KALINGA TRAVEL GUIDE: Things to do, The right way to Get There + More

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Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Kalinga Province

Kalinga, a province within the Cordillera Administrative Region of the Philippines, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its wealthy culture and breathtaking scenery, Kalinga has turn out to be a preferred destination for travelers in search of an off-the-beaten-path experience. The province is home to varied indigenous communities, each with its own unique customs and traditions which have been passed down for generations.

World Record Breaking Banga Dance in Tabuk, Kalinga photo via PIA.gov.ph
World Record Breaking Banga Dance in Tabuk, Kalinga photo via PIA.gov.ph

One in all the essential draws of Kalinga is its natural wonders. The province boasts stunning rice terraces, waterfalls, and rivers, all surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can take a dip within the refreshing waters of Binalasan Falls or hike to the highest of Mt. Kupapey for a panoramic view of the encompassing landscape. Kalinga can be home to the Chico River, which is a preferred spot for white water rafting and kayaking.

Apart from its natural beauty, Kalinga can be known for its traditional tattoo artistry. The province is home to the Kalinga people, who’ve been practicing the art of tattooing for hundreds of years. The tattoos, that are done using a conventional hand-tapping method, usually are not only a type of art but additionally an emblem of the wearer’s identity and standing throughout the community. Visitors can learn more about this ancient practice by visiting the village of Buscalan, where they’ll meet the legendary tattoo artist Whang-Od and get inked themselves.

Scenic Views in Tabuk
Scenic Views in Tabuk

Exploring Kalinga

Kalinga province is an ideal destination for travelers in search of adventure and nature. Kalinga offers a big selection of activities that may satisfy every traveler’s thirst for exploration.

Among the finest ways to explore Kalinga is thru a road trip. The province is understood for its scenic routes, which provide breathtaking views of the mountains, rivers, and rice terraces. Travelers can rent a automotive or a motorbike and drive across the province at their very own pace.

Tribal Tattoo Traditions of Kalinga by Lee via Wikimedia cc
Tribal Tattoo Traditions of Kalinga by Lee via Wikimedia cc

Kalinga can be home to several indigenous communities, which have preserved their traditions and culture for hundreds of years. Travelers can immerse themselves within the local culture by visiting the villages and interacting with the locals. They’ll witness traditional dances, music, and rituals, and even get a probability to try the local cuisine.

Nature lovers may also find Kalinga to be a paradise. The province boasts several natural attractions, including waterfalls, rivers, and hot springs. Among the popular tourist spots include Binalasan Falls, Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park, and Lubo Rice Terraces. Travelers can go trekking, swimming, or just benefit from the natural fantastic thing about the environment.

Historical Significance

Kalinga is a province known for its wealthy culture and history, particularly the Kalinga people, who’re one among the indigenous groups within the region. The Kalinga people have an extended and interesting history, dating back greater than 2,000 years.

Kalinga Women Banga
Kalinga Women Banga
Old Photograph of Kalinga People
Old Photograph of Kalinga People

One of the famous features of Kalinga culture is the hand-tapped tattoo, also often called batok. This traditional tattooing method has been passed down through generations of Kalinga people and continues to be practiced today. Essentially the most famous practitioner of this art form is Apo Whang-Od, who has gained international recognition for her skills and has turn out to be a cultural icon.

Today, Kalinga is a preferred destination for travelers who’re concerned about history and culture. Visitors can learn in regards to the Kalinga people and their traditions, visit the famous hand-tapped tattoo artists, and explore the gorgeous Cordillera Mountains. Kalinga’s historical significance and wealthy cultural heritage make it an enchanting destination for anyone who desires to learn more in regards to the Philippines and its people.

Traveling to Kalinga

Listed below are some suggestions for traveling to Kalinga.

Attending to Kalinga

By Land

Essentially the most common option to get to Kalinga is by land travel. From Manila, there are several bus corporations that provide trips to Tabuk City, the capital of Kalinga. The travel time is around 12 hours, and the fare ranges from Php 700 to Php 1,000. Another choice is to take a bus to Baguio City after which transfer to a different bus going to Tabuk City.

Manila to Tabuk City

  • Victory Liner – Kamias 7:00 PM / 8:30 PM / (2 Trips Day by day) Sampaloc Terminal – 7:00 PM / 9:45 PM (3 Trips Day by day)
  • Dangwa Bus – Morning and Afternoon (2 Trips Day by day)
  • ES Transport – AM and PM (2 Trips Day by day)

Baguio City to Tabuk City

  • Dangwa Bus – AM and PM (2 Trips Day by day)
  • GL/Lizardo Trans – AM and PM (2 Trips Day by day)
  • Northlandia Vans

Tuguegarao City to Tabuk City

6:00 AM to five:00 PM Day by day Trips
NORTHLANDIA Vans
KALTRANSDECO Vans

By Air

For many who prefer to travel by air, the closest airport to Kalinga is the Tuguegarao Airport in Cagayan Province. From the airport, you possibly can take a bus or van to Tabuk City. Another choice is to fly to the Cauayan Airport in Isabela Province, around 2 hours away from Tabuk City.

  • Cebu Pacific (Day by day Morning and Afternoon Flight)
  • Philippine Airlines (Clark-Tuguegarao-Clark – 4x every week)

Getting Around Kalinga

When you arrive in Kalinga, the most effective option to get around is by hiring a personal vehicle or taking a tricycle. There are also jeepneys and buses that travel between the various towns and municipalities, but they may be quite crowded and uncomfortable.

Itinerary Suggestions

Kalinga has rather a lot to supply, and it could actually be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. Listed below are some suggestions:

  • Visit the famous Buscalan Village in Tinglayan, where you possibly can see the normal tattoo art of the Kalinga people and experience their unique lifestyle.
  • Explore the stunning landscapes of Tinglayan, including the Banaue Rice Terraces, the Chico River, and the Sleeping Beauty Mountain.
  • Visit the Tabuk Museum to learn more in regards to the history and culture of Kalinga.
  • Take a dip in the recent springs of Balbalan or the cold waters of the Kalinga River.
  • Attend the Kalinga Bodong Festival, which is held every February and celebrates the peace pact tradition of the Kalinga people.

Tourist Attractions

Listed below are a few of the top tourist attractions in Kalinga that visitors shouldn’t miss.

Lubo Rice Terraces photo via Cordillera Vines
Lubo Rice Terraces photo via Cordillera Vines

Lubo Rice Terraces

Lubo Rice Terraces are situated in Tanudan, Kalinga Province. Lubo Rice Terraces is understood for its fresh vegetables and awesome rice, in addition to its culture and low. Additionally it is a preferred tourist attraction, offering magnificent views of the valley and the encompassing mountains.

Mangali Rice Terraces

Mangali Rice Terraces are situated in Tabuk. Mangali farmers cultivate traditional rice varieties often called “Unoy.” The Mangali Rice Terraces, like other rice terraces within the Cordilleras, are also a preferred tourist destination, offering stunning views of the encompassing mountains and valleys.

Kalinga Tattoo Art by Lee via Wikipedia cc
Kalinga Tattoo Art by Lee via Wikipedia cc

Buscalan Village

Buscalan Village is situated in Tinglayan, Kalinga. It is understood for being the house of the last Kalinga tattoo artist, Apo Whang-Od, who practices the normal art of batok or tattooing. Buscalan Village can be the beating heart of the Butbut people, an indigenous group with a wealthy culture and history. Tourists visit the village to experience the normal lifestyle of the Butbut people, in addition to to get a conventional tattoo from Apo Whang-Od. The village is accessible by a 2-3 hour hike from the town center of Tinglayan.

Palang-ah Falls

Palang-ah Falls, also spelled as Palan-ah Falls, is situated in Tulgao West, Tinglayan, Kalinga. It’s probably the greatest attractions in Kalinga Province. The falls are known for his or her natural beauty and are surrounded by lush vegetation. Visitors may also take a dip in the recent springs near the falls to loosen up and unwind. The world is accessible by a 1-hour hike from the village of Tulgao, which may be reached by a jeepney ride from Tinglayan.

Chico River white water rafting.
Chico River white water rafting.

Chico River white water rafting.

Chico River white water rafting is a preferred adventure activity in Kalinga Province, Philippines. In response to Chico River Quest, the river is classed as a Grade III-IV river, which suggests it has rapids which can be suitable for skilled rafters.

The river is understood for its scenic views of the encompassing mountains and rock formations. The perfect time to go rafting on the Chico River is throughout the rainy season, from July to November, when the water level is high.

Mount Binuluan

Mount Binuluan is a mountain situated in Kalinga Province. The elevation of Mount Binuluan is 7641 feet or 2328 meters. It’s one among the best peaks within the Cordillera Central mountain range. The mountain is surrounded by the municipalities of Lubuagan, Pasil, and Tinglayan and is understood for its scenic views of the encompassing valleys and the Cordillera mountain range. Mount Binuluan can be a preferred climbing destination, with several trails resulting in the summit. The problem level of the mountain is classed as mild to moderate, depending on the trail chosen.

Sulfur Mountain at Batong Buhay Pasil by Gigi Gacuya
Sulfur Mountain at Batong Buhay Pasil by Gigi Gacuya via Tabuk Journal

Sulfur Hills in Pasil

Sulfur Hills, also often called Mt. Amfertungan or Ambalatungan, is situated in Pasil, Kalinga Province. It’s listed as an inactive volcano by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

The hill accommodates a steep-walled crater with hot springs and sulfur-encrusted fumarolic vents that produce loud noises. Its yellow, sulfuric soil and rocks add to the unique fantastic thing about the world. Sulfur Hills is a preferred tourist destination, offering scenic views of the encompassing valleys and mountains, in addition to a novel natural experience with the recent springs and sulfur vents.

Mount Mating-oy 

Mount Mating-oy, also often called Sleeping Beauty Mountain, is situated in Tinglayan, Kalinga Province. The elevation of Mount Mating-oy is 1872 meters or 6142 feet. It is called Sleeping Beauty Mountain because its shape resembles a girl lying on her back.

Mount Mating-oy is a preferred climbing destination, offering scenic views of the encompassing mountains and valleys. The mountain can be known for its wealthy wildlife, including several species of birds and butterflies. The perfect time to hike Mount Mating-oy is throughout the dry season, from December to May.

Kalinga Capitol Tourism Complex

Kalinga Capitol Tourism Complex is situated in Tabuk City, Kalinga Province, Philippines. It’s a one-stop destination for learning in regards to the history, culture, and tourism of Kalinga Province.

Tabuk View Deck
Tabuk View Deck

The complex is home to several attractions, including the Kalinga Museum, which showcases the wealthy cultural heritage of the province, and the Tabuk View Deck, which offers panoramic views of the encompassing mountains and valleys. The complex also has a park, a playground, and a number of other food stalls, making it a preferred destination for families and tourists.

Naneng Heritage Village

Naneng Heritage Village is situated in Tabuk City, Kalinga Province, Philippines. It’s the oldest settlement and the old center of Tabuk and is understood for its wealthy cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle. The village is home to several traditional Kalinga houses made from wood and bamboo, that are still inhabited by the locals.

Kalinga Weaving
Kalinga Weaving

Visitors can experience the normal lifestyle of the Kalinga people, including their farming practices, weaving, and other cultural practices. The village can be known for its women weavers who produce intricate and colourful textiles using traditional methods. Naneng Heritage Village is a preferred tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the wealthy cultural heritage of Kalinga Province.

Local Cuisine

Kalinga is understood for its traditional and indigenous cuisine, which is a mirrored image of its culture and history. The region boasts a novel mix of flavors and ingredients which can be sourced from local harvests and wild foraging.

One in all the signature dishes of Kalinga is Pinikpikan, which is ready using time-honored methods. The dish involves beating a live chicken with a keep on with toughen its meat and enhance its flavor. It’s then roasted and served with rice and vegetables. While the tactic of preparation could appear controversial to some, it’s a very important a part of Kalinga’s culinary heritage.

Inandilaan
Inandilaan

One other popular dish in Kalinga is Inandilaan, which is comprised of pork that’s cooked in its own fat. The dish is often served during special occasions and celebrations, resembling weddings and fiestas.

Kini-ing Smoked Pork
Kini-ing Smoked Pork

Along with these dishes, Kalinga also has quite a lot of delicacies and snacks, resembling Kiniing, which is a smoked meat that is comparable to jerky, and Tapa, which is a dried meat that is often served with garlic rice and egg.

Overall, Kalinga’s cuisine is a testament to the region’s wealthy cultural heritage and the importance of using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors to the region should be sure that to try a few of the local dishes and delicacies to totally experience Kalinga’s unique flavors.

Accommodation Options

Kalinga Province offers quite a lot of accommodation options for visitors, starting from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. It is necessary to notice that almost all of the accommodations are situated within the capital town of Tabuk, where many of the province’s attractions are easily accessible.

Visitors in search of a budget-friendly option can pick from quite a lot of hostels and guesthouses. These accommodations offer basic amenities resembling shared bathrooms and dormitory-style rooms. Some popular options include the Kalinga Inn and Backpackers and the Kalinga Native Guesthouse.

For those in search of a more comfortable stay, several mid-range hotels can be found in Tabuk. These hotels offer amenities resembling private bathrooms, air-con, and Wi-Fi.

Luxury accommodations are also available for visitors who wish to bask in comfort and magnificence. These hotels offer amenities resembling swimming pools, spas, and positive dining restaurants. The most well-liked luxury hotels in Kalinga Province include the Grand Zion Garden Resort and the Davidson Hotel.

It is necessary to notice that in peak travel season, accommodations in Kalinga Province can replenish quickly. It’s advisable to book accommodations upfront to make sure availability and to get the most effective rates. Visitors can use online booking platforms resembling Agoda.com and Booking to search out and book accommodations in Kalinga Province.

Travel Suggestions

Traveling to Kalinga may be an exciting and memorable experience, however it’s essential to maintain just a few things in mind to make sure a smooth trip. Listed below are some travel suggestions to think about before embarking in your journey:

Hire a Local Guide

Kalinga is a distant province with many hidden gems that only locals learn about. Hiring an area guide can assist you discover off-the-beaten-path destinations and supply insight into the region’s wealthy culture and history. An area guide may also help with language barriers and be sure that you might have a secure and enjoyable experience.

Bring Money

While some establishments in Kalinga accept bank cards, it’s at all times idea to bring money with you. Many local shops and restaurants only accept money, and there are limited ATMs in the world. It’s also idea to have small bills readily available for purchases like transportation and souvenirs.

Stick with a Budget

Kalinga offers a spread of activities and accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. It’s essential to set a budget before your trip and keep on with it to avoid overspending. Researching accommodation and activity options ahead of time can assist you make informed decisions and stay inside your budget.

Capturing Kalinga

Kalinga is a province within the northern a part of the Philippines that is understood for its wealthy cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Travelers who visit Kalinga are sometimes captivated by the province’s stunning landscapes, unique traditions, and warm hospitality.

Among the finest ways to capture the essence of Kalinga is thru photography. With its towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and verdant rice terraces, Kalinga offers countless opportunities for capturing stunning images. Visitors can take photos of the province’s natural wonders, in addition to its vibrant festivals, traditional crafts, and colourful markets.

One of the iconic images of Kalinga is the normal tattoos of the Butbut people. These intricate designs, that are created using a conventional hand-tapping method, are an emblem of the tribe’s identity and cultural heritage. Visitors can capture these tattoos in photos, in addition to find out about their meaning and significance.

Along with photography, visitors may also capture the essence of Kalinga through other art forms, resembling painting, drawing, and writing. The province’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture have inspired countless artists and writers through the years, and proceed to accomplish that today.

Whether through photography, painting, or writing, capturing Kalinga is a rewarding and enriching experience that permits visitors to attach with the province’s unique culture and natural beauty.

Contact Info

Lorraine A. Ngao-i
Supervising Tourism Operations Officer
Mobile: 0949-128-3547
Email: tourism_kalinga@yahoo.com
Facebook Page: Kalinga Tourism, Philippines

Christalyne M. Balicao
Tourism Operations Officer 1
Mobile: 0917-159-9904
Email: tourism_kalinga@yahoo.com

Joyce B. Calpito
Tourism Staff
Mobile: 0927-418-1220
Email: tourism_kalinga@yahoo.com
Facebook Page: Province of Kalinga

Kalinga Travel Guide
Kalinga Travel Guide

Steadily Asked Questions

What are some popular tourist spots in Balbalan, Kalinga?

Balbalan is a municipality within the province of Kalinga that is understood for its scenic spots. One of the popular tourist spots in Balbalan is the Pasil River, which is understood for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. One other must-visit destination in Balbalan is the Balbalasang National Park, which is home to varied wildlife and offers breathtaking views of the mountains.

What are the must-visit tourist spots in Tanudan?

Tanudan is a town in Kalinga that is understood for its wealthy culture and natural wonders. One in all the must-visit tourist spots in Tanudan is the Lubuagan Kalinga Museum, which showcases the town’s history and culture. One other popular destination in Tanudan is the Lubuagan Rice Terraces, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is understood for its stunning views.

What are the wonders of Tabuk City, Kalinga?

Tabuk City is the capital of Kalinga and is understood for its natural wonders. One in all the wonders of Tabuk City is the Chico River, which is a preferred destination for white-water rafting. One other must-visit destination in Tabuk City is the Mabilong Weavers Village, which is understood for its traditional weaving techniques.

What makes Binasalan Falls in Kalinga a must-see destination?

Binasalan Falls is a surprising waterfall in Kalinga that is understood for its crystal-clear waters and plush greenery. It’s a preferred destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can swim within the cool waters of the falls or hike in the encompassing forest.

Why is Sleeping Beauty mountain in Kalinga price visiting?

Sleeping Beauty mountain is a preferred destination in Kalinga that is understood for its unique shape. It known as Sleeping Beauty mountain since it resembles a girl sleeping on her back. Visitors can hike to the summit of the mountain and luxuriate in breathtaking views of the encompassing landscape.

What are some famous tourist spots in Mountain Province near Kalinga?

Mountain Province is a neighboring province of Kalinga that is understood for its stunning natural beauty. One of the famous tourist spots in Mountain Province is the Banaue Rice Terraces, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is understood for its stunning views. One other must-visit destination in Mountain Province is the Sagada Cave Connection, which is a preferred destination for spelunking and adventure.

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