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The most important trick to having a smooth and comfortable visit to Shirdi is by booking your Darshan pass online in advance. Yes, the line for "free darshan" can take anywhere from three hours up to ten on certain days but with a paid "VIP" (very cheap, around ₹200) or specific time slot pass booked through the official website of Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust, wait times are reduced to less than an hour. Book this weeks before you travel. This single hack will save your legs and your energy allowing you to enjoy the spiritual experience without exhaustion.

Shri Saibaba Prasadalaya is located a little away from the temple and houses one of the largest solar kitchens in the world. Here, a simple holy meal is served to thousands of devotees every day for a nominal fee (or free). The scale is breathtaking, hygiene impeccable, and yes – this food has been blessed! It’s an amazing experience sitting on floors with hundreds eating together; something which will humble you too. Ask your hotel staff about that free bus going towards Prasadalaya.

About footwear, do not leave your shoes with those unauthorized street vendors who will force you to buy their overpriced flowers in return for safe-keeping of your shoes. Use the official shoe stands ("Chappal Stand") provided by the Temple Trust near the gates or better still, leave your expensive footwear inside your room at Hotel V Star and wear cheap flip-flops to the temple. That is one less thing to worry about losing-your-shoes-or-getting-scammed.

Time your visit. Thursday is considered to be the holy day for Sai Baba. The town runs full on that day. If you want a more peaceful visit, come on Monday or Tuesday.Kakad Aarti-(Morning Prayer 4:30 AM)-If possible attend this prayer,the environment before dawn is electrifying and most touching darkness.You have to book another specific pass online for this particular Aarti.Keep some cash handy while hotel and big shops accept cards the small auto rickshaws and street vendors deal strictly in cash.