Top Things to do in Cordillera Region
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The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Cordillera Region, Luzon
Discover the best top things to do in Cordillera Region, Philippines including Batad Rice Terraces, Banaue Rice Terraces, Mt. Pulag National Park, Sumaguing Cave, Bomod-Ok (Big) Falls, Philippine Military Academy, Pink Sisters’ Convent and Chapel, Mount Jumbo, Mount Ulap, Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto.
Restaurants in Cordillera Region
1. Batad Rice Terraces
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 689 reviews
Reviewed By 865cr - Washington DC, United States
We did a 3 day trek Day 1- Pula Cambulo, Day 2- Batad Day 3 short hike and back to Banaue. Day 1 was a long hike, but very nice and few people. Day 2 you arrive at Batad, definitely the most picturesque terraces, but also the most crowded with many tourists. You also visit the waterfall. You are done by 2:30pm and do nothing the rest of the day. Day 3- you do a 2 hour hike (very nice hike), then go back to Banaue, so if you are taking the night bus, you have 8+ hours to kill. Unless you are looking for downtime, I would just combine this into 2 days.
2. Banaue Rice Terraces
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 944 reviews
Spectacular terraces were carved out from mountain ranges some 2000 years ago with primitive handtools.
Reviewed By AjKamath - Hong Kong, China
This is one of the most spectacular views and landscapes in my opinion. The rice terraces are over 1000 years old and it is impressive to see how it was built back in those days where they did not have electricity and modern heavy machinery. The villages are still quite disconnected from the world - not many spots where you have good WiFi coverage- especially around Batad. That’s not necessarily a bad thing as you’re assured of time away from the usual city life and enjoy nature in the best way possible. The villagers are very friendly and welcoming. Getting there - take a bus from Manila, about 8 hours by road. Tickets can be booked online quite easily. Please beware of the extreme AC in the Coda (purple) bus!! Carry jackets n cover yourself to survive. They DO NOT adjust the temperature even if you’re freezing! Once there I think 2 days is more than enough to cover the region and visit all the important spots - Banaue view point, Batad village and view point, Ducligan Snake river, San Fernando, etc. I stayed at Bogah home stay and had an absolutely AMAZING experience. I recommend getting in touch with Denwil ([email protected]) who can organize everything at pretty good deals. I even got to stay with his family in Batad and help them harvest the rice :) one of the highlights of my trip and something that you can do in June-July if the rice is ready for harvest. The hikes are definitely not easy so recommend good hiking shoes and appropriate hiking clothes/gear. Do go with a guide to ensure you’re headed on the right path. It’s quite slippery - especially after rains. Food is good - not great. Carry your own supply of snacks etc. to be safe. Not too many shops sound so good to stock up on the necessities. Rice wine is also something worth trying - I got lucky to get some of the fresh distilled wine from the freshly harvested rice and it was GOOD! :) Overall - I definitely think it’s a MUST DO while in Philippines. Really amazing and experience that you will remember over time.
3. Mt. Pulag National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 210 reviews
Reviewed By onlineguru - Bhilai, India
Mt. Pulag stands as Luzon’s highest peak,at 2,926 meters above sea level.visitors can catch glimpses of the Milky Way Galaxy at dawn . Referred as Sea of clouds. Very nice Picturesque > Four trails take you up the mountain for for few you need prior permission from DENR. Its also famous International destination for people who love nature , hike and galaxy.
4. Sumaguing Cave
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 788 reviews
Reviewed By nicosamneil - Cebu Island, Philippines
Amazed by the stone formations. Adventure is somehow slippery so dont wear slippers that are hard, much better if slip resistant. Dont wear fancy clothes, an outdoor outfit would do since u'll get wet by the cold water that is flowing inside. Lucky we have an accomodating guide named artuto which is clearly a veteran in giving tours.
5. Bomod-Ok (Big) Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 265 reviews
Reviewed By PrinceIori - Bulacan Province, Philippines
Really enjoy the view even though it’s tiring to reach the waterfalls. It was really impressive place to see and soak in the cold water after a tiring trek.
6. Philippine Military Academy
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 272 reviews
Reviewed By cyrilgracer - General Trias, Philippines
we saw military tanks around the place. You can ride and take photos. Very peaceful place and guarded by military.
7. Pink Sisters’ Convent and Chapel
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 96 reviews
Reviewed By samboymacalma9 - Baguio, Philippines
Of the many churches that Baguio is known for, Pink Sister's Convent and Chapel is well-known and adored as it has been a witness to any answered prayers in any form - personal supplication, professional promotion, examinations, health and wellness wishes, and even relationships. An hour mass at the said church will surely make you feel spiritually full. The solemnity of the mass which is accentuated by the penchant of the sisters in chorus creates a very heavenly atmosphere that sets the tone by which deep personal prayers are uttered and sent.
8. Mount Jumbo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14 reviews
Reviewed By I2461TSashleyp
Locally known as Mount Yangbew, this hike is a wonderful trip off the beaten path. I recommend going early in the morning as the colors of the sky are beautiful at that time. The afternoons are often cloudy. The hike is short but hard and completely worth it. There are a few parking spaces up the cemented part of the road. After that street parking is available on the shoulder before turning up to Yangbew.
9. Mount Ulap
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 59 reviews
Reviewed By maevelenasendin - Baguio, Philippines
Whether you are looking for bonding with family or just plain nature trip, this is a wonderful trail to experience and explore both. Super worth every penny to complete the trail. Trail is rated 3/10 but I will say it is 4 or 5 for beginners like us. Some tips on mountain climbing techniques are a must, like keep a pace that suits your body, don’t drink too much water at once, just enough to keep your throat wet, breathe through nose and not mouth come in handy when you are doing any climbing activity. Most important start early as sun can take a toll even if temp is 12 to 15 deg. We arrived at 9 and finished by 1:30pm, of course with numerous stops to catch a breath or sooth our aching muscles.
10. Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 215 reviews
Reviewed By FirstTimerHochiminh - Pasay, Philippines
Whether you are a catholic or a non-catholic visiting the Grotto is highly recommended. Aside from fulfillment of going up catching your breath, once you reach the icon of the Lady of Lourdes, the breathtaking view of the nearby area and the grotto itself is mesmerizing. You will never regret going up when your are already on your way down the hill. Say a prayer in the chapel, light a candle or place a prayer request in the envelopes provided, if you are a believer then its a must.
