Shani Shingnapur Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Shani Shingnapur, home to the famous Shani temple.


Introduction to Shani Shingnapur

Shani Shingnapur is a small village located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, India. It is famous for its Shani temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shani, the god of destiny and fortune. The village is unique in that there are no doors or locks on any of the houses, as it is believed that Lord Shani protects the village and its residents from theft and other crimes.

List of Places to Visit in Shani Shingnapur

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shani temple – The main attraction of Shani Shingnapur is the Shani temple. It is believed that the idol of Lord Shani in the temple is “Swayambhu,” i.e., it emerged from the earth’s surface by itself.

Natural Attractions of Shani Shingnapur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mula Dam – Located around 20 km from Shani Shingnapur, Mula Dam is a popular picnic spot surrounded by beautiful hills and a scenic lake. It offers opportunities for boating and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shani Shingnapur

  • There are no specific hiking or biking routes in Shani Shingnapur. However, visitors can take a walk around the village and explore the local culture and traditions.

Best Things to Do in Shani Shingnapur: Activities and Tours

  • Attend the Aarti – The Aarti at the Shani temple is a must-attend for visitors. It is performed five times a day and is a beautiful sight to witness.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shani Shingnapur

Day Itinerary
1 Arrival and check-in
2 Visit the Shani temple and attend the Aarti
3 Visit Mula Dam and enjoy water sports
4-5 Explore the village and interact with the locals
6 Visit nearby attractions like Shirdi and Nashik
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Shani Shingnapur

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maharashtrian Thali – A traditional Maharashtrian meal consisting of rice, chapati, dal, vegetables, and a variety of chutneys and pickles.
  • Misal Pav – A spicy lentil curry served with bread.

Local Beverages

  • Sugarcane Juice – A refreshing drink made from fresh sugarcane and served with lemon and mint.

Where to Stay in Shani Shingnapur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Kuber Inn – A budget hotel located near the temple.
  • Hotel Shri Leela – A mid-range hotel with clean rooms and good amenities.

What to Buy in Shani Shingnapur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Shani Yantra – A Yantra is a mystical diagram used in Hinduism for worship and mediation.
  • Rudraksha Beads – Believed to have spiritual and health benefits.

Local Culture and Customs of Shani Shingnapur

The village of Shani Shingnapur is famous for its unique tradition of having no doors or locks on any of the houses. It is said that the village has not witnessed any theft or vandalism in centuries due to the protection provided by Lord Shani.

Best Time to Visit Shani Shingnapur

The best time to visit Shani Shingnapur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the attractions of the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shani Shingnapur

Do:

  • Dress appropriately while visiting the temple.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Do not touch or disturb any of the offerings or idols at the temple.
  • Do not take photographs inside the temple premises.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shani Shingnapur

Shani Shingnapur is a safe place to visit, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should take care of their belongings and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Shani Shingnapur

The village has basic medical facilities, but visitors should carry their medications and consult their doctors before traveling to Shani Shingnapur.

Getting to Shani Shingnapur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shani Shingnapur

The nearest airport to Shani Shingnapur is the Pune International Airport, which is located around 150 km away.

Bus Stations Near Shani Shingnapur

Shani Shingnapur has its bus stand, and buses from major cities in Maharashtra connect to the village.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car or taxi to reach Shani Shingnapur from nearby cities like Pune or Aurangabad.

How to Get Around in Shani Shingnapur

The village is small and can be explored on foot.

Where to Go Next from Shani Shingnapur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Shirdi – A famous pilgrimage site located around 65 km from Shani Shingnapur. It is known for its Sai Baba temple.
  • Nashik – Located around 120 km from Shani Shingnapur, Nashik is famous for its vineyards and the Kumbh Mela festival.

Conclusion

Shani Shingnapur is a unique village with a vibrant culture and tradition. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the cultural heritage of Maharashtra. Plan your trip well in advance, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful village.