✧ Series Note – Banaue–Sagada–Benguet 2015 ✧
Some journeys change your map; others change your soul.
This three-day passage through the highlands left footprints not just on trails but on memory.
📅 Travel Dates: May 01-03, 2015
After a physically demanding first day of spelunking, I was surprised we managed to rise at 5 AM, groggy but determined. Day 2 in Sagada promised a different kind of adventure—one that stirred the soul more than the muscles. From chasing the sunrise at Mt. Kiltepan to trekking toward ancient coffins, this day unfolded like a quiet revelation.
🌄 Mt. Kiltepan Sunrise
We reached Mt. Kiltepan before dawn, hoping to catch the famed sea of clouds. The site, popularized by the film That Thing Called Tadhana, was already packed with eager visitors. Parking was impossible, so we walked the rocky terrain, guided only by anticipation.
And then—it happened. The clouds rolled like waves beneath us, and the sun began to scatter its golden rays. I was speechless. It was one of those rare moments where nature silences everything else. Instagram-worthy? Absolutely. But more than that, it was soul-worthy.
🍊 Breakfast at the Orange Farm
We headed to the Orange Farm for breakfast, where the food was hearty and the ambiance surprisingly upscale. I ordered Double Trouble: red rice, two fried eggs, and two slices of ham—a comforting Pinoy plate.
Though it was off-season and we didn’t spot any oranges, the warmth of the staff and the cozy vibe made up for it. Yes, food in Sagada can be pricey, but considering the remoteness of the town, it’s understandable. Every bite felt earned after the morning’s climb.
💦 Trek to Bomod-ok Falls
The trek to Bomod-ok Falls took about two hours, depending on the crowd and your pace. Our guides, Holyn and Ailyn, led us through narrow, paved trails flanked by lush rice terraces. The walk was tiring but scenic. At the falls, some braved the cold waters for a refreshing dip—a perfect summer escape.
⛪ Episcopal Church of St. Mary the Virgin
After lunch at the public market, we explored Sagada on foot. Our first stop was the Episcopal Church, built in 1900. Though it was closed, its stone façade and quiet surroundings hinted at its historical significance. It stands near other landmarks like Echo Valley and the Hanging Coffins.
🪦 Echo Valley & Hanging Coffins
Sagada’s Hanging Coffins are both eerie and fascinating. Seeing them in person made me reflect on how burial traditions vary across cultures. The trek from the church took about 30 minutes, passing through pine-filled Echo Valley and the Sagada Cemetery. Local guides are required for this trail, and rightly so—it’s sacred ground. Respect is key.
🏺 Ganduyan Museum
Located in the town center, Ganduyan Museum is a treasure trove of Cordillera heritage. Though photography was prohibited and shoes had to be removed, the short lecture we received was rich in insight. From ancient jars to traditional costumes, the museum offered a glimpse into Sagada’s soul.
🫖 Sagada Pottery & Lake Danum
Instead of visiting Sagada Weaving, we opted for Sagada Pottery, where we saw beautiful handmade pieces and a live demonstration. Later, we headed to Lake Danum for sunset viewing. Sadly, the drizzle kept the sun hidden, but the lake’s serenity made up for it. It reminded me of Lake Placid—quiet, mysterious, and cinematic.
🛍️ Evening Reflections
We returned to town for dinner and a final round of souvenir shopping. Looking back, our two-day Sagada adventure was packed with adrenaline, discovery, and quiet moments of awe. I had seen these places in blogs and photos before—but experiencing them firsthand was a different story. It was not just a trip. It was a personal milestone.
💬 Closing Reflection
Sagada. It’s not just a refuge for the broken-hearted. It’s a sanctuary for adventurers, seekers, and storytellers. One day, I’ll return—not just to explore, but to listen. To search. To feel.
✍️ Final Note
I survived Sagada. That short and simple long weekend turned out to be one of my most adventurous, adrenaline-filled getaways so far. Beyond the thrill, I discovered the unique culture of the place—and more importantly, I was reminded that Sagada will always hold a special place in my heart.
