Nashik to Shirdi distance is only about 90 km, taking approximately less than 2 hours to travel. Shirdi, of course, is a popular spiritual destination. And as devotees and travelers come to this holy spot every day, it is imperative that Shirdi be well-connected through road, rail and air. Though travel routes from major cities of India, such as Mumbai, Pune, Chennai or Delhi are often discussed, the Tier II cities, such as Nashik are often ignored. However, Nashik to Shirdi is a very important route and recently emerging as one of the most traveled circuits of the country.
Road and Rail
Nashik is connected to Shirdi by road and rail. By road one can travel in cars or private vehicles, as well as avail of public buses. You can drive yourself, or also book rental car facilities for either one-way or return journey too. Besides, the several cab booking applications and companies offer different schemes, routes and discounts that tourists can check out and use according to convenience.
Several trains run between Nashik and Shirdi. Many trains start from Mumbai and have a stop at Nashik before continuing to Shirdi. Some of the trains that begin from Nashik and have Shirdi as a stop, are trains going to Karakbel, Daraganj, Pattambi etc.
Nashik to Shirdi Distance, Route & Stops
A drive from Nashik to Shirdi is a great way to enjoy the surrounding landscape and explore attractions. It is also a wonderful way to travel with family and friends, as it lets you spend quality and meaningful time with each other.
The best route is to drive on NH 160 where it takes a little over an hour to reach Shirdi. The national highway is well-maintained and the ride is both enjoyable and hassle-free. Also, along the route there are several dining options, hotels, fuel stops etc.
Additionally, various interesting stops can be made while traveling from Nashik to Shirdi, as there are several amazing tourist attractions on the Nashik way or while taking a slight detour. Some of these attractions include the Sula Vineyards, Vihigaon Ashoka Waterfalls, Anjaneri, Camel Valley, Vallonne Vineyards and more.
Another spiritual circuit that has emerged in recent times as a popular route is the Shirdi-Nashik-Trimbakeshwar-Vani route. Several visitors, especially from south India have been travelling on this route to visit the top religious and spiritual destinations.
Nashik and Shirdi Attractions
Shirdi is undoubtedly a popular religious center. It was the home of Saint Sai Baba and the Sai Mandir is where the remains of this astounding leader still remain. Tourists and devotees come in large numbers for the Darshan and Aarti and to seek blessings at the Sai Baba Mandir. Other attractions in Shirdi are Dwarkamai, Gurusthan, Khandoba Mandir, Sai Heritage Village, Sai Teerth Theme Park, Wet n Joy water park and more.
Nashik, on the other hand, is also a highly spiritual city. It is home to the Muktidham Mandir, Kalaram Mandir and is considered a holy city located on the banks of River Godavari. Hence, travelers often visit Nashik and Shirdi together for they reflect the same spiritual and divine atmosphere.
Sai Teerth Theme Park, Shirdi
There are several places of interests, both in Nashik and Shirdi. But Sai Teerth Theme Park holds a special place since it is the first devotional theme park of India. Also, devotees visit temples with lots of fervor and humility. The intent is pure and highly spiritual. However, the theme park, is a splendid way to enhance the celestial experience without getting restricted to protocols and religious etiquettes.
The Sai Teerth Theme Park is thus a place for both devotees and tourists to understand the life of Sai Baba better through technology. The shows are informative, educative, as well as devotional. Visitors can learn a lot and at the same time experience spirituality and divinity.
Some of the best shows at Sai Teerth include Giant Screen, Sab Ka Malik Ek, Dwarkamai and the Laser Show. Besides, there is the Sai Baba Mosaic made from Rubik Cubes, as well as other religious shows, such as Lanka Dahan and Teerth Yatra.
Located only a few minutes from the Sai Mandir, the Sai Teerth Theme Park is a must-visit destination for all age groups and religions.
Best time to travel
What is the best time when the Nashik to Shirdi distance can be covered easily? Though this route is busy throughout the year, most tourist prefer travel from October to February. The weather is great and pleasant, and it’s not too cold either. Also, major festivals such as Diwali and Navratri etc. fall in October or November.
The monsoon season from June to September is also a good time to travel. The route or drive from Nashik to Shirdi and back is gorgeous, especially the waterfalls. It is the perfect time to visit the beautiful vineyards and natural spots around the travel route.
During summers from March to May, it is hot, but yet, many tourists visit Shirdi.
Nashik to Shirdi distance is short, well-maintained and also quick. Besides, the enroute escapades, hotels and dhabbas, as well as, the little joys of a drive along a highway, are additional fun aspects to the trip. And of course, the destinations themselves merit a few days of exploration and visiting its most important places of interests.