THE BEAUTY OF

Mount Pulag

PUBLISHED November 18, 2016

PHOTOGRAPHY and WORDS BY MARIANO SAYNO

Welcome to the highest peak in Luzon, the majestic Mount Pulag! At 9,606 feet above sea level, Mount Pulag is the Philippine’s third-highest mountain, right after Mount Apo and Mount Dulang-Dulang. It is also globally known as the 26th tallest mountain of its type.

Atop Mount Pulag, you get to witness the majesty of majestic views, such as the sea of clouds and a stunning view of the Milky Way Galaxy in its splendor at dawn.

As you wander up to the peak, you can’t help but appreciate the natural beauty, the amazing landscapes, and the phenomenal views. And to top it off, you get to explore the cultural heritage of the Ibaloi people of Benguet. For them, Mount Pulag is the home of their spirits—the tinmongao dwell in each corner of the mountain.

For these reasons and so much more, Mount Pulag was awarded national park status in 1987, through Presidential Proclamation. It spans an area of 11,550 hectares (28,500 acres), so there’s plenty of adventure and exploration to be had.

The historical and cultural significance of Mount Pulag doesn’t stop there! It is also home to a national cultural treasure–the Ibaloi’s mountain-high burial sites. This ancient tradition involves mummifying the dead and burying them deep within the mountain’s caves. It’s a tradition that must be respected—so these sacred gravesites must not be disturbed.

As you wander up to the peak, you can’t help but appreciate the natural beauty, the amazing landscapes, and the phenomenal views. And to top it off, you get to explore the cultural heritage of the Ibaloi people of Benguet. For them, Mount Pulag is the home of their spirits—the tinmongao dwell in each corner of the mountain.

For these reasons and so much more, Mount Pulag was awarded national park status in 1987, through Presidential Proclamation. It spans an area of 11,550 hectares (28,500 acres), so there’s plenty of adventure and exploration to be had.

The historical and cultural significance of Mount Pulag doesn’t stop there! It is also home to a national cultural treasure–the Ibaloi’s mountain-high burial sites. This ancient tradition involves mummifying the dead and burying them deep within the mountain’s caves. It’s a tradition that must be respected—so these sacred gravesites must not be disturbed.

Mount Pulag is an iconic attraction and a historical site that is well worth the visit. Experience its wonders for yourself, and be sure to experience the amazing view of the Milky Way Galaxy!

For nature lovers, Mount Pulag offers a haven of natural beauty and biodiversity, it boasts an array of unique plant and animal species that can’t be found anywhere else.

The mountain is home to an impressive 528 documented plant species. Surprisingly, many of these species have evolved to not only survive but thrive in the harsh conditions at high altitudes. Two key species to look out for are the dwarf bamboo and Benguet pine, which are easily spotted among the moist forests and colourful ferns and lichens.

Mount Pulag is also a haven for rare and endangered mammals, such as the Philippine deer and long-haired fruit bat, as well as four different cloud rat species. Nature lovers can also look out for a whopping 33 species of bird.

To be so high in the air, it’s incredible what kind of biodiversity has evolved and been preserved on Mount Pulag. It is classified as one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in the Philippines, boasting some of the highest biodiversity in the country.

Although there are several trails leading to the spectacular summit, the most popular is from Benguet. You can take the famous Ambangeg, Akiki, and Tawangan trails which are all great routes to the peak. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Nueva Vizcaya, you can take the Ambaguio trail and make your way up to the summit.

For those passionate about nature, Mount Pulag should be at the top of the list of must-sees. So why not take a trip to this unique and magical mountain, to experience its stunning biodiversity and spectacular views?

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