Sagada


In the Mountain Province, past Bontoc, is the scenic valley of Sagada (in Filipino, the name is synonymous with sagad, as it is located high up in the mountains). The zigzag rough road to Sagada features the dense forests and rice and vegetable terraces of Bontoc. From Banaue, Ifugao, you will pass by Mt. Polis, the boundary to Mountain Province. It is the highest peak in the Cordilleras. Without the sun, the mist will envelope you and you will be literally walking amongst the clouds.

Sagada showcases pine forests, Limestone cliffs (as seen in the Echo Valley) with subterranean caves, misty slopes and stone-walled terraces (just like that of the Bay-yo Terraces).

The native Igorots would place their dead in wooden caskets and stack them in the caves, hence, Sagada is famous for its Burial Caves. One burial cave can be spotted along the main road. Other caskets are perched on rock outcroppings within eyesight from across the road. These are best known as the Hanging Coffins.

Several caves nestle in Sagada. Sumaguing cave is one of those which is mostly frequented by tourists and spelunking enthusiasts. Exploring the cave will take its visitors approximately 3 hours. It is said to be the cleanest cave and it is advisable to go on barefoot because of its slippery trail. Catch the breathtaking natural stalagmite and stalagtite formations. For a more difficult exploration, visitors may try investing their energies to the Sumaguing Cave and Lumiang Cave Connection, Bomod-ok Waterfalls and Mt. Ampacao.

Own an original woven cloth or bag from the Sagada Weaving, Inc. It boasts of quality and intricate designs manually weaved by local folks. Then try catching the natural rock formations at the Rock Inn, where you may also witness the bright orange plantation during its September-February season.

Whet your appetite at the Yoghurt House, which offers several dishes and its popular yoghurt topped with real sliced bananas and/or strawberries or with a hefty sprinkle of granola.

Other places to visit are the Calvary Hills, Sagada Pottery Showroom, Bokong Falls (small) and the Underground River.

Accommodation at the following lodging houses cost a minimum of Php200 per head per night:
1. Residential Lodge
2. Traveler’s Inn
3. George Guesthouse

Aside from the route of Banaue, Sagada is also linked to Baguio by the Halsema Highway. It is known as the “bituka ng manok” because it offers a roller-coaster ride with jerky twists and turns.
2 Responses
  1. sheri amor Says:

    nice blog I'm proud to be filipino!!! :) nice set of pictures


  2. unknown Says:

    Try going to the place and be personally awestruck... (if you haven't been there yet)


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