Pune To Shirdi Road Trip | Distance & Tips For Travelers

Posted on 17-01-2025 | By Admin

road-trip-from-pune-to-shirdi-distance-duration-and-essential-travel-tips

Shirdi, a renowned temple town in Maharashtra, draws countless pilgrims every year due to its spiritual significance, especially its connection with Sai Baba. This guide will cover essential travel information for those journeying from Pune to Shirdi.

Planning a spiritual getaway or a peaceful weekend trip? The Pune to Shirdi by road journey is an ideal way to connect with nature, experience a smooth ride, and visit one of India's most revered pilgrimage destinations. The drive is not only scenic but also offers ample opportunities for exploring nearby attractions.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know for your Pune to Shirdi road trip, including the distance, travel duration, and essential travel tips to ensure you have a comfortable and memorable journey.

Why Travel from Pune to Shirdi?

Shirdi offers a spiritual retreat for millions of devotees. The town is filled with religious spots and activities that foster a deep sense of peace and calm. The devotional atmosphere, paired with the serene environment, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a break from everyday life.

Pune to Shirdi by Road

Distance and Time

The road distance from Pune to Shirdi is about 184 km, typically taking around 5 hours. The journey follows NH60 for 138 km, transitioning to the Sangamner-Kopargaon Road, and finally covering 46 km on NH160. The route offers well-maintained roads, with plenty of fuel stops and refreshment points.

For a hassle-free trip, consider renting a car from Pune. Savaari provides cab services that allow you to enjoy the journey at your own pace, without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.

Best Time to Visit Shirdi

The ideal time for a road trip from Pune to Shirdi is between October and February. During this period, the temperature ranges from 12°C to 25°C, providing a comfortable climate for travel and sightseeing. October is also a particularly popular time for devotees visiting the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple due to Vijayadashami and Sri Sai Punyatithi celebrations.

Monsoon Season

Shirdi experiences medium to heavy rainfall from June to September. While sightseeing can be a bit challenging during peak monsoon, the beginning and end of the rainy season offer pleasant conditions for exploration.

Summer Season

From March to May, temperatures can soar up to 42°C, making sightseeing difficult. However, the town still draws visitors during festivals like Ramnavami.

Recommended Routes from Pune to Shirdi

  • Route 1: Via NH60 (Preferred Route): This route covers 184 km and takes approximately 4.5 hours. The road conditions are excellent, passing through cities like Kurali and Vadgaon. Along the way, there are several interesting places to stop: Bird Valley Udhyan, Chinchwad: A lakeside park offering boating and picnic areas. Sri Venkateshwara Balaji Mandir, Narayanpur: A peaceful temple modeled after the famous Tirupati Balaji Temple. Chandanapuri Ghat Forest Department, Gunjalwadi: A scenic mountain pass with lush greenery.
  • Route 2: Via Pune-Ahmednagar Highway and NH160: This alternative route is slightly longer, covering 210 km in about 4 hours 50 minutes. The route is known for its quaint views and passes through towns like Sakori and Wagholi. Notable stops include: Bhima Koregaon Vijaystambha, Perne Phata: A historical monument commemorating the Marathas’ resistance against the British. Ahmednagar Fort: A fortress with significant historical value, known for being the prison of Jawaharlal Nehru. Futala Lake, Nagpur: A serene lake ideal for relaxation.

Attractions in Shirdi

  • Shirdi Sai Baba Temple: The primary attraction, visited by thousands of devotees daily. The temple offers modern amenities, including a Prasadalay, canteen, and accommodation facilities.
  • Shani Shignapur Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shani, this temple is famous for its lack of doors on houses in the surrounding village, as locals believe Lord Shani protects them from theft.
  • Khandoba Mandir: A small, peaceful temple near the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, believed to be where Sai Baba first arrived in Shirdi.
  • Wet n Joy Waterpark: A fun water park located about 5 km from Shirdi, perfect for a family outing.

Places to Eat in Shirdi

  • Blue Coriander: Serving Gujarati, Chinese, and North Indian dishes.
  • Prasadalaya: Offering traditional Maharashtrian meals.
  • Rajdhani: Known for its delicious Khichdi, Srikhand, and Jalebis.
  • Ahimsa: A great vegan option for those looking for plant-based meals.

Accommodation in Shirdi

  • Sai Baba International: Located opposite the Sai Baba Temple.
  • Hotel Sai Chhatra: Conveniently located near the bus stand on Nagar Manmad Highway.
  • Hotel Temple Tree: Situated on Ring Road, behind Sai Ashram.
  • Hotel JC Castle: Located on the Shirdi-Manmad Highway, offering comfortable amenities.

For a seamless and enjoyable journey, book a cab from Pune to Shirdi with Savaari. Whether you prefer a one-way trip or a customizable package, Savaari ensures a smooth travel experience.

Road Trip from Pune to Shirdi: Distance, Duration, and Essential Travel Tips

Planning a spiritual journey to the sacred town of Shirdi from Pune? A road trip is one of the best ways to experience the scenic countryside of Maharashtra while heading towards the holy destination of Sai Baba devotees. Whether you're a frequent traveler or taking this trip for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about the Shirdi distance from Pune, travel time, and important tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Shirdi Distance from Pune

The Shirdi distance from Pune is approximately 184 kilometers via the Pune-Ahmednagar Highway. The route is well-connected, and most parts of the road are in good condition, making the trip fairly comfortable. Depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the number of stops you take along the way, you can expect the journey to take anywhere from 4.5 to 5.5 hours.

Best Route for the Trip

There are two major routes you can take to cover the Pune to Shirdi distance:

  • Via NH60 and Pune-Ahmednagar Highway: This is the most commonly preferred route. You start from Pune, head towards Ahmednagar, and then proceed to Shirdi. The roads are smooth, and the route is well-marked with adequate signage.
  • Via NH160 (Sangamner Route): A slightly longer route, but some travelers prefer it due to less traffic and better scenic views. This route takes you through Sangamner and eventually merges into the Ahmednagar route before Shirdi.

Travel Duration and Pit Stops

The drive will take approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on your route and speed. Plan to leave early in the morning to avoid peak traffic and enjoy a hassle-free ride. Here are a few good pit stops you can consider:

  • Ranjangaon: Known for its Ganapati temple, it’s a great spiritual stop for a quick break.
  • Ahmednagar: A major city where you can stop for refreshments, fuel, or even explore the historical Ahmednagar Fort.

Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip

Here are some important travel tips to ensure you have a pleasant and hassle-free road trip from Pune to Shirdi:

1. Vehicle Preparation: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition before embarking on the journey. Check the engine, oil, tires, and ensure your fuel tank is full. Also, keep a spare tire, car jack, and a basic tool kit handy in case of emergencies.

2. Carry Enough Cash :While many places in urban areas accept digital payments, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for tolls, smaller food joints, and other unplanned expenses, especially in rural areas.

3. Plan for Breaks :While the drive isn’t too long, it's important to take breaks for refreshment. Stopping every couple of hours not only gives you a chance to stretch but also helps you stay fresh and alert during the drive.

4. Check the Weather: Maharashtra's weather can be unpredictable, especially during monsoons. If you're traveling during the rainy season, be extra cautious of slippery roads and visibility. In the summer, ensure your vehicle’s AC is functioning well to beat the heat.

5. Accommodation Options in Shirdi: If you’re planning to stay overnight in Shirdi, pre-book your accommodation as the town attracts a large number of pilgrims daily. There are a range of hotels, from budget-friendly to luxury, depending on your needs. Also, several dharamshalas offer comfortable lodging at reasonable prices.

6. Explore Nearby Attractions

While Shirdi is famous for the Sai Baba temple, there are several nearby attractions worth visiting if you have time:

Shani Shingnapur: A famous temple dedicated to Lord Shani, located about 70 km from Shirdi.

Sai Heritage Village: An informative spot where you can learn about Sai Baba's life and teachings.

7. Travel with Essentials

Carry enough water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, especially if you’re traveling with kids or elderly family members. Mobile network connectivity is mostly stable, but having downloaded maps or a GPS system could be useful in case you hit any network dead zones.

The road trip from Pune to Shirdi is more than just a journey – it’s a spiritual and scenic experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated. The Shirdi distance from Pune can be easily covered in about 4-5 hours, making it an ideal weekend getaway for both religious purposes and relaxation. Just make sure to prepare well, drive safely, and take in the beautiful countryside as you travel to one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites.

Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and embark on a journey that promises peace, spirituality, and a refreshing break from the hustle of city life!
 

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