Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Shirdi. Shirdi Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 70 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside SAG
Before heading into Shirdi, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for India vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Shirdi is roughly 70 minutes from SAG via Local Taxis. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Shirdi
You have two main options for getting from Shirdi Airport into town:
- Local Taxis: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How to Spend Your Time in Shirdi
If you head into Shirdi, here are two things worth checking out:
Shri Saibaba Sansthan Temple is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Dixit Wada Museum is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SAG, check out Sai Baba Photos & Pooja Store or Observation Window/Area to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near SAG
In Shirdi
If you make it into town, Hotel Sai Amrut Pure Veg is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Rajdhani Restaurant Shirdi.
Inside SAG
If you’re staying in the terminal, Travel & Eat is your main option. Tea & Coffee Kiosk works too if you want something quick.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Shirdi layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$4 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$19 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Shirdi, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at SAG can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Shirdi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SAG is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Shirdi and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SAG has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Shirdi genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.