Daniel Maches
When we talk of Mountain Province, the first thing that comes to mind is Sagada. This remote town boasts the deepest caves in the country, towering waterfalls, panoramic mountain views, mossy forests, scenic rice terraces, and hanging coffins. During the peak season, Sagada becomes so crowded that you often have to contend with rows of tourists for a good view.
If you’ve been visiting Sagada multiple times and want to try off-beaten destinations that equally meaningful and relaxed experiences in the province, check out these other destinations.
Mt. Kupapey
- Location: Brgy. Maligcong, Bontoc, Mt. Province
Catch a stunning view of the sunrise and the sea of clouds when you climb to Mt Kupapey. It also offers a bird’s eye view of Maligcong Rice Terraces, one of the emerging tourist attractions in Mountain Province. The hike to the summit takes about an hour. Expect to tread on pine forests and grasslands.
Bayyo Rice Terraces
- Location: Brgy. Bayyo, Bontoc, Mt. Province
Set on the backdrop of forest-clad mountains is Bayyo Rice Terraces. It appears like gentle cascades and is best seen when the rice crops are golden brown. You can view the rice terraces when traveling to and from Banaue, Ifugao. There is a viewpoint along the road where you can also shoot photos of a beautiful river running below the rice terraces.
Alab Petroglyphs
- Location: Brgy. Alab, Bontoc, Mt. Province
The Alab Petroglyphs are ancient markings atop a huge boulder. Researchers say that these date back 3000 years ago, older than the Banaue Rice Terraces. The inscriptions showcase the culture of the people who formerly inhabited the area. You’ll have to hike steep terrains for 30 minutes to reach the site. Aside from the petroglyphs, you’ll also be able to glimpse into breathtaking mountain views and rock formations. There is also a small cave nearby where ancient people once lived.
Fowa-as Falls
- Location: Brgy Belwang, Sadanga, Mt. Province
Cascading for more than 75 meters, Fowa-as Falls is one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in the province. It carved a wide and deep pool with crystal-clear and icy-cold waters. Trekking to the falls takes about an hour from the village passing through stone-walled rice terraces. The river feeding the falls emanates from mossy forests upstream where deer and wild pigs live.
Mt. Kalawitan
- Location: Brgy. Poblacion, Sabangan, Mt. Province
Mt Kalawitan is one of the highest peaks in the Philippines, with an estimated height of 2,714 meters above sea level. It takes 7-8 hours to reach the summit across pine and mossy forests. While atop, you can glimpse of a stunning sea of clouds and sunrise. Dwarf bamboos also abound, including a plethora of other flora and fauna species.
Natonin Rice Terraces
- Location: Natonin, Mt. Province
Did you know that the longest stretch of rice terraces in the country are not those found in Banaue, Ifugao? They are actually located in Natonin, an eastern municipality. Natonin Rice Terraces stretch unbroken for miles. When visiting here, you’ll not only get awed by the views but also learn the rich culture of the communities. Some locals would readily invite you to join in planting rice while others would offer free coffee and native snacks.
