Most Popular Pilgrimage Destination Shirdi,maharashtra,india
Shirdi is tiny town
with just 2 square km of main street and a labyrinth of by-lanes but packs in much spiritual passion. A major pilgrimage centre, Shirdi is imbued with an aura of spiritual sanctity. Pilgrims throng for a brief "darshan" at Samadhi Mandir, the shrine of Sai Baba where his mortal remains were interred. The queues outside the temple are endless, the throng inside is maddening, and the devotion intense. Next to the shrine is the peaceful Masjid, where Sai Baba spent most of his life. The sacred fire called "dhuni" still burns here and its ash or "udhi" is smeared on devotees. The Chavadi is a small building where Sai Baba used to spend every alternate night.
Historically Speaking
A sleepy little village in the interiors of Maharashtra, Shirdi came into prominence when an old sage died in 1918. The saga of Sai Baba of Shirdi started in the middle of the last century when, as a boy of about 16 years of age, he first appeared here under a neem tree (Azadirachta indica) absorbed
in a hard penance. For the next 60 years, he devoted his life for the upliftment of the poor and suffering. His origin, religion, and early life are shrouded in mystery, and though he is believed to be an incarnation of lord Shiva, his teachings transcended all religions and beliefs. Today, all places, persons, and possessions connected with him have become objects of veneration by millions of devotees who throng to Shirdi every year from all parts of the world. Sai Baba''s shrine has been incorporated as one of the holy places in the world''s map of pilgrimage.
Shopping
There are several shops in Shirdi that sell photos and effigies of Sai Baba. This is the main commercial activity. The shops open as early as 7 am and close late, at around 10:30 pm.
Events
There are three major festivals that are held in Shirdi and attract thousands of devotees from across the world. These are Ramnavami (end March), Guru Purnima (Full Moon) and Shirdi Vijayadashmi (3rd week October). All these festivals are celebrated all across India with
equal zest and excitement but at Shirdi the celebrations are distinct. The distinction is the association of Saibaba himself which adds to the fervour of these festivals.
Night Out
There are several local restaurants and those around the temple. Most restaurants offer vegetarian fare while hotels mainly cater to those looking for non vegetarian food.
Activities
Sights
At Shirdi, wait for a brief darshan at Samadhi Mandir , the shrine of Sai Baba where his mortal remains were interred. Next to the shrine is the peaceful Masjid where Sai Baba spent most of his life. The sacred fire called dhuni still burns here and its ash or udhi is smeared on
devotees. The Chavadi is a small building in Shirdi where Sai Baba used to spend every alternate night. Abdul Baba, was a famous disciple of Sai Baba. Baba is said to have frequented this house and several items used by Sai Baba and his disciples have been put on display for the tourists. It is located opposite the Chavadi. Lendi Baug is a garden that was made and cared for by Sri Sai Baba. Subsequently, a lighthouse was constructed at this place where a lamp is kept burning throughout the day and night as a mark of respect to the Baba.
How to get there by Air
The nearest airport is Aurangabad 144 kms away. From here one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shirdi.
How to get there by Rail
Shirdi is accessible on the Central Railway line; get off at Manmad (65 km from Shirdi) or at Kopergaon (18 km).
How to get there by Bus
Shirdi is well connected by road and has state transport buses that come in from most towns in Maharashtra.
Best time to Visit
June to August is best with pleasant weather. Though the shrine is open though the week, Thursday is Sai Baba''s special day and more auspicious.
Hotels in Shirdi
Accommodation is never a problem in Shirdi - from the MTDC hotel, tourist rest houses, dharamsalas and ashrams, to five star accommodations - the town is totally geared for pilgrims. Hotels like the Sun-N-Sand, Shraddha Park Inn and the Hotel Sai Leela, are a few of the entire range of hotels that
offer special packages and check-in/check-out timings. You can stay in comfort and clean surroundings at one of the charitable sansthas and dharamsalas for just a handful of rupees. Stay clear of touts!
What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes, cool cotton clothing, appropriate wear if visiting the shrine.
Emergency Number
Shirdi Police Station : 02423 - 255133 Shri Sai Baba Hospital: 02423 - 258671/672/673
Nearby Places
Nasik just 75 km away, the temple town of Nasik has several associations with the Ramayana Lord Rama and Sita were exiled here. A major pilgrimage center, Nasik is also an important business center.
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