22/05/2019
The spiritual town of Shirdi, home to the revered Sai Baba, is a popular pilgrimage destination for millions. Many visitors embark on this journey from the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. Understanding the distance and the various travel options available is crucial for planning a comfortable and efficient trip. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on how far Shirdi is from Mumbai, detailing the different modes of transport, their advantages, and what to expect along the way.
The Distance: Mumbai to Shirdi
The road distance between Mumbai and Shirdi is approximately 240-250 kilometres, depending on the specific route taken. This journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours by car, though this can vary significantly based on traffic conditions, especially when departing from or arriving in Mumbai. The route often passes through scenic landscapes and smaller towns, offering a glimpse into rural Maharashtra.
Travel Options: Mumbai to Shirdi
Several convenient options are available for travellers looking to get from Mumbai to Shirdi:
1. By Car (Self-Drive or Taxi)
Travelling by car offers the most flexibility. You can choose to drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi.
- Route: The most common and generally the fastest route is via the Eastern Express Highway, then taking the Thane-Nashik Highway (NH160) towards Ghoti, and finally diverting to Shirdi. Another option is via the Sion-Panvel Expressway, then the NH48 towards Pune, and subsequently diverting towards Shirdi. The NH160 route is often preferred for its better road conditions.
- Time: As mentioned, the journey typically takes 5-6 hours. However, starting early in the morning from Mumbai can help avoid peak traffic hours.
- Cost: Hiring a taxi can range from INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 for a round trip, depending on the type of car and the taxi service. Self-driving involves fuel costs and potential toll charges.
- Advantages: Door-to-door service, flexibility in departure time, ability to stop en route, and comfort.
- Disadvantages: Can be expensive for solo travellers, traffic in Mumbai can cause delays.
2. By Train
While there isn't a direct train from Mumbai to Shirdi that is the most convenient, several trains connect Mumbai to nearby stations like Manmad or Sainagar Shirdi itself.
- Direct Train to Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI): There are a few direct trains from Mumbai to Sainagar Shirdi (SNSI). For instance, the Sainagar Shirdi Express (22147) runs from Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) in Mumbai to SNSI.
- Train to Manmad (MMR): Manmad Junction is a major railway station, and many trains from Mumbai stop here. From Manmad, Shirdi is about 80-90 kilometres away, and you can hire a taxi or take a bus to complete the journey. This can be a viable option if direct trains are unavailable or fully booked.
- Time: Train journeys can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, depending on the specific train and stops. The additional travel from Manmad to Shirdi by road will add another 1.5-2 hours.
- Cost: Train tickets are generally more economical than taxis, with prices varying based on the class of travel (AC, non-AC, sleeper).
- Advantages: Cost-effective, can be more relaxing than driving, environmentally friendly.
- Disadvantages: Less flexibility, requires additional local transport from Manmad if not going directly to SNSI, can be crowded during peak seasons.
3. By Bus
Numerous state-run and private bus services operate between Mumbai and Shirdi. This is often one of the most popular and affordable ways to travel.
- Operators: MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation) and various private operators like VRL, SRS Travels, and Neeta Travels offer services.
- Boarding Points: Buses typically depart from major locations in Mumbai such as Dadar, Sion, Thane, and Borivali.
- Time: Bus journeys usually take between 5.5 to 7 hours, depending on the number of stops and traffic.
- Cost: Bus fares are quite reasonable, generally ranging from INR 500 to INR 1,200, depending on the type of bus (AC Volvo, sleeper, non-AC seater).
- Advantages: Affordable, frequent services, multiple boarding points, direct drop-offs in Shirdi.
- Disadvantages: Can be less comfortable than a car or train, journey time can be longer due to stops.
4. By Air
Shirdi has its own airport (Shirdi Airport - SDR). While there are no direct flights from Mumbai to Shirdi, you can fly from Mumbai to airports like Nashik (Ozar Airport - ISK) or Aurangabad (Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport - IXU), and then take a taxi or bus to Shirdi.
- Mumbai to Nashik: Flights are limited, and the road distance from Nashik to Shirdi is about 90-100 kilometres (approx. 2 hours).
- Mumbai to Aurangabad: Flights are more frequent. The road distance from Aurangabad to Shirdi is approximately 115-130 kilometres (approx. 2.5-3 hours).
- Time: Flying itself is quick, but factoring in travel to the airport, check-in, the flight, and then the onward journey by road, this option can be time-consuming and is generally the most expensive.
- Cost: Flight tickets, plus taxi/bus fares from the destination airport, will be significantly higher than other modes of transport.
- Advantages: Potentially faster if direct flights were available; good for those who prefer air travel.
- Disadvantages: Not a direct option, expensive, requires additional road travel.
Choosing the Best Option
The best way to travel from Mumbai to Shirdi depends on your priorities:
- For Comfort and Flexibility: Hiring a private car or taxi is the ideal choice.
- For Budget Travellers: Buses or trains (especially to Manmad and then by road) are the most economical options.
- For Speed (if available and cost-effective): While not a direct option, flying to Nashik or Aurangabad and then taking a taxi might be considered, but usually, road travel is more practical for this distance.
Things to Consider for Your Journey
- Best Time to Travel: The winter months (October to March) offer pleasant weather for the journey and for visiting Shirdi. Summers can be very hot.
- Booking in Advance: Especially during festival seasons or weekends, it's advisable to book train tickets, bus tickets, or taxis in advance to secure your preferred timings and availability.
- Tolls: Be aware that road journeys will involve toll charges.
- Food and Refreshments: Many dhabas and restaurants are available along the Mumbai-Shirdi route where you can stop for meals and refreshments.
Comparison Table: Mumbai to Shirdi Travel Options
| Mode of Transport | Approx. Distance | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost (INR) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car/Taxi | 240-250 km | 5-6 hours | 3,000 - 5,000 (taxi) | Flexibility, Comfort, Door-to-door | Cost (for solo), Traffic |
| Train (Direct to SNSI) | ~400 km (rail) | 6-10 hours | 500 - 1,500 (AC/Sleeper) | Economical, Relaxing | Limited availability, Fixed schedule |
| Train to Manmad + Taxi | ~320 km (rail) + 85 km (road) | 6-8 hours (train) + 1.5-2 hours (road) | 400 - 1,200 (train) + 1,500-2,000 (taxi) | Cost-effective, Good connectivity | Requires transfer, Extra travel time |
| Bus | 240-250 km | 5.5-7 hours | 500 - 1,200 | Affordable, Frequent, Direct | Less comfort, More stops |
| Flight + Taxi | ~150-200 km (air) + 100-130 km (road) | 1-2 hours (flight) + 2-3 hours (road) | 3,000 - 7,000+ (flight + taxi) | Potentially faster for some | Expensive, Not direct, Hassle of transfers |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the fastest way to travel from Mumbai to Shirdi?
While there isn't a direct flight, travelling by a private car or taxi is generally the fastest and most convenient mode of transport, with an average travel time of 5-6 hours, avoiding the need for transfers.
Q2: Is it better to take a train or a bus to Shirdi from Mumbai?
This depends on your budget and preference. Buses are often more frequent and offer direct drop-offs in Shirdi, making them a convenient choice. Trains can be more comfortable for longer journeys and are economical, but you might need to arrange onward travel from stations like Manmad.
Q3: Are there direct flights from Mumbai to Shirdi?
No, there are no direct flights connecting Mumbai to Shirdi Airport. You would need to fly to a nearby city like Nashik or Aurangabad and then travel by road.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Shirdi from Mumbai?
The best time is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the peak summer months (April to June) due to extreme heat.
Q5: How much does a taxi cost from Mumbai to Shirdi?
A one-way taxi fare can range from INR 2,500 to INR 4,000, while a round trip might cost between INR 3,000 and INR 5,000, depending on the service provider and car type.
Planning your trip from Mumbai to Shirdi requires considering these various aspects. Whether you choose the flexibility of a car, the economy of a bus, or the comfort of a train, a well-planned journey ensures a smooth and fulfilling experience as you head towards this sacred destination.
If you want to read more articles similar to Mumbai to Shirdi: Your Travel Guide, you can visit the Travel category.