Shirdi Trip Budget Planner 2026: Flight vs. Train Cost Comparison for Families -

Shirdi Trip Budget Planner 2026: Flight vs. Train Cost Comparison for Families

Choosing between the speed of a flight and the affordability of a train is the first big decision for any family planning a Shirdi yatra. In 2026, with improved connectivity to Shirdi International Airport (SAG) and dedicated pilgrim trains, both options have distinct advantages.

Here is a detailed breakdown to help you budget wisely for your family of four.

🚀 At a Glance: The 2026 Budget Snapshot

Expense Category	Flight Package (2 Days)	Train Package (4 Days)
Travel Duration	2–3 Hours	24–30 Hours
Approx. Cost (Per Adult)	₹16,500 – ₹19,500	₹6,500 – ₹9,500
Best Suited For	Senior Citizens & Working Pros	Large Families & Budget Travelers
Energy Level	High (Fresh for Darshan)	Medium (Travel fatigue)

✈️ Option 1: The Flight Package (Premium & Fast)

Perfect for families who want to complete their pilgrimage over a weekend without taking long leaves.

Round-trip Airfare: ₹10,000 – ₹14,000 (Madurai/Chennai/Coimbatore to Shirdi).
4-Star Accommodation: ₹2,500 – ₹4,500 per night (Twin sharing).
VIP Darshan Tickets: ₹200 per person (Usually included in packages).
Private AC Transfers: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 for airport pickups and Shani Shingnapur.
Food: ₹1,500 per day (Authentic South Indian meals).

Estimated Total for a Family of 4: ₹65,000 – ₹75,000

🚆 Option 2: The Train Package (Affordable & Traditional)

The classic way to travel, offering a chance for the family to bond over a long journey.

Rail Fare (3AC/2AC): ₹2,500 – ₹4,500 round-trip per person.
Budget Hotel Stay: ₹1,200 – ₹2,000 per night.
Local Auto/Taxi: ₹1,000 for local temple visits.
Food (Train + Shirdi): ₹2,500 per person for 4 days.
Darshan: Free (General queue) or ₹200 (VIP).

Estimated Total for a Family of 4: ₹28,000 – ₹38,000

🍱 Hidden Costs to Consider

Aarti Tickets: If you wish to attend the Kakad Aarti, it costs ₹600 per person, while other Aartis are ₹400.
Prasadalaya Meals: For a true spiritual experience, eat at the Shri Saibaba Prasadalaya. It is hygienic and incredibly affordable (often free or ₹50 for a VIP seating meal).
Shopping: Budget around ₹2,000 for Udi, photos, and small souvenirs for relatives back home.
Mobile Lockers: Phones aren’t allowed inside. Official lockers are cheap (₹5–10), but private hotel lockers are safer.

💡 Pro-Tips for 2026 Budgeting

Book 120 Days Early: For trains, the “Sainagar Shirdi Express” fills up 4 months in advance.
Weekday Advantage: Flight tickets and hotel rates in Shirdi are 20-30% cheaper on Tuesdays and Wednesdays compared to weekends.
Group Discounts: If traveling with more than 6 family members, ShirdiTemple.com can negotiate bulk rates for luxury vehicles and hotel rooms.