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When it comes to the most famous Shani Dev temples in India, Shani Shingnapur Temple is at the top of the list. Located in the small village of Shani Shingnapur, the temple is known for its outdoor sanctum with a stone idol. This temple is famous not only for its spiritual significance but also for its unique feature—the absence of any doors or locks in the entire village, which is believed to be under the divine protection of Lord Shani. The temple’s history, rich in myths and legends, and its distinct customs make it an extraordinary destination for spiritual seekers.
Quick Details About Shani Shingnapur Temple
Shani Shingnapur Address: Shani Shingnapur, Maharashtra
Presiding Deity: Lord Shani (Swayambhu form)
Shani Shingnapur Timings: Open 24 hours
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad Airport (IXU)
Nearest Railway Station: Rahuri Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: November and February
About Shani Shingnapur Temple
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shree Shaneshwar Devasthan Maharashtra happens to be a renowned religious site that is dedicated to Lord Shani, the Hindu god of the planet Saturn. Located in Shingnapur village in Ahmednagar district, the temple is highly sacred for devotees. The most fascinating thing about Shingnapur is that none of the houses in the village have doors. It is believed that the village is a “jagrut devasthan” (a living temple), signifying Lord Shani’s presence. According to locals, if anybody tries to commit a crime, Lord Shani punishes them and they are never able to leave the village.
Things To Do At Shani Shingnapur Temple
Your visit to Shree Shaneshwar Devasthan Shingnapur is incomplete without these activities:
1.Offer Prayers To Lord Shani
Photo: Naveen Raj Dhanapal / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only
The main activity at Shani Shingnapur Temple is offering prayers to Lord Shani. While you are at the temple, you can pour mustard oil on the idol and pray to Lord Shani to seek his blessings. It is believed that praying to Lord Shani reduces the effects of Shani Dosha. You can also chant Shani mantras for a trouble-free life.
2. Experience The Unique Rituals
Photo: Suraj Belbase / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Unlike other temples, the idol of Lord Shani at Shani Shingnapur is not housed in a sanctum. Instead, it is placed under the open sky. To participate in the daily rituals and prayers, you must take a holy bath and wear black clothes.
3. Explore The Doorless Village
Photo: Harshita Chadha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Shani Shingnapur is known as the “village without doors.” Most houses and shops in the area are without doors or locks because they believe that Lord Shani will protect them from theft and crime. While you are in the village, you can take a walk around the area to witness it for yourself. It is a fascinating tradition that will surely leave you thinking.
Places To Visit Near Shani Shingnapur Temple
Visiting Shani Shingnapur allows you to explore some of the popular spots in the area:
1. Renuka Darbaar Temple
Photo: Booradleyp1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located 7 km away, Renuka Darbaar Temple belongs to Goddess Renuka, an avatar of Maa Parvati. The interesting thing is the shape of the shrine, which resembles “Om.” This makes it the only temple in the world to have such an architecture. Besides the main idol, you will find many other deities inside the temple complex, including an 8-foot Durga idol.
Distance From Shani Shingnapur: 7 km
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
2. Dattatreya Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Dattatreya Temple is almost 40 km away from Shani Shingnapur. Despite the long distance, you can easily reach the shrine in a taxi or bus. Constructed in 1973, Dattatreya Temple is dedicated to saint Dattatreya, an avatar of the holy trinity Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. When visiting the shrine, you will notice elaborate carvings on the walls and statues. As per records, the temple was built by the villagers themselves. Since it remains open 24*7, you can visit anytime that’s suitable for you.
Distance From Shani Shingnapur: 39.2 km
Timings: 24 hours
3. Lakshmi Temple
Photo: Sukirti Vardhan / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Lakshmi Temple, also known as Gram Devatha Lakshmimatha is just a walking distance away from Shani Shingnapur. Even though the shrine is small, it holds a religious significance for Hindu devotees. Dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the temple is several years old. It is believed that it existed even before Shani Shingnapur Temple came into existence. According to locals, Goddess Lakshmi is the guardian deity of the village, protecting people from evil spirits.
Distance From Shani Shingnapur: 1 km
Timings: 24 hours
Where To Stay
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Finding comfortable accommodation near Shani Shingnapur is easy. There are plenty of budget-friendly hotels and lodges near the temple where you can book your stay and spend a pleasant time in the village. Some of the most preferred options include Hotel Shanirath Lodging, Nandini Pride, and Hotel Adiraj Palace and Lodging. They have all the basic amenities you need to enhance your stay.
Where To Eat
Photo: SwingingUvula / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
You can enjoy delicious Maharashtrian cuisine at the eateries near the temple. These restaurants are not only affordable, but they also serve quality food to visitors. There are also many roadside dhabas and stalls, where you can find both snacks and full-course meals. Some of the best places to eat that many travellers trust include Shivhari Family Point, Hotel Anjani, and Hotel Kinara.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: सुभाष राऊत / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- Check timings for aarti and darshan, so you can plan your visit accordingly.
- When visiting the temple, wear traditional Indian attire. But make sure not to wear anything red as it is not favoured by Lord Shani.
- While performing rituals, don’t look at the idol directly. Instead, you should turn your face towards the west as it is the correct direction to worship Lord Shani.
- You should never show your back to Lord Shani as it may displease him.
- If you want to make an offering to Lord Shani, make sure the items are black. Some of the favoured items include black clothes and black sesame seeds.
Shani Shingnapur Temple offers a unique spiritual experience, where faith and divine protection come together. Whether you seek blessings for prosperity or wish to experience the village’s extraordinary traditions, a visit here is sure to leave you inspired. Plan your visit today with Trip XL and embrace the divine presence of Lord Shani for peace and justice in your life.
Cover Photo: Booradleyp1 / Wikimedia Commons
