Chasing Clouds: A Breathtaking Day in Mt. Pulag, Benguet

  Mount Pulag is the third highest mountain to climb in the Philippines, and it also boasts the highest peak in Luzon. Although its location is in the Kabayan province of Benguet, its peak borders between three provinces, Benguet, Ifugao, and Nueva Vizcaya. 

 If you’re dreaming of standing above the clouds, witnessing a golden sunrise spill over mountain peaks, Mt. Pulag should be high on your bucket list. Located in the heart of Benguet, Mt. Pulag is the third highest mountain in the Philippines and the tallest in Luzon famous for its “sea of clouds,” frosty trails, and unforgettable summit views. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time hiker ready to embrace the outdoors, Mt. Pulag offers a magical blend of adventure, peace, and natural wonder.


 Why Hike Mt. Pulag? 

 Mt. Pulag is more than just a hike, it’s an experience. Imagine walking under a sky full of stars at 3 AM, feeling the cool mountain air on your skin, and watching the horizon turn from deep blue to blazing orange that's the Mt. Pulag sunrise an awe-inspiring reward for those who make the climb. 

 It’s also a biodiversity haven, home to endemic plants, mossy forests, and the rare dwarf bamboo grasslands near the summit.




       Hiking Tips and Essentials

  • Get a medical certificate: required by the DENR for all hikers.
  • Secure permits in advance: book your slot with DENR-CAR at least 1–2 weeks before your hike.
  • Wear proper gear: thermal layers, gloves, beanies, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes.
  • Bring light, high-energy snacks: trail mix, chocolates, and energy bars work best.
  • Pack a headlamp: summit hikes usually begin at 1–3 AM.
  • Stay warm and dry: bring rain gear and waterproof your backpack.
  • Respect nature and locals: Mt. Pulag is a sacred site to indigenous groups like the Ibaloi and Kalanguya.

  Popular Mt. Pulag Trails 

Ambangeg Trail (Benguet) 

 Easiest and most popular. Perfect for beginners.


Akiki Trail 

 Known as the “killer trail” due to its steep ascent. For experienced hikers.


Tawangan Trail 

A remote, challenging route with rich forest landscapes.


Travel Tips for Mt. Pulag

Start early from Baguio: van trips to Bokod can take 4–5 hours depending on weather and road conditions.

Join a travel group or local guide: many agencies offer all-in packages (permits, transport, guide, meals).

Acclimatize in Baguio: If you’re not used to high elevations, stay a day in Baguio to help adjust.

Avoid hiking during full moon: too much moonlight can wash out the dramatic sunrise colors.

Stay updated: Mt. Pulag is occasionally closed due to forest fires or landslides. Check DENR-CAR’s Facebook page for announcements.


 Eco-Tourism and Responsible Hiking

  Mt. Pulag is part of the Mt. Pulag National Park and is considered a protected area. Practice Leave No Trace principles:

Pack out all your trash.

Don’t pick plants or flowers.

Stay on established trails.

Be respectful in sacred areas.

Keep noise levels down nature is best enjoyed in peace.

 

How to Get There

From Manila:

      Ride a bus (Victory Liner or Genesis) to Baguio City (₱600–₱800).

      From Baguio, hire a van or join a group tour to Kabayan, Benguet (~4–5 hours).

      Stop at the DENR Office for briefing and permits.

      Continue to Babadak Ranger Station—the trailhead for Ambangeg Trail.

By Private Vehicle:

Take NLEX → SCTEX → TPLEX to Baguio,then drive through Ambuklao Road to Kabayan.

Use Google Maps or Waze: Search “Babadak Ranger Station”


Sample Budget (Group of 5)

Manila to Baguio (RT): ₱1,200

Baguio to Kabayan (RT van): ₱1,000

Permit, guide, fees: ₱1,200

Food, gear rental, misc: ₱500–₱700

✅ Estimated total: ₱3,000–₱4,000 per person


Where to Stay

Camping at Mt. Pulag: campsites available near the summit (tent rental available).

Local Homestays in Kabayan: basic but warm accommodations hosted by locals.

Baguio City Hotels: ideal if you want to rest before traveling to the jump-off point.


Best Time to Visit

🌤️ Dry season (November to May): best for clear skies, perfect sunrises, and a more stable “sea of clouds.”

🌄   Peak viewing season: december to February, when the fog and dew create a dreamy atmosphere.

🚫   Avoid – Rainy season (June–October) due to trail hazards and limited visibility.


Hiking Mt. Pulag is a spiritual and visual experience rolled into one. From its mossy forests to the heavenly sea of clouds, every step brings you closer to nature and yourself.

So if you’re ready for the challenge, prepare your legs, your heart, and your camera. Mt. Pulag is calling, and its summit will take your breath away literally and figuratively.


by: Hannah Mae Ferrer

Location: Mount Pulag, Kabayan, Benguet, Philippines

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Riding the Waves at Cloud 9: Siargao’s Surfing Paradise

Image
🌊 Cloud 9 in Siargao isn’t just a surf spot — it's a lifestyle, culture, and dream destination. Home to world-class right-hand reef breaks and a laid-back island vibe, this surfing haven has put the Philippines on the global surf map. Whether you're a seasoned surfer chasing barrels or a traveler curious to try the waves, Cloud 9 offers something for everyone. 📍 What is Cloud 9, Siargao? Cloud 9 is the crown jewel of Siargao’s surf scene. The Cloud 9 boardwalk  This legendary break is known for its powerful, hollow right-handers, attracting surfers from around the world. One of its most iconic features is the Cloud 9 boardwalk – a wooden pier extending over the reef where spectators can watch surfers glide through the barrels. 🗓️ Best Time to Surf in Siargao The surfing season in Siargao typically peaks from September to November, when swells from the Pacific Ocean hit the island's eastern shores with consistency and power. This is also when the Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing ...
Read more

CHASING VIEWS AT MINES VIEW PARK: BAGUIO’S SCENIC SPOT

Image
By: Ballon, Vea Lyca  Ride the cool breeze, enjoy the mountain views, and find peace in one of Baguio’s most beautiful places.  Why Mines View Park?  Mines View Park is one of the most famous spots in Baguio City. It’s perfect for people who love nature, views, and peaceful moments. This place gives you a wide view of mountains, trees, and old mining areas. It’s a great place to relax, take pictures, and enjoy the fresh air of the City of Pines.    Top Experiences for Travelers Scenic Viewpoint   Go to the view deck and see the wide mountains and valleys. It’s the perfect place to take photos and enjoy the fresh, cool wind.  Wear Traditional Clothing Try on the native Igorot costume and take fun photos while learning about the local culture.    Horseback Riding Nearby There are horses you can ride around the area for a short adventure, especially fun for kids and first-timers.  Shop for Souvenirs   Buy local products like woven craf...
Read more

Soul of Sagada: Echo Valley Adventures and Mountain Stillness

Image
Hidden among the fog-wrapped ridges of the Mountain Province, Sagada is a destination unlike any other. It doesn’t dazzle with city lights or tropical beaches—it calms. In this quiet town, time moves slowly. The trails lead to ancient echoes, the caves to hidden worlds, and the people to stories older than memory. If you're yearning for peace, introspection, and raw natural beauty—Sagada is your soul’s quiet retreat.   Echo Valley & The Hanging Coffins: A Sacred Legacy A short walk from the town center leads to Echo Valley, where the cliffs respond to your voice. But the true voice of the valley isn’t in your echo—it’s in the silence surrounding the Hanging Coffins. Suspended high on rock faces, these wooden boxes carry the bones of ancestors—buried in a tradition meant to keep the dead close to the heavens. It’s haunting, humbling, and powerful—a direct link to a belief system that honors both life and death with grace. Reminder: This is sacred ground. Avoid sho...
Read more