Shirdi, located in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district, is a renowned pilgrimage town famous for the Sai Baba temple. Bhimashankar, also in Maharashtra but nestled in the Western Ghats, is a sacred Jyotirlinga shrine and a popular trekking destination. Traveling between these two spiritual spots is common among devotees and nature lovers alike.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Bhimashankar from Shirdi, including train, bus, car, and taxi options. Whether you are planning a weekend trip or a longer pilgrimage, you'll find detailed travel advice, route insights, and tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Shirdi to Bhimashankar – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Shirdi and Bhimashankar is limited as Bhimashankar does not have a railway station. However, you can use nearby stations combined with other transport modes. This option suits travelers who prefer rail journeys but should be planned carefully.

• Nearest stations:

  Shirdi has its own railway station (SDE), well connected to major cities. The closest station to Bhimashankar is Pune Junction (PUNE), about 65 km away, requiring further road travel.

• Travel time and cost:

  The train from Shirdi to Pune takes around 3 to 4 hours, costing between ₹150 to ₹400 depending on the train class. From Pune, you must hire a taxi or take a bus to Bhimashankar.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Several trains run daily from Shirdi to Pune, including express and passenger trains. Booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during festivals.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Pune station, you can find prepaid taxis or book Ola/Uber cabs to Bhimashankar. The road journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours through scenic Western Ghats.

• Seasonal tips:

  Monsoon season can cause delays on the Pune-Bhimashankar road due to landslides, so plan accordingly if using train plus road transport.

Bus

Bus travel is a popular and economical way to reach Bhimashankar from Shirdi, though it involves transfers. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) operates buses connecting these regions, but direct services are rare.

• Route details:

  From Shirdi, take an MSRTC bus to Pune or Rajgurunagar (Khed). From Rajgurunagar, local buses or shared taxis go to Bhimashankar.

• Travel time and fares:

  Shirdi to Pune bus takes about 3 to 4 hours, costing ₹150 to ₹250. Pune to Bhimashankar by local transport is another 2 to 3 hours, costing ₹100 to ₹200.

• Bus types and frequency:

  Shirdi-Pune buses run frequently throughout the day, including deluxe and non-AC options. Rajgurunagar to Bhimashankar buses are fewer and mostly local, so check timings in advance.

• Comfort and tips:

  Buses can get crowded during weekends and festivals. Carry water and snacks, and avoid traveling late evening on hilly stretches.

• Scenic route:

  The Pune-Bhimashankar road passes through lush greenery and small villages, offering pleasant views especially post-monsoon.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Shirdi to Bhimashankar is one of the most convenient and flexible options, ideal for groups or families wanting to explore at their own pace. The route covers around 140 km via NH60 and NH753F.

• Route overview:

  The most common route is Shirdi–Rahata–Ahmednagar–Rajgurunagar–Bhimashankar. The roads are mostly national and state highways, with some ghat sections near Bhimashankar.

• Travel time and distance:

  The drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours covering about 140 km. Expect slower speeds on ghat roads near Bhimashankar.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  NH60 and NH753F are generally in good condition with toll plazas near Ahmednagar and Rajgurunagar. Watch for potholes on smaller connecting roads.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  There are several fuel stations and eateries in Ahmednagar and Rajgurunagar. Plan breaks accordingly, especially if traveling with children or elderly.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving on the Bhimashankar ghat roads due to limited street lighting and wildlife crossings. Monsoon season requires extra caution for slippery roads.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Shirdi to Bhimashankar is a hassle-free option, especially for those unfamiliar with local roads. It offers door-to-door service and flexibility in stops.

• Availability:

  Prepaid taxis and private cabs can be booked from Shirdi via local operators or apps like Ola and Uber, though app coverage may be limited near Bhimashankar.

• Cost and duration:

  Taxi fares typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 one way, depending on vehicle type and negotiation. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours.

• Comfort and convenience:

  Taxis provide comfortable seating and air conditioning, ideal for groups or families. Drivers often act as informal guides for local attractions.

• Booking tips:

  Confirm the fare beforehand and ensure the driver is aware of the Bhimashankar route. Avoid last-minute bookings during peak pilgrimage seasons.

• Local knowledge:

  Experienced drivers can suggest scenic detours or good places to eat en route, enhancing your travel experience.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Shirdi to Bhimashankar efficiently, combining convenience and comfort.

• Book your train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or MSRTC online portals for buses. Booking in advance secures seats during busy seasons.

• Start early from Shirdi:

  Begin your journey by 6–7 AM to avoid city traffic and reach Bhimashankar before evening, especially if using road transport.

• Reach Pune if using train:

  If traveling by train, disembark at Pune Junction and arrange a taxi or bus to Bhimashankar. Pune station has prepaid taxi counters for safe rides.

• Use local transport from Rajgurunagar:

  From Pune or Ahmednagar, take a bus or shared taxi to Rajgurunagar, then switch to local transport heading to Bhimashankar temple.

• Carry essentials for the trek:

  Bhimashankar involves some trekking to the temple. Pack water, snacks, and comfortable shoes for the uphill walk.

• Plan your return:

  Arrange your return transport in advance, especially if traveling by bus or taxi, to avoid last-minute hassles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on ghat roads:

  Drive cautiously on the winding roads near Bhimashankar, especially during monsoon when landslides and slippery patches are common.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as eateries near Bhimashankar are limited and may close early.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official IRCTC and MSRTC websites or apps for reliable bookings. Avoid agents charging extra commission.

• Local commute:

  Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in Pune and Shirdi. For Bhimashankar, shared jeeps or local taxis are common but negotiate fares beforehand.

• Luggage handling:

  Travel light if trekking to the temple. Leave heavy luggage at your accommodation or with trusted drivers.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to roadblocks and slippery conditions. Winter mornings can be foggy, affecting visibility.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Shirdi to Bhimashankar is during the cooler months from October to February. The weather is pleasant for trekking and sightseeing. Avoid monsoon months if you want to prevent travel delays and road hazards.

Planning your journey outside festival weekends ensures less crowd and smoother transport options. Early morning departures help beat traffic and enjoy daylight travel on hilly roads.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Shirdi and Pune, typically 8–10 AM and 5–7 PM, to save time.

• Monsoon (June to September) can cause landslides on Bhimashankar ghat roads; check weather updates before traveling.

• Early morning departures (6–7 AM) are ideal for comfortable travel and better visibility on winding roads.

• Festivals like Mahashivratri attract large crowds at Bhimashankar; book transport and accommodation well in advance.

Arrival at Bhimashankar & What to Expect

On arrival at Bhimashankar, travelers find a serene environment surrounded by dense forests and hills. The temple complex is modest but spiritually significant, attracting devotees year-round. The area is also a wildlife sanctuary, so expect natural beauty and occasional wildlife sightings.

Local transport options are limited; shared jeeps and taxis operate from Rajgurunagar and nearby towns. Accommodation ranges from basic lodges to guesthouses near the temple. For food, small eateries serve simple Maharashtrian meals. Trekking to the temple involves a moderate uphill walk, so wear comfortable shoes and carry water.

Conclusion

Driving or hiring a taxi from Shirdi to Bhimashankar is the most efficient and comfortable way to travel, offering flexibility and scenic views. While train and bus options are available, they require multiple transfers and careful planning.

With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey between these two spiritual destinations, enjoying both the pilgrimage and the natural beauty of Maharashtra’s Western Ghats. Prepare well, travel safely, and embrace the enriching experience that awaits at Bhimashankar.