Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Sigatoka Sand Dunes

Sigatoka Sand Dunes Entrance

One of Fiji's most natural physical attractions is the magnificient expanse of sand dunes along the Coral Coast. The Sigatoka Sand Dunes are located directly west of the mouth of the Sigatoka River the second largest river in Fiji. According to research, the dunes are the product of fluvial erosion in the coastal hinterland and coastal dune forming processes. The extensive dune system covers an area of 650 hectares and comprises a series of parabolic sand dunes of various ages and activities.
Passing years have seen various groups of scientists and researchers alike, combing the dunes for evidence of ancient living. Many successful in the process, and have contributed to the credibility of the dunes as a major historical attraction. The Dunes are the location of one of Fiji`s earliest recorded prehistoric sites. Evidence of the past is clearly visible throughout the dune system as pottery scatters, stone tools & mechanisms, human remains and other archaeological relics continue to be unearthed by natural processes. Nearly half the area is unstable, especially in the east. The vegetation is predominantly native forest and introduced herbaceous communities.
Entrance to the Sigatoka Sand Dunes
This however has not prevented the birth of new village communities around the dunes, and you can find accommodation close to the dunes if you intend on an extended stay in order to explore.

The Naag Temple in Vanua Levu

The most attractive place in Labasa in Vanua Levu is the Naag Temple. It is located about 45 minutes away from Labasa town being located right beside the road along the Nagigi road. The reason for it being so eminent is that it is believed that the figure in the temple is of a rapidly growing stone in the form of the Hindu Snake god (Naag). It so began to grow that the construction of the temple roof had to be extended to cater for its growth. It still rapidly grew and this created problems for the Naag Mandir committe to keep extending the roof structure. Discussions amongst hindu priest and brahamins were help and this conlcluded to uphold a prayer to the snake god (Naag) to halt the growth but still endure its presence and blessings on the people. Till then, the figure has come to a halt in the growth. The people all over the world come to visit/pray this eminent figure of the (Naag Devta) if they come over to Labasa.
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More Pictures of the inside of the Naag Temple can be viewed here.

Udre Udre (The Man Eater- Cannibalism)

Rakiraki:Fiji's most notorious cannibal and tribal chief is buried here, and the 872 stones surrounding his tomb represent each of his unlucky victims.It is believed that this tribal chief had eaten 872 humans and it was believed that if he would have reached 1000, he would have become immortal but somehow he died. This sounds unrealistic but upon investigation of the grave size, one would definitely come to believe it.
Click here to learn more about Udre Udre.