Grishneshwar Temple is located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra and is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Shirdi, famous for the Sai Baba temple, is a major pilgrimage town in the Ahmednagar district. Many travelers visit both places on spiritual tours, making this route a popular journey for devotees and tourists alike.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Shirdi to Grishneshwar Temple. You will learn about different transport modes, travel times, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Shirdi to Grishneshwar Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a convenient and economical option if you prefer a relaxed journey. The nearest railway station to Grishneshwar Temple is Aurangabad, which is well connected to Shirdi by rail.

• Shirdi Railway Station connects to Aurangabad Railway Station, which is about 60 km from Grishneshwar Temple, with trains running several times a day taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Train fares between Shirdi and Aurangabad range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the class, making it affordable for most travelers.

• From Aurangabad station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Grishneshwar Temple, which takes about 1 hour over a 30 km distance on NH52.

• Trains are generally punctual but can get crowded during festivals like Maha Shivratri and weekends, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging on tracks, so check train status before departure during June to September.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and budget-friendly way to travel between Shirdi and Grishneshwar Temple, especially for those comfortable with road travel.

• State-run buses by MSRTC operate from Shirdi bus stand to Aurangabad bus depot, with frequent services throughout the day taking about 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from ₹100 to ₹200 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary or deluxe services.

• From Aurangabad bus depot, local buses or shared autos can take you to Grishneshwar Temple, located about 30 km away.

• Road conditions on NH52 are generally good, but heavy rains during monsoon can cause traffic slowdowns and occasional roadblocks.

• Bus services are less frequent late at night, so plan your travel during daytime for better availability and safety.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving yourself or hiring a private taxi is the most flexible and comfortable way to reach Grishneshwar Temple from Shirdi, especially if traveling in a group or with family.

• The distance by road is approximately 90 km via NH160 and NH52, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

• Private taxis or cabs like Ola and Uber are available in Shirdi, with fares ranging from ₹1500 to ₹2500 for a one-way trip to Grishneshwar Temple.

• Self-driving allows you to stop at scenic points or local eateries along the way, with popular rest stops near Kopargaon and Nevasa.

• Be aware of toll plazas on NH160 and NH52; carry cash or use FASTag for smooth passage.

• During peak pilgrimage seasons, roads can be crowded near Shirdi and Aurangabad, so start early to avoid delays.

Flight

There is no direct flight between Shirdi and Grishneshwar Temple as both are close by. The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport, which serves domestic flights but is not practical for this short journey.

• Travelers arriving by air usually fly into Aurangabad Airport, about 30 km from Grishneshwar Temple, and then use road transport to reach the temple.

• From Shirdi, the nearest airport is Shirdi Airport, but it does not have direct flights to Aurangabad, so flying is not recommended for this route.

• Using flights is only suitable if you are combining this trip with longer-distance travel across Maharashtra or India.

• For local travel between Shirdi and Grishneshwar Temple, road or rail options are faster and more cost-effective.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If this is your first time traveling from Shirdi to Grishneshwar Temple, follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets in advance through IRCTC or MSRTC websites to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during festival seasons.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some transport options may have limited stops.

• Start early in the morning to avoid traffic congestion near Shirdi and Aurangabad, and to have ample time for temple darshan.

• If using train travel, check the train status on the day of travel to avoid delays caused by weather or maintenance work.

• Arrange local transport from Aurangabad station or bus depot to Grishneshwar Temple beforehand, either by prepaid taxi or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber.

• Keep some cash handy for tolls, local transport, and small purchases, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a bottle of purified water and avoid drinking tap water during your journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs from railway stations and bus stands to avoid overcharging by local drivers.

• Wear comfortable footwear and light cotton clothes, especially if traveling during summer months when temperatures can soar above 40°C.

• Book your train or bus tickets well in advance during festivals like Maha Shivratri and Ganesh Chaturthi to secure seats.

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly to ensure safety in crowded places like Shirdi and Aurangabad.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather updates, as heavy rains can disrupt road and rail travel in Maharashtra.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Shirdi to Grishneshwar Temple is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. Avoid the peak summer months due to extreme heat.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that can cause travel delays and slippery roads, so plan accordingly if you must travel during this time.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals in Shirdi and Aurangabad, as roads and trains become overcrowded and prices rise.

• Early morning departures are recommended to beat city traffic and enjoy a peaceful journey.

• Winter mornings may have fog near Aurangabad, causing slight delays in train and road travel.

• Check local weather forecasts before traveling during monsoon to avoid flooded routes or cancellations.

Arrival at Grishneshwar Temple & What to Expect

When you arrive near Grishneshwar Temple, you will find a well-maintained area with clear signboards guiding you to the temple entrance. The temple is located about 30 km from Aurangabad city center, accessible by local taxis and shared autos.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate around Aurangabad station and bus stand, offering reliable last-mile connectivity. Nearby, you will find small eateries and shops selling prasad and souvenirs. Accommodation options are limited near the temple, so staying in Aurangabad city is advisable for more choices and amenities.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Shirdi to Grishneshwar Temple is by train to Aurangabad followed by a taxi or local bus to the temple. This method balances cost, comfort, and travel time well for most pilgrims and tourists.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, starting your journey in the morning, and arranging local transport in Aurangabad will help you avoid common travel challenges. With these tips, you can confidently plan your spiritual trip and enjoy a smooth, hassle-free journey between these two important pilgrimage sites.