Nadi was established in 1947 after the US Navy built a base there. It has grown to become the third largest town in Fiji and it is an important holiday destination. Since its economy is almost entirely dependent on tourism, there are many facilities available in Nadi and it is a good place to stay if you want to explore the island of Viti Levu, on which it is located.

Nadi has a high proportion of Indians, whose ancestors where brought to Fiji to work in the canefields.

You can visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple at the southern end of the main street, but only if you didn't consume any alcohol or non-vegetarian food that day. The temple was founded in 1986.

On the main street are numerous restaurants and shops. The Market in Nadi has a good variety of Melanesian, Chinese and Indian products.

Nadi is a good place to organize scuba diving, golf, horse riding, rafting, jet-boat trips or trips in a light plane.

There are countless hotels, cafés and restaurants ranging from extremely cheap to incredibly expensive. Nadi is on the western side of Viti Levu Island, some 115 km northwest of Suva. Nadi International Airport is the largest airport in Fiji. It is 9 km from town.

Nadi ©Arnie Papp

Nadi shopping mall ©Michael Coghlan

Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple ©Brian