My Spiritual Solo Trip to Shirdi – A Memorable Journey

Travelling is something I always enjoy. But this time, it was not just a regular trip, it was a spiritual journey. I planned a solo trip to one of my favourite places — Shirdi, the land of Shirdi Sai Baba. Visiting Shirdi had been on my mind for a long time, and finally, I got the chance to make it happen.

Planning My Trip

I started my journey from Chennai, my hometown. After checking different travel options, I decided to take the Shirdi Sai Nagar Express. This is a direct train from Chennai Central Railway Station to Sai Nagar Shirdi Railway Station. This train runs only once a week, every Wednesday. I booked my ticket in advance and waited eagerly for my day to come.

The Train Journey

On Wednesday morning, I packed my bag with all essentials like clothes, toiletries, my mobile charger, some snacks, and a bottle of water. I reached Chennai Central Railway Station well before time because I didn’t want to miss the train. I love train journeys, and this one was special because it was my first solo spiritual trip.

The train journey was long, but I enjoyed it. I got a window seat, which made me very happy. Watching the changing scenery — green fields, villages, and distant mountains — was so peaceful. I spent my time listening to music, reading about Shirdi Sai Baba, and also talking to fellow passengers who were also going to Shirdi.

Arrival at Shirdi Railway Station

After a long journey, the train reached Shirdi Sai Nagar Railway Station on Thursday afternoon. The weather was warm but pleasant. Outside the station, there were many autos waiting for passengers. I took a share auto to reach near Sai Baba Mandir. The ride was short and gave me the first glimpse of Shirdi — small shops, hotels, and many pilgrims walking towards the temple.

Searching for a Stay

Since I was travelling alone, I was very careful about my accommodation. I asked some local people and auto drivers about budget-friendly and safe stays. Everyone was helpful and gave me different options. Finally, I decided to stay at Eshosans Palace, a beautiful and clean hotel near the temple. They charged me around Rs. 800 for one day, which I felt was reasonable.

At the hotel reception, I submitted my ID proofs, completed the check-in process, and went to my room. The room was simple but comfortable. I was tired after the long journey, so I took a small nap to relax.

Exploring Shirdi and First Darshan

After resting for a while, I freshened up and got ready to visit the famous Sai Baba Mandir. This was the main reason for my trip. As I walked towards the temple, I saw so many devotees from different parts of India. The atmosphere was full of devotion — people chanting Sai Baba’s name, buying flowers and prasad, and standing in queues for darshan.

I stood in the queue for around one hour. Though the queue was long, I didn’t feel tired. The energy and faith of all the devotees around me gave me a special strength. Finally, I had the darshan of Shri Shirdi Sai Baba. It was a magical moment. I felt peaceful, happy, and emotional at the same time. I prayed for my family, friends, and for myself. I also thanked Baba for giving me this chance to visit him.

After darshan, I spent some time sitting inside the temple. The calmness inside the temple touched my heart. The bhajans playing in the background added to the divine experience.

Visiting Dwarakamai and Chavadi

Next, I visited Dwarakamai, the place where Sai Baba spent a lot of time during his life. It was amazing to see his stone seat, grinding stone, and sacred dhuni (holy fire), which still burns today. After that, I went to Chavadi, where Sai Baba used to sleep on alternate nights. Visiting these places made me feel even closer to Baba and his life story.

Dinner Time

After the temple visit, I was quite hungry. I found a small restaurant nearby and had a Veg Fried Rice for dinner. The food was tasty and freshly cooked. Eating in a small local place gave me a homely feeling. After dinner, I walked back to my hotel, feeling tired but satisfied.

Early Morning Darshan

The next morning, Friday, I woke up early, around 5:00 AM. I wanted to visit the temple again before leaving Shirdi. After a quick bath, I walked to the temple. Early morning is the best time to visit as the crowd is smaller, and the atmosphere is very peaceful. I had another beautiful darshan of Sai Baba.

This time, after darshan, I sat quietly in one corner of the temple and did a small meditation. It felt like all my worries disappeared, and my heart filled with calmness and positivity. Before leaving the temple, I purchased some Sai Baba idols, photos, and prasad to take home for my family.

Breakfast and Return Journey

I had a simple breakfast of dosa and sambar from a small roadside eatery. The taste was homely and comforting. After breakfast, I took an auto back to Shirdi Railway Station. My return train to Chennai was scheduled to leave at 11:00 AM.

The train journey back was also peaceful, though I felt a little sad leaving Shirdi so soon. However, my heart was full of happiness because I had experienced Sai Baba’s divine presence and spent time in such a holy place.

Reaching Chennai

I reached Chennai on Saturday morning. My family was waiting to hear all about my trip. I shared my beautiful experience with them and showed them the prasad and souvenirs I had brought from Shirdi. They were happy and felt blessed too.

My Feelings After the Trip

This solo trip was very special for me. It was not just about visiting a new place but about connecting with my inner self. Travelling alone taught me many things — how to be independent, how to find my way, and how to enjoy my own company. More than anything, it deepened my faith in Sai Baba.

Sometimes, we get so busy in life that we forget to pause and reflect. This trip gave me that pause. Sitting in the temple, watching other devotees, and feeling the spiritual energy around me made me realize how simple faith can bring so much peace. Whether you are religious or not, places like Shirdi have a unique way of touching your heart.

Final Thoughts

I hope to visit Shirdi again, maybe with my family next time. But this solo trip will always have a special place in my heart. If you have never been to Shirdi, I strongly recommend you to visit at least once. It is not just a pilgrimage, it is a journey of the heart.

Thank you for reading about my experience. I hope my story inspires you to take your own spiritual trip someday.