Sagada, located in the mountain province of the Philippines, is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that has been capturing the hearts of tourists for years. This little town, with its tranquil setting and laid-back vibe, offers a plethora of activities and attractions that will leave visitors in awe. From its stunning landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in Sagada.
So, without further ado, let’s explore some of the top things to do in Sagada and discover the beauty that this town has to offer.
EXPLORE THE LUMIANG CAVE AND SUMAGUING CAVE
One of the most popular activities in Sagada is exploring its caves, and the Lumiang Cave and Sumaguing Cave are two of the most spectacular ones. The Lumiang Cave is famous for its hanging coffins, a traditional burial practice of the Igorot people. As you enter the cave, you’ll be greeted by the sight of wooden coffins hanging from the cave walls. To explore the Lumiang Cave, you’ll need to navigate through narrow passageways, climb over boulders, and cross underground streams. It’s a challenging adventure that requires a moderate level of fitness and courage. But once you reach the end of the cave, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the underground river that flows through it.
The Sumaguing Cave, on the other hand, is known for its intricate rock formations. It’s also called the Big Cave, as it’s the largest cave in Sagada. The cave is filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique rock formations that have been shaped over thousands of years. Exploring the Sumaguing Cave is a thrilling experience that involves crawling through tight spaces, rappelling down steep cliffs, and wading through underground streams. The cave also has several chambers that are lit up with eerie green lights, adding to the mystical atmosphere.
Both the Lumiang Cave and Sumaguing Cave offer a unique and unforgettable adventure that is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for nature and the cultural heritage of Sagada. So, if you’re up for a challenge and want to explore the hidden wonders of Sagada, don’t miss out on these caves.
WITNESS THE HANGING COFFINS
Another unique feature of Sagada is its hanging coffins. The ancient Igorot people believed that by placing their dead in hanging coffins, they would be closer to their ancestral spirits. Today, these hanging coffins are a popular tourist attraction and a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage.
TREK TO THE BOMOD-OK FALLS
For those looking for a more demanding adventure, a trek to the Bomod-Ok Falls is a must. The trail to the falls takes visitors through rice terraces and lush forests, providing a burst of natural beauty at every turn.
As you make your way to the falls, you’ll be reminded of the beauty of nature – the way it can surprise you with unexpected vistas and stunning landscapes. And when you finally arrive at the falls, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view that will leave you speechless.
LEARN ABOUT THE TOWN’S HISTORY AT THE SAGADA MUSEUM
For a deeper understanding of Sagada’s rich cultural heritage, a visit to the Sagada Museum is a must. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that showcase the town’s history and culture. You can explore the exhibits, the way it weaves together different cultures, traditions, and influences to create a unique tapestry. And as you leave the museum, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the town and its people.
The Ganduyan Museum in Sagada is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the rich cultural heritage of the Kankana-ey and Bontoc peoples of the Cordillera region. This privately-owned museum houses a collection of traditional artifacts, as well as contemporary art pieces, showcasing the artistic talent of the local community.
Visitors to the Ganduyan Museum can expect to see a wide range of artifacts, including traditional clothing, weapons, and tools used by the indigenous peoples of the region. The museum also houses a collection of antique photographs, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who have lived in the area for centuries.
One of the highlights of the Ganduyan Museum is its collection of traditional woven textiles. The intricate patterns and designs of the textiles on display are a testament to the skill of the weavers, who have been producing beautiful fabrics using traditional techniques for generations. Visitors can learn more about the weaving process and even purchase some of these handmade textiles to take home as a souvenir.s
In addition to its traditional artifacts, the Ganduyan Museum also showcases contemporary art pieces created by local artists. The museum’s galleries feature a wide range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and mixed media. These pieces offer visitors a glimpse into the vibrant artistic community that exists in Sagada and the surrounding areas.
ENJOY THE SUNRISE AT KILTEPAN VIEWPOINT
No visit to Sagada would be complete without watching the sunrise at Kiltepan Viewpoint. This popular tourist spot offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it the perfect place to witness the beauty of nature.
As the sun rises over the mountains, casting a warm glow over the landscape, you’ll be reminded of the beauty of the world we live in. And as you take in the stunning view, you’ll feel a sense of awe and wonder that will stay with you long after you leave Sagada.
GO CAVING AT CAVE CONNECTION
For those who want to experience even more of Sagada’s impressive cave systems, a visit to Cave Connection is a must. This tour takes visitors through both the Lumiang Cave and the Sumaguing Cave, allowing them to experience the intricate beauty of both caves in one go. It’s a challenging tour, but one that’s sure to leave visitors in awe.
EXPERIENCE THE SAGADA WEAVING TRADITIONS
Sagada is known for its weaving traditions, and visitors can witness these traditions firsthand by visiting the Sagada Weaving Cooperative. Here, visitors can watch weavers create intricate designs using traditional looms and techniques, and even purchase some of their own handwoven items to take home.
TRY THE LOCAL CUISINE
You can enjoy various traditional dishes along with tea or local coffee, as well as plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
GO HIKING AT MOUNT AMPACAO
For those who love hiking, a trek up Mount Ampacao is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Sagada. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and visitors can enjoy a picnic at the summit while taking in the view.