Looking for an adventure off the beaten path? ‘Unveiling Cordillera: Discover the Region’s Top Sights and Hidden Gems’ is your perfect guide to exploring one of the most stunning and culturally rich regions in the Philippines. From the iconic rice terraces to hidden waterfalls and quaint mountain villages, Cordillera has so much to offer beyond what you might expect. Get ready to uncover breathtaking views, local traditions, and hidden treasures that will make your visit unforgettable!
Burnham Park
(City park)
There are many things to do in Burnham City Park for people who want to unwind and have fun. The park’s exquisitely designed gardens are ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and photography. Paddle boating, fishing, and birdwatching are all possible on the park’s vast, tranquil lake. Sports fans can utilize the tennis courts and wide fields for soccer or frisbee, while families can enjoy the well-equipped playgrounds. In order to create a lively ambiance, the park also offers seasonal events including culinary festivals, outdoor concerts, and cultural performances. The picturesque walking routes that wind through forested regions provide a calm escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
Mines View Observation Deck
(Observation deck)
The Mines View Observation Deck is the ideal location for sightseeing and photography since it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the mining town of Itogon. In addition to taking beautiful pictures against the scenery, visitors can dress in authentic Igorot garb. There are local marketplaces in the vicinity where visitors can purchase handcrafted goods such silver jewelry, wood carvings, and textiles. A sampling of the local cuisine is provided by the food vendors lining the deck, which serve a range of snacks and specialties. Informational displays provide light on the region’s history, especially its mining past.
Batad Rice Terraces
(Historical landmark)
With breathtaking views of tumbling rice terraces carved into the mountains, the Batad Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlight the Ifugao people’s remarkable agricultural inventiveness. Visitors can wander along the winding roads between the fields to visit the terraces, which give stunning views of the surrounding area. The native Ifugao community has been cultivating these terraces for more than 2,000 years, and visitors can learn about the traditional farming practices they currently use. Hiking to the neighboring Batad Falls offers nature enthusiasts a chance to swim in the cold waters and a refreshing respite. Travelers can experience local friendliness and fully immerse themselves in the serene, picturesque surroundings by staying in traditional Ifugao huts.
Baguio Botanical Garden
(Botanical garden)
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Baguio’s Botanical Garden provides a tranquil haven with an abundance of greenery and colorful blooms. While admiring the splendor of the pine trees and vibrant flowers, visitors can take leisurely walks along meandering walkways. Traditional Igorot huts can also be seen in the garden, offering a window into the local indigenous way of life. The stunning scenery and native plants make for great photo ops for people who enjoy taking images. The garden also holds a number of events and activities, which makes it a popular destination for visitors all year round.
BenCab Museum
(Art museum)
The works of National Artist Benedicto Cabrera and other Filipino painters are on display at the BenCab Museum in Baguio, providing a fascinating cultural experience. A vast array of modern and indigenous artwork, including as sculptures, paintings, and installations, is available for visitors to view. With a stunning mountain backdrop, the museum’s architecture combines modern and traditional Filipino elements. Its gardens, which include peaceful strolling trails and sculptures, offer a peaceful environment for rest and introspection. With displays showcasing the artwork, crafts, and customs of numerous ethnic groups, the museum also encourages the preservation of native Filipino culture. The museum is a vibrant attraction for both tourists and art enthusiasts, hosting workshops, events, and special exhibitions.
Strawberry Farm – Home of Giant Strawberry Cake
(Farm)
Visitors can take in the unique experience of harvesting ripe, fresh strawberries straight from the fields at the Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad, Baguio. A pleasant and interactive pastime for people of all ages, visitors may walk along rows of strawberry bushes and fill their baskets with delectable, sweet berries. In addition, the farm sells additional fresh food as souvenirs, including flowers and veggies. There are stands offering strawberry-based goods including ice cream, pastries, and jams for those who would like have a more laid-back experience. The charming farm, tucked away in the crisp mountain air, makes the ideal photo location. The farm is also an excellent resource for learning about local agriculture and sustainable farming methods.
Baguio Cathedral of Our Lady of the Atonement
(Catholic cathedral)
The Baguio Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Atonement, is a spectacular neo-Gothic church that draws tourists and pilgrims alike with its serene atmosphere and magnificent architecture. It is the ideal location for visiting and taking pictures because of its elevation position, which provides sweeping views over Baguio City. Inside, guests can take in a magnificent altar, elaborate stained glass windows, and a calm setting perfect for prayer or introspection. The cathedral, which regularly hosts Masses and other religious events, is another significant historical and cultural site in Baguio. It offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of the city thanks to its cool mountain location.
Sumaguing Cave
(Tourist attraction)
For those who enjoy spelunking and natural wonders, Sumaguing Cave, which is situated in the town of Sagada, provides an exhilarating underground experience. Often referred to as the “Big Cave,” it is home to striking limestone formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and unusual rock formations that give off an unearthly vibe. The guided underground walk involves wading through cold, knee-deep waters, climbing over rocks, and navigating through tight spaces. Adventuresome tourists can enjoy breath-taking views of natural sculptures formed over millions of years and underground chambers. An additional cultural element to the exploration is the historical significance of the cave, since evidence of ancient burial places has been discovered within its depths. All things considered, Sumaguing Cave provides a thrilling, physically demanding experience that appeals to adventurers, history buffs, and environment lovers.
Hanging Coffins of Sagada
(Tourist attraction)
The Hanging Coffins of Sagada, where coffins are hanging on cliff walls, provide a singular window into the Igorot people’s ancient funeral customs. Hikers can reach the location via the picturesque Echo Valley, which is encircled by picturesque mountain scenery. The coffins, perched atop rocks, symbolize the idea that a departed person is more connected to their ancestors when they are nearer the sky. Guided tours offer insights into the region’s history and the cultural relevance of the practice. In addition to being a cultural landmark, the location offers a tranquil setting for introspection and admiring the splendor of Sagada’s natural surroundings.
Good Shepherd Convent
(Wholesale food store)
The Good Shepherd Convent in Baguio sells a range of locally produced goods, but its mouthwatering strawberry jams, ube jams, and other homemade preserves are their most well-known offerings. High-quality regional specialties like peanut brittle, sweet corn, and even Baguio’s well-known fresh fruit wines are available for purchase by tourists. A variety of handicrafts, including handwoven goods created by local women, are available in the convent’s gift shop, giving visitors a genuine sense of the local way of life. Since the organization is non-profit, the money raised from sales is used to fund the welfare and education of the kids in the Good Shepherd Sisters’ care. In addition to shopping, the convent’s tranquil ambiance and picturesque setting provide guests with a tranquil haven.
Tam-awan Village
(Art center)
The traditional art and way of life of the indigenous Cordillera people are on display in Baguio’s Tam-awan Village, providing a singular cultural experience. Explore traditional Kalinga homes and genuine Ifugao huts, which have been painstakingly conserved to provide a window into the past. With galleries showcasing everything from paintings to sculptures and crafts created by local artists, the village is also a bustling hub for the arts. Workshops teaching traditional weaving, pottery, and other indigenous arts are available to tourists. The town is a great place for nature enthusiasts because it also provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Live performances of traditional music and dance are available for anyone looking for a more in-depth cultural experience. This lively environment honors the Cordillera region’s legacy.
Lion’s Head
(Tourist attraction)
An iconic sight with a huge 40-foot sculpture of a lion’s head that is ideal for photos is Lion’s Head, which is situated along Kennon Road in Baguio. The location is ideal for tourists because it provides breathtaking sweeping views of the neighboring mountain range and verdant woodlands. In order to add a cultural touch to their trip, tourists can also encounter local sellers selling handcrafted products like crafts and wood carvings. The tranquil surroundings and chilly, pine-scented air provide travelers a welcome respite. It’s a well-liked destination for those traveling to Baguio because it provides a handy visual and cultural experience.
Session Road
(Route)
Baguio’s major thoroughfare, Session Road, has a diverse array of stores, eateries, and cafes to suit every preference. Local shops surround the street, offering Baguio’s well-known goods, including handcrafted crafts, peanut brittle, and fresh strawberries. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the route while admiring the city’s hills and the cool weather. Additionally, it offers a wide range of dining alternatives, including international and traditional Cordilleran cuisine. Session Road is a must-visit location for anybody traveling through Baguio because it is centrally located and offers convenient access to neighboring attractions.
Heritage Hill and Nature Park Garden (Old Diplomat Hotel)
(Historical place)
Baguio’s Heritage Hill and Nature Park Garden provides visitors with a tranquil haven that combines nature and history. The location offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of the city thanks to its well-kept trails and lush gardens. Additionally, it has historical markers that describe Baguio’s rich cultural history, particularly its part in American colonialism. Discover the tranquil environs of the park, take in expansive mountain vistas, and discover the significance of the region through educational exhibits. Heritage Hill & Nature Park is the perfect place for people who want to enjoy Baguio’s culture and calm because of its natural beauty and historical significance.
Mount Pulag
(Mountain peak)
A breathtaking natural experience, Mount Pulag is well-known for its “sea of clouds” that emerges in the early morning, producing an enthralling sight at daybreak. One of the tallest peaks in the Philippines, it draws hikers with its demanding but rewarding paths that wind through a variety of environments, including mossy forests, pine forests, and grasslands. Rare bird species like the Philippine eagle and the native Pulag flower are among the many unusual plant and animal species that call the mountain home. Visitors can enjoy magnificent night skies, ideal for astronomy, while camping on the mountain. Mount Pulag is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike because of its beautiful scenery and pleasant climate.
Bell Church
(Buddhist temple)
Bell Church in Baguio, with its distinctive fusion of Filipino and Chinese architectural forms, provides visitors with a peaceful haven. The temple’s quiet pagodas, koi ponds, and lovely gardens are well-known for fostering a tranquil environment for guests. Intricate Buddhist sculptures, god statues, and vibrant murals that showcase traditional Chinese art and culture are all available for tourists to view. One of the temple’s key features, the enormous bell tower, is thought to bring good fortune to anybody who visits. Bell Church’s picturesque hillside setting creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere, making it the ideal destination for anybody looking for both spiritual guidance and breathtaking scenery.
Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto
(Place of worship)
Located on a mountain with a picturesque perspective of the city, Baguio’s Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto provides a tranquil area for prayer and introspection. The Virgin Mary statue, a well-liked pilgrimage destination for many, is reached by ascending more than 200 steps. The grotto is encircled by rich vegetation, which heightens the peaceful ambiance. At the grotto, a lot of pilgrims and tourists burn candles as a part of their spiritual rituals and prayers. It is a must-visit location for anyone looking for tranquility, spirituality, and a sense of connection to nature because of its serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.
Philippine Military Academy (PMA)
(Military school)
Visitors may get a unique look at the military training and history of the Philippines at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) in Baguio. The academy’s magnificent campus, which is encircled by picturesque mountain views and verdant pine trees, is open to visitors. The Philippine Armed Forces’ history and evolution are explained via the museum housed within the PMA, which features military artifacts, uniforms, weapons, and historical exhibitions. Additionally, visitors can observe the cadets’ ceremonial parades and drills, which showcase their training, discipline, and abilities. The institution is a visually stunning location because of its exquisite architecture and immaculate gardens. In addition to providing a cultural experience, a tour to the PMA provides an opportunity to learn about the demanding training that develops the next generation of military commanders.
Valley of Colors
(Tourist attraction)
The stunningly stunning Valley of Colors in La Trinidad, Benguet, is renowned for its vividly painted homes that produce an eye-catching, multihued panorama. Strolling through the valley allows visitors to take in the distinctive and colorful scenery, which is ideal for taking pictures. With strawberry farms close by where visitors can pick fresh berries, the region also provides a window into local life. The vibrant residences enhance the area’s appeal and showcase the community’s inventive spirit. For those who want to experience art, nature, and culture all in one place, this is a must-see.
Pink Sisters and Chapel and Chapel
(Convent)
For those looking to ponder spiritually, the Pink Sisters Chapel in Quezon City, Philippines, provides a calm and beautiful setting. Visitors can observe the contemplative environment that the nuns who live in the convent maintain by attending the daily Mass. With its serene gardens around it and its delicate pink facade, the chapel is renowned for its exquisite construction. Also available to visitors is the “Vocation Prayer,” which the nuns are known for saying in order to be ordained into the religious life. Many travel there to take in the area’s distinct charm, which provides a respite from the bustle of the metropolis. The chapel also features a modest gift shop where guests can buy religious mementos and contribute to the Pink Sisters’ cause.
