WTC Sagada

In the midst of the Cordillera Mountains in Northwestern Philippines lies an enchanting town called Sagada of the Mountain Province, one of the six (6) provinces of the Cordilleras. A popular destination for local and foreign tourists, Sagada is known for its pleasant climate. The coolest months in this area is from December to February when temperature can drop to 40 Centigrade (40F). However, mountain temperature is usually moderate, offering warm days for hiking and cool nights for sleeping.

In Sagada, one would admire its cool fresh air, pine sceneries, rocky terrain, waterfalls, centuries-old burial caves, hanging coffins, rice terraces, and its local weaving industry. Although agriculture is the main source of income in Sagada, it also earns significantly from its tourism industry.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Sumaguing Cave - The one most popular to visitors, is a 40 minute walk from Sagada on the Suyo Road. Unusual limestone formations are found in the cave.

Crystal Cave - Situated southwest of Sumaguing Cave and around 2 kms. from the poblacion, this cave is rich with stalactites and stalagmites. Stalactite is an icicle-shaped deposit of carbonate of lime hanging from the roof of a cave while stalagmite is a cone- shape deposit of carbonate of lime built up on the floor of a cave by drip, often from a stalactite above.

Bokong Waterfalls - This small waterfall and natural swimming pool is situated in the midst of rice terraces and provides a refreshing air for weary travelers. It is only a 15-minute walk from the town center along rice terraces.

Lumiang Cave - A 30-minute walk from Sagada on the way to the Big Cave, this burial cave, where many old and a few newer coffins are stacked, is well worth a visit. The coffins can be viewed from the large entrance so there is no need to go inside.

Matangkig Cave - A smaller and more accessible burial cave. It is the second level of the Latang Underground River. The inner chamber of the cave contains the old traditional types of coffins from trunks of pine trees. It is only around 50 meters away from the main road of Nangongogan.

Canduyan Museum - Located right at the center of the town, this small private museum has a display of the best of the Cordillera crafts, both new and antique. Display and collection includes beautiful baskets, tapestry, metal craft, etc.

Masterferrer's Photographs - Display of old Masferre prints are worth viewing and Masferre T-shirts are for sale along with other local books, cards, etc.

HOW TO GET THERE

Sagada is located 275-km north of Manila . Visitors coming from Manila by transport have the choice of traveling either via Banaue (Ifugao Province) or Baguio City (Benguet Province) as there are no public vehicles going direct to Sagada. There are air conditioned buses traveling from Manila direct to Banaue. A bus that leaves Manila at 10:00 p.m. will make it to Banaue at 7:00 a.m. the following day. From Banaue, a jeepney ride will take the guest to Bontoc in about three (3) hours. Non-air conditioned buses and jeepneys ply the route Bontoc-Sagada in about an hour. Sagada is approximately 6 hours of descending travel to Baguio over the narrow mountain tracks traversing the Cordilleras against a background of terraces planted to rice and vegetables.