Near the centre of Nadi, next to the Nadi River, is the Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu Temple. It is the largest temple of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the temple to admire its traditional Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings of Hindu gods, relax amid its peaceful confines and take part in colourful festivals.
In the past, Fiji attracted Indian migrants who came here to work on the sugar plantations. In 1984, eight craftsmen from India were invited to build a huge temple complex. Take time to admire the pyramid-shaped temples, each of which is characterized by a step design and adorned with intricate sculptures of gods, kings and warriors.
The complex honours Lord Murugan, the god of the seasonal rains, and a statue of the lord dominates the main temple. Other temples in the complex worship Ganesh, the elephant god, and Shiva, the supreme god. You’ll also find colourful frescoes depicting scenes from the Hindu religion.
After exploring the temples, find a spot to sit and enjoy the tranquility of the complex or to meditate. Come back in the early evening to watch the sun set over Denarau Island.
If you can, time your visit to the temple to coincide with one of the festivals or celebrations that take place throughout the year. One such event is the monthly Karthingai Puja festival, when devotees flock to the temple to offer fruit and flowers to the deities. Bigger festivals include Thaipusam in January and Panguni Uthiram Thiru-naal in April.
Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu Temple is at the southern end of the main shopping street in Nadi and can be reached by taxi from the airport, or by public bus from many Viti Levu resorts. You are welcome to enter the temple if you haven’t eaten meat on the day of your visit, and if you respect the temple’s etiquette. You should cover your shoulders and legs, and refrain from talking or taking photographs while inside the temple. The complex is open from around sunrise to sunset, but closes for a few hours in the early afternoon. There is no admission fee.
