Fiji: Garden of Sleeping Giant, Mudpool & Temple Day Trip

Summary

Temple colors, orchid gardens, and Fiji’s playful mud pools

You’ll wander through Fiji’s most colorful temple in Nadi, sample fruit at a buzzing market, stroll orchid paths at Garden of the Sleeping Giant, then get gloriously messy in Sabeto’s famous mud pools—all with pickup from Coral Coast and stories from your local guide. Expect laughter, quiet moments under palm trees, and maybe even new friends along the way.

What’s the experience like?

There was this sharp burst of color as soon as we stepped out at the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple in Nadi — reds, blues, golds all stacked up against the pale morning sky. Our guide, Jone, waved us over and pointed at the carvings on the temple gate. I tried to pronounce the name (I definitely got it wrong), and he just grinned. The air smelled faintly sweet and spicy — incense? — and there were families passing by in bright saris, some kids giggling at my clumsy attempt to wrap my scarf properly. We wandered around quietly for a bit; I caught myself staring up at the painted ceilings longer than I meant to.

After that we ducked into the market nearby. It was loud in a friendly way — vendors calling out prices, someone slicing mangoes right there on a crate. I bought something that looked like a cross between a cucumber and a zucchini (still not sure what it was). Jone told us about “Fiji time” while we waited for our driver — basically: don’t rush, just let things happen. That stuck with me more than I expected.

The drive out to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant was only about 20 minutes but felt like its own little adventure — everything green and humming with life outside the window. The garden itself is tucked away behind these low hills; you walk through shaded paths lined with orchids (so many shapes I’d never seen) and lily ponds that reflected flashes of sunlight through the leaves. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for birds chattering somewhere overhead. It felt peaceful in a way I’m still carrying around days later.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much at the Sabeto Mud Pool but honestly — smearing mud all over your arms and face with strangers is weirdly freeing. The mud is cool and sticky at first, then dries tight before you rinse off in warm spring water that smells faintly earthy but not bad. Some locals were joking around nearby, showing us how to really cake it on (I probably overdid it). There’s an option for massage too if you want to linger longer before heading back toward Coral Coast.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nadi temple, market, garden, and mudpool

• Visit Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple
• Explore local fruit and vegetable market
• Shop and sightsee in Nadi town
• Stroll through Garden of the Sleeping Giant
• Enjoy mud bath and hot springs

Top questions

How long does this Garden of Sleeping Giant & Mudpool tour take?

The day trip lasts about 6-7 hours including transfers from Coral Coast.

Is hotel pickup included from Coral Coast?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from Coral Coast hotels are included.

What should I wear for visiting Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple?

Wear clothes covering your shoulders; hats are not allowed inside the temple or village areas.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants can join; prams or strollers are welcome and infant seats are available if needed.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I get a massage at Sabeto Hot Springs?

Yes, massages are available onsite for an extra cost after enjoying the mud pool.

How far is Garden of Sleeping Giant from Nadi airport?

The garden is about a 20-minute drive from Nadi International Airport.

Are entry fees included in this day trip?

The tour includes entry to all listed sites as part of your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off from Coral Coast stays, bottled water throughout the journey, all entry fees for Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, Garden of the Sleeping Giant, and Sabeto Hot Springs & Mud Pool—plus plenty of time to wander markets or relax in thermal pools before heading back home.