A Guide to Visiting Asik-Asik Falls in Alamada, North Cotabato
Asik-Asik Falls is a surprising waterfall in Sitio Dulao of Barangay Upper Dado in Alamada, North Cotabato. Nestled within the lower slope of Mount Ragang, also referred to as Mount Piapayungan or Blue Mountain, Asik-Asik Falls is an lively stratovolcano within the boundary of Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato. The falls is a natural wonder that has turn out to be a well-liked destination for tourists and locals alike.
Asik-asik is a Hiligaynon term that literally translates to “to sprinkle.” And indeed, Asik-Asik Waterfalls in Alamada, Northern Cotabato, has been sprinkling its magical waters well enough to be referred to as “Northern Cotabato’s Pride.”
Like most natural formations within the Philippines, Asik-Asik waterfalls is believed to be the home of local enchanted beings… but this is not any longer a myth. While you get there, you’ll be literally enchanted!
Asik-Asik is just like the setting of a fictional movie (picture the key facility hidden within the jungle in Disney’s The Incredibles. That’s the closest comparison). Its cliffs are covered with thick, green vegetation, and its magical ‘curtain-like’ falls seem like they’re falling from the skies. Like running tap water, the water is cold but refreshing and crystal clear. The place can be very secluded: it’s in the course of a forest!
Interesting Fact
Asik-Asik waterfalls were discovered in 2012. In fact, being a really latest attraction, attending to Asik-Asik waterfalls won’t be too easy like most destinations. Attending to Alamada won’t be an issue (the shortest public road route is via a jeepney from Midsayap.
This might take only 45 minutes at most), but attending to Asik-Asik may be. As mentioned earlier, it’s secluded, and total travel/walking time may reach as much as an hour. But all of this might be value it when you reach the waterfalls.
Location of Asik-Asik Falls
Asik-Asik Falls, also referred to as Dulao Falls, is a natural wonder situated within the distant barangay of Upper Dado in Alamada, North Cotabato, on the island of Mindanao within the Philippines. The falls is situated on the lower slope of Mount Ragang, also referred to as Mount Piapayungan or Blue Mountain, an lively strato-volcano that sits on the boundary of Lanao del Sur and North Cotabato.
To achieve the falls, visitors must first travel to Alamada, which is roughly 197 kilometers away from Davao City and will be reached by bus or private vehicle. From Alamada, visitors must then travel to Sitio Dulao, where the falls is situated. The journey to the falls from the town proper takes roughly an hour and a half and involves a bumpy ride on a habal-habal or motorcycle.
The falls itself is hidden in a lush forest, and visitors must trek for about half-hour to succeed in it. The trek involves crossing a river and navigating through rocky terrain, so visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and convey drinking water.
Despite its distant location, Asik-Asik Falls has turn out to be a well-liked tourist destination in recent times, attracting each local and foreign visitors. Its unique and unspoiled beauty has earned it the nickname “the waterfall of mystery.”
Getting There
Attending to Asik-Asik Falls is just not easy, nevertheless it is definitely worth the effort.
The closest airport is Cotabato City Airport. From there, travelers can take a van or a bus to Midsayap in North Cotabato. Travel time is roughly one and a half hours, and the fare is around P60.
Alternatively, travelers can fly to Davao City after which take a bus or a van to Midsayap. Depending on the traffic, the bus or van ride takes around three to 4 hours. The preferred bus terminal in Davao City is the Ecoland Bus Terminal, accessible via taxi or jeepney. There are also several malls in Davao City, resembling G-Mall and SM Davao, where travelers can take a van or a bus to Midsayap.
From Midsayap, travelers can take a jeepney or a tricycle to Barangay Upper Dado. The jeepney ride takes around 45 minutes, and the tricycle ride takes around half-hour. Once in Barangay Upper Dado, travelers can hire a habal-habal or a bike driver to take them to the jump-off point of Asik-Asik Falls. The motorcycle ride takes around half-hour, and the fare is around P100 per person.
It will be significant to notice that the road to Asik-Asik Falls is just not yet fully developed, and travelers may encounter rough and bumpy roads. Additionally it is advisable to bring enough money, as there aren’t any ATMs or banks in Barangay Upper Dado.
The Journey
The journey to Asik-Asik Falls is an adventure in itself. Travelers can take a habal-habal (motorcycle) or tricycle ride from the town of Alamada to the jump-off point, about half-hour away. The road resulting in the falls is unpaved and bumpy, so travelers must be prepared for a rough ride.
Once on the jump-off point, travelers must trek for about half-hour to succeed in the falls. The trail is well-maintained and comparatively easy, with a couple of steep sections. Along the way in which, travelers can be treated to stunning views of the encircling mountains and luxurious vegetation.
The Scenery
Asik-Asik Falls is a natural wonder that is actually breathtaking to behold. The waterfall is situated in a ravine surrounded by lush vegetation, ferns, and moss. The scenery is best enjoyed early within the morning when the sun continues to be low within the sky, and the sunshine filters through the trees, making a magical atmosphere.
The waterfall itself is a sight to behold, with water cascading down a 60-meter-high rock wall, making a curtain of water that spans 140 meters wide. The water flows right into a rocky pool at the bottom of the falls, and visitors can take a refreshing swim within the cool water.
The vegetation surrounding the falls is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of ferns and mosses covering the rocks and trees. The Blue Mountain, also referred to as Mount Piapayungan, provides a surprising backdrop to the falls, adding to the scenic view.
One in all the unique features of Asik-Asik Falls is that the water flows from an underground river, which adds to the mystery and allure of the falls. The water is crystal clear and funky, making it perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day.
The scenery at Asik-Asik Falls is actually awe-inspiring, and it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Facilities and Amenities
Asik-Asik Falls is a natural attraction that gives minimal facilities and amenities to visitors. Nonetheless, a couple of basic infrastructures have been put in place to enhance visitors’ experience.
Visitors can access the falls through a concrete bridge that results in a set of stairsteps that provide access to the viewing area. The stairsteps are well-maintained and secure, making it protected for visitors to climb up and down.
There may be a PHP 50 entrance fee to access the falls; visitors can park their vehicles totally free within the designated parking area. Nonetheless, visitors are advised to be cautious of their belongings and never leave valuables of their cars.
Asik-Asik Falls is situated in a distant area but there are few stores or food stalls nearby. Visitors are advised to bring their very own food and drinks. One in all the restaurants on the jump-off point has restrooms or changing rooms available for a fee.
Visitors to Asik-Asik Falls must be prepared for a country and natural experience and shouldn’t expect any luxurious facilities or amenities. Nonetheless, the falls’ natural beauty and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Travel Suggestions and Recommendations
Asik-Asik Falls is a well-liked tourist destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. In the event you plan to go to this stunning waterfall, listed below are some travel suggestions and suggestions to provide help to take advantage of your trip.
Entrance Fees and other expenses
Asik-Asik Falls is situated in North Cotabato, Mindanao. To get there, you’ll must take a plane to Cotabato City after which ride a van or bus to Midsayap. From Midsayap, you possibly can hire a habal-habal or motorcycle driver to take you to the falls. The whole cost of transportation can range from P1,500 to P2,000 depending in your mode of transportation and bargaining skills.
Entrance Fees:
- From Alamada – 40.00
- From North Cotabato – 50.00
- From Other Provinces -70.00
The parking fee is Php 25 per vehicle.
Guide
It is very really helpful to rent an area guide to take you to Asik-Asik Falls. The trail to the falls is just not well-marked, and the guide can provide help to navigate through the rocky terrain safely. The guide may also give you interesting facts and stories concerning the falls, making your trip more insightful and enjoyable. The usual rate for a guide is around P500.
Early Morning
If you desire to avoid the group and luxuriate in the falls in peace, it’s best to go to Asik-Asik Falls early within the morning. The falls open at 6:00 AM, and the primary rays of the sun make the waterfall much more magical. You may also reap the benefits of the cooler temperature and capture stunning photos without the group within the background.
Swimming
Swimming within the crystal-clear waters of Asik-Asik Falls is a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. Nonetheless, it will be important to take extra precautions and follow safety guidelines to avoid accidents and injuries. The water will be deep in some areas, and the rocks will be slippery, so it’s best to wear appropriate footwear and swim with caution.
Incessantly Asked Questions
What’s the doorway fee for Asik-Asik Falls?
The doorway fee for Asik-Asik Falls is P50.00.
Where is the placement of Asik-Asik Falls?
Asik-Asik Falls is situated in Sitio Dulao, Barangay Upper Dado, Alamada, North Cotabato, Philippines.
What province is Asik-Asik Falls situated in?
Asik-Asik Falls is situated within the province of North Cotabato within the Philippines.
How do you get to Asik-Asik Falls?
To get to Asik-Asik Falls, visitors can take a flight to Cotabato City or Davao City, then take a bus or van to Midsayap. From Midsayap, visitors can take a van or jeep to Alamada town proper, after which charter a habal-habal or motorcycle to the falls. Alternatively, visitors may also hire a personal vehicle or join a tour group.
What’s the history of Asik-Asik Falls?
Asik-Asik Falls was discovered in 2010 by an area farmer named Jun Santiago. The falls gained popularity amongst locals and tourists as a result of its unique and picturesque curtain-like appearance, in addition to its crystal-clear waters.
What number of steps are there to succeed in Asik-Asik Falls?
The variety of steps to succeed in Asik-Asik Falls varies depending on the source. Some sources mention 1,500 steps (source: Youtube), while others mention 1,230 total estimated steps or 835 concrete + steel stairsteps and 395 steps from pavilion to concrete path/stairs.
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