Maharashtra is known for its fair share of religious shrines and holy places. These pilgrimage sites are thronged by tourists from India as well as abroad year after year. Among them, one of the most revered places is Shirdi, which is known to be the erstwhile abode of the holy saint - Sai Baba. Often referred to as the Child of God, he preached universal brotherhood and tolerance towards all religions. Almost every activity at this destination is one or other way related to this great saint. Each day, devotees queue up from dawn to catch a glimpse of the life-size statue of Sai Baba and seek his blessings. Considering the number of pilgrims that visit this place all through the year, a host of accommodation options have mushroomed up here in recent years. Pilgrims and tourists can opt from 5, 4 and 3 star hotels in Shirdi depending upon their requirements and budget. Most of these accommodation units are situated near the temple for the convenience of travellers.
Accommodation in the Holy Town
The premium properties available here are ideal for a lavish stay while cheap lodgings are best suited for tourists with budget constraints. However, if pilgrims want to enjoy a luxurious stay without cutting down on their travel budget, 3 star establishments can be an ideal choice for them. These properties offer all required amenities and services to make the stay pleasant for guests. Not only do these provide standard facilities, but are also known for their warm hospitality. Keeping in mind the piousness of this religious place, hotels in this region serve purely vegetarian food. The rooms in these establishments are equipped with all the modern comforts to provide a comfortable experience to guests.
Services Offered
The in-house conveniences offered differ from one hotel to another. These establishments provide mini-bar, tea or coffee maker and air-conditioner as room amenities. Many of the 3 star properties also have health clubs, swimming pools, indoor and outdoor games facilities as recreational options for their guests. Some of these even have a separate play area for children. Travel desk is another important offering of these establishments as it makes convenient for pilgrims to visit the main Sai Temple and other prominent shrines within the bounds of this holy place.
Most of the popular properties are located close to the main temple complex and Sainagar Shirdi Railway Station. This benefits tourists in two ways - firstly, it becomes easier for them to visit the shrine - secondly, it cuts down on the hassles of travelling to the temple town. A handful of Shirdi hotels also make the necessary arrangements for darshan at the main shrine as well as other nearby temples. There are other places of interest that devotees can visit by availing travel services offered at these accommodations. Few of these holy sites are Gurusthan, Dwarkamani Mosque, Kandoba Temple, Narsimha Mandir, Shani Mandir and Sakori Ashram. Though, there is no such ideal time to visit this sacred town, but a sojourn during the months from January to March is advisable as this is the period when the temperature remains pleasant.
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