Shani Shingnapur Temple: History, Timings, How to Reach & Travel Guide!

Posted on Thursday, September 4th, 2025 by Chakshu Kaur Leave a Comment

Shani Shingnapur in Maharashtra is a village where houses have no doors and still no crime takes place. It is mainly known for the Shani Temple dedicated to Lord Shani. Pilgrims from across the globe visit here to seek blessings.

The temple is open 24/7 with no entry fee and yes midnight or midday it’s always time for darshan here! The vibe in Shani Shingnapur is both spiritual and chill locals say the whole village feels protected by Lord Shani’s blessings. In fact this place has even acquired a spot in the Guinness World Records for its many incredible miracles. If you’re curious to know about this temple make sure to visit the Shani Temple after reading all the details below.

History of Shani Shingnapur

The story of Shani Shingnapur in Maharashtra is more than 300 years old and locals believe that a big black stone of Lord Shani appeared here on its own also called a Swayambhu (self-emerged) that is why the Shani Temple is considered one of the most powerful and religious temples dedicated to Shani Dev.

According to reports when the statue was first discovered villagers tried to move it but couldn’t later Lord Shani appeared in a villager’s dream and instructed that it must remain under the open skull without a roof since then the temple has stood roofless a unique tradition that continues even today.

The Shani Shingnapur Temple is not just about worship it is also a symbol of trust and fearlessness. The entire village lives without doors or locks believing that Lord Shani himself protects them. 

Best Time to Visit Shani Shingnapur

You can visit Shani Shingnapur Temple anytime during the year the temple is open 24/7 but if you want the amazing experience the winter months between October and March are perfect and for a more spiritual experience many devotees prefer visiting on Saturdays as the day is considered most auspicious for Lord Shani. 

If you want to see the celebrations plan your trip during Shani Amavasya when thousands of people gather for rituals.

Monsoons (June to September) can also be a good time if you want to enjoy the greenery around the villagel and Summers (April to June) can get quite hot in this part of Maharashtra so it’s less comfortable for long stays.

Nearby Places to Visit Around Shani Shingnapur

A trip to Shani Shingnapur, Maharashtra can be combined with other spiritual and cultural places nearby you can check places below near the Shani Temple:

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple (70 km): 

One of the most famous religious places in India is dedicated to Sai Baba where millions of devotees visit every year.

Ahmednagar (35 km): 

Ahmednagar is known for the Ahmednagar Fort and historical sites which are perfect if you enjoy exploring heritage.

Aurangabad (90 km):

Aurangabad is famous for Ajanta and Ellora Caves (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), Bibi ka Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort.

Nashik (150 km): 

A spiritual city on the banks of the Godavari River is known for Kumbh Mela, Trimbakeshwar Temple and vineyards.

Pandharpur (around 230 km): 

A major pilgrimage destination dedicated to Lord Vitthal attracting devotees throughout the year.

These nearby attractions make your journey more satisfying as you can cover multiple important sites along with your darshan at Shani Shingnapur Temple.

How to Reach Shani Shingnapur?

Reaching Shani Shingnapur, Maharashtra is quite easy and simple since it is well-connected to major cities you can reach there by road, rail, and air. The temple is located about 70 km from Shirdi and 35 km from Ahmednagar making it a popular stop for devotees visiting Shirdi Sai Baba Temple.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport (around 90 km away) and you can also fly to Pune Airport (about 160 km away) and then take a taxi or bus to reach Shani Shingnapur.
• By Train: The closest railway station is Ahmednagar Railway Station (35 km) from here regular buses and cabs are available to the temple.
• By Road: Shani Shingnapur is connected by state highways and national highways frequent buses run from cities like Shirdi, Ahmednagar, Pune, and Aurangabad and private taxis and shared jeeps are also easily available.

Shani Shingnapur Temple Timings & Entry Details

One of the most fascinating things about the Shani Shingnapur Temple is that it is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Devotees can visit at any time morning, evening, or even midnight for darshan of Lord Shani. There is no entry fee to the temple, which makes it accessible for everyone.

• Darshan Timings: Open round-the-clock (24/7)
• Special Day: Saturdays are considered the most auspicious so expect larger crowds.
• Entry Fee: None (darshan is completely free)
• Dress Code: While there’s no strict dress code devotees are encouraged to wear modest, traditional clothes. Men performing rituals are often seen in dhotis.

During special occasions like Shani Amavasya you may have to wait in long queues but the management usually arranges proper crowd control and for regular days darshan is smooth and doesn’t take much time.

Tips for Visitors to Shani Shingnapur

A few simple tips can make your visit to Shani Shingnapur smoother and more meaningful:

• Carry Offerings: Mustard oil, black sesame seeds, black cloth and flowers are the main offerings for Lord Shani. You’ll find stalls outside the temple selling puja kits.
• Best Day to Visit: Saturdays and Shani Amavasya are spiritually powerful but also the most crowded. If you prefer a peaceful darshan plan on weekdays.
• Stay Options: Since Shani Shingnapur is a small village accommodation options are limited. Most devotees stay in Shirdi or Ahmednagar and make a day trip to the temple.
• Footwear & Belongings: You’ll need to leave footwear outside the temple premises. Keep your belongings light as the temple can get crowded.
• Women’s Entry: Women are now allowed to climb the temple platform and offer prayers so everyone in the family can participate in rituals.
• Nearby Facilities: Restrooms, food stalls, and prasad counters are available around the temple complex.

Keeping these tips in mind ensures you have a comfortable visit while soaking in the spiritual energy of Shani Shingnapur, Maharashtra.

Architecture of Shani Temple

Unlike most temples in India the Shani Temple at Shani Shingnapur has a very simple and unique design. There are no big carvings, no tall towers, and no traditional sanctum here. Instead, the main idol of Lord Shani, a five-and-a-half-foot black stone, stands on an open platform under the open sky.

The open-air setting is symbolic showing that Shani Dev sees everything without barriers. Devotees believe this setup allows his blessings and protection to directly reach the people. Around the platform there are small areas for devotees to light diyas, offer mustard oil, flowers or black sesame seeds.

Conclusion

A visit to Shani Shingnapur, Maharashtra is not just about darshan at the Shani Temple it’s about experiencing a village that lives by faith, trust, and devotion.

If you’re planning your trip and need help with travel bookings, flights, or packages, our team at Travanya is here to make your journey smooth and budget-friendly. Contact Us today and let us plan your perfect visit to Shani Shingnapur Temple!

FAQs on Flights

Q1. Where is Shani Shingnapur located?

A: Shani Shingnapur is a village in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra famous for the open-air Shani Temple dedicated to Lord Shani Dev.

Q2. Why is Shani Shingnapur called the doorless village?

A: Houses and shops in Shani Shingnapur traditionally have no doors or locks. Locals believe Lord Shani protects them and anyone attempting theft will face his punishment.

Q3. What is special about Shani Shingnapur Temple?

A: The Shani Temple has a unique idol of Lord Shani in the form of a large black stone placed under the open sky, with no roof or walls covering it.

Q4. What are the temple timings of Shani Shingnapur?

A: The temple is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with free entry for all devotees.

Q5. When is the best time to visit Shani Shingnapur?

A: The ideal time is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. Saturdays and Shani Amavasya are considered the most auspicious days to visit.

Q6. How can I reach Shani Shingnapur?

A: The temple is about 35 km from Ahmednagar and 70 km from Shirdi. The nearest airport is in Aurangabad (90 km), while Ahmednagar is the closest railway station.

Q7. Can women enter Shani Shingnapur Temple?

A: Yes, women are now allowed to climb the temple platform and offer prayers, just like men.