Sagada – Magical and Hypnotic

Posted by Victor Dela Casa

Sunrise Viewing in Sagada

Nestled in the heart of Mountain Province lies the quaint town of Sagada. Magical and hypnotic, Sagada offers breathtaking scenery. Cloud covered mountains, lush pine jungles, beautiful rice terraces, dramatic caves and waterfalls are all but just a few of the spectacular vistas one will find here. Just about a half day’s bus ride from Manila and 5 – 6 hours north of Baguio City, Sagada is a refreshing change from the grueling and the mundane, and offers plenty for eco-tourists looking to do some hiking or those simply seeking some peace and quiet.

The roads leading to Sagada can be quite treacherous and challenging as it snakes narrowly through the mountainous terrain of the region. While this proves to be intimidating, the town, once reached, is in itself a wonderful reward. The place is very laid back and quiet. It has a certain serenity, complimented by the charm and warmth of its Kankanaey natives. Those used to the hustle and bustle of city living will definitely appreciate the slow pace of life, the crisp and clean air, and the magnificent scenery.

The day starts with a spectacular sunrise viewing at Kiltepan and the rocky valley below where foamy white clouds hugging and cascading atop massive pine-forested mountains greet the sun as it rises at dawn.

For the intrepid explorer, the interconnecting caves of Sumaguing is usually at the top of the list. Spelunking through steep descents and climbs will always lead one to majestic geological formations. Those that don’t mind the macabre, the Sumaguing Cave also connects to the sacred Lumiang Burial Cave where ancient coffins are stacked atop one after the other inside inconspicuously.

Although not as impressive or as intricate as Banawe’s Rice Terraces, Sagada’s own terraced rice paddy fields are quite an spectacle. Undulating rice swaying with the wind in a seemingly endless sea of green will hypnotize and calm you to wonderment.

A few hours hike from the town center and through the rice paddies, one will find Bomod-ok Falls which is perhaps one of the most popular attractions in Sagada. Countless visitors brave the long and daring trek to admire the 200-feet tall column of water as it splashes down on the cold pools below.

At night, one can admire the stars that litter the clear skies of Sagada. With no pollution nor city lights to hinder stargazing, Sagada offers spectacular and dazzling views of the night sky.

Sagada has so much to offer. From eco-tourism, recreational cave exploration, cultural trip and so much more, Sagada is a destination worth visiting in one’s lifetime. There is no pollution here, no crimes, no loud noises…only the calm and serenity one couldn’t find anywhere else. The Igorots and Kankanaey natives are friendly and very hospitable. Their native cuisine and wines are marvellous and worth another serving. Sagada’s warmth and charm can quickly grow on you making leaving this place very difficult.

About The Author

Victor Dela Casa spent over a decade working as business professional in Canada. Worked in IT, finance, marketing, international trade, public service, project management and the maritime industry. Degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines and Honours Diploma from Eastern College.