Pav
A casual food court with a variety of options, including fast food and local snacks. A good option for a quick and affordable meal. Located near the Sai Baba Temple.
📍 Near Sai Baba Temple
Little Italy
Italian • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Pizza, Pasta
Offers a range of Italian dishes, including pizza, pasta, and salads. A good option for those looking for a change from Indian cuisine. Located in a hotel in Central Shirdi.
📍 Central Shirdi
Where to Stay in Shirdi: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Sai Leela
Price: ₹800-₹1500/night
Location: Near Sai Baba Temple
Simple and clean rooms with basic amenities. A good option for budget travelers seeking proximity to the temple.
Hotel Disha Palace
Price: ₹700-₹1200/night
Location: Central Shirdi
Decent rooms with essential facilities. It's located in a convenient location with easy access to transportation.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Sun N Sand Shirdi
Price: ₹2500-₹4000/night
Location: Near Sai Baba Temple
Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a restaurant. Offers a swimming pool and other recreational facilities.
St Laurn Meditation and Spa
Price: ₹2000-₹3500/night
Location: Outskirts of Shirdi
Offers comfortable rooms, a spa, and meditation facilities. A good option for those seeking relaxation and wellness.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
The Taj Blue Diamond, Shirdi
Price: ₹5000+/night
Location: Near Sai Baba Temple
Luxurious rooms with elegant decor and premium amenities. Features multiple restaurants, a spa, and a swimming pool.
Keys Select Hotel Shirdi
Price: ₹4000+/night
Location: Central Shirdi
Stylish rooms with modern amenities and excellent service. Offers a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
Best Time to Travel from Pune to Shirdi
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Shirdi:
Best Time: October to March
Temperature: 20-30 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities and temple visits. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.
Why Visit: The weather is perfect for sightseeing and participating in religious ceremonies. This period avoids the monsoon rains and the extreme heat of summer. The atmosphere is festive, especially around Diwali and Christmas, but expect larger crowds.
Important Note: Expect higher prices for accommodation and transportation. Booking well in advance is essential to secure your preferred options.
Shoulder Season: July to September
Temperature: 25-32 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and humidity. The landscape turns lush green, but outdoor activities can be limited.
Why Visit: The crowds are significantly smaller compared to the peak season, offering a more peaceful experience. Accommodation prices may be lower, providing better value for money.
Important Note: Heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and some outdoor attractions may be temporarily closed.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: Extreme heat makes it uncomfortable to be outdoors during the day. Heatwaves are common.
Why Visit: The intense heat makes it difficult to enjoy the pilgrimage experience. The risk of heatstroke and dehydration is high. It is best to avoid visiting during these months unless absolutely necessary.
Important Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Ensure your accommodation has reliable air conditioning.
Practical Travel Tips for Shirdi
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹800, Mid: ₹2000, Luxury: ₹4000+
ATMs: ATMs are readily available in Shirdi.
Payment Methods: Cash is widely accepted, but cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Dehydration and heatstroke are common during the summer months. Carry water and wear sunscreen.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage in Shirdi. SIM cards are available at the airport and in town.
WiFi Availability: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and some restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pune to Shirdi
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