Shirdi is a small town in Maharashtra that is famous for being the home of Sai Baba, a revered saint who is worshipped by millions of people around the world. However, not far from Shirdi, there is another town that is gaining popularity for a different reason - Shikhar Shingnapur. This small village is renowned for its unique temple that has no doors or locks and is believed to be protected by the deity himself. Let's take a closer look at this fascinating place.
Shikhar Shingnapur is located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, about 70 km from Shirdi. The village is home to a temple dedicated to Lord Shani, the Hindu god of the planet Saturn. What makes this temple unique is that it has no doors or locks, and the idol of Lord Shani is placed on an open platform, exposed to the elements.
The villagers believe that Lord Shani protects the temple and the village, and that no theft or crime can occur in the village due to his divine presence. As a result, the villagers do not have doors or locks on their houses, and they feel safe and secure in their community.
The temple itself is a simple structure made of stone and cement, with a tall flagpole at the entrance. The idol of Lord Shani is a black stone, about five feet tall, and is said to have been self-manifested. The temple is open to all visitors, and there are no restrictions on who can enter or offer prayers.
There are a few other things to see and do in Shikhar Shingnapur. The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and visitors can take a leisurely walk through the fields and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. There are also a few shops and restaurants in the village where visitors can buy souvenirs or enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian meal.
This temple is dedicated to the goddess of the village and is located just a few minutes away from the Shani Temple. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a must-visit destination for those interested in Hindu mythology.
Ranjangaon Ganpati Temple:
This temple is located around 70 km from Shani Shingnapur and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is one of the eight Ashtavinayak temples in Maharashtra and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Ganesha.
This temple is located around 130 km from Shani Shingnapur and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva.
This historic fort is located around 40 km from Shani Shingnapur and is a great place to explore the history and architecture of the region. The fort is known for its beautiful architecture and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Things To Do In Shikhar Shingnapur
Walk around the village:
Take a stroll through the streets of Shikhar Shingnapur and admire the simple architecture of the houses and shops. You may also spot some interesting sights, such as a well or a shrine dedicated to a local deity.
Visit nearby attractions:
There are a few places of interest within driving distance of Shikhar Shingnapur that are worth checking out. For example, the Shirdi Sai Baba temple, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, is just an hour's drive away. The historic city of Aurangabad, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Ajanta and Ellora caves, is also within reach.
Enjoy nature:
Shikhar Shingnapur is surrounded by picturesque countryside, with fields and hills stretching as far as the eye can see. Take a walk or a drive through the rural landscape and soak in the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere.
Try local food:
There are a few restaurants and eateries in Shikhar Shingnapur that serve authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. Don't miss the chance to try dishes such as vada pav (a popular street food), misal pav (a spicy lentil curry served with bread), or thali (a platter of various vegetarian dishes).
Attend local festivals:
If you're lucky enough to be in Shikhar Shingnapur during a festival or special occasion, don't miss the chance to witness the celebrations. The village is known for its lively and colorful festivals, such as the Shani Jayanti (birthday of Lord Shani) and the annual fair held in honor of the deity.