Batad Village, Banaue

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Batad Village, Banaue, The Philippines

The photos and what-not of the Rice Terraces in remote Batad, as many a travel blogs have posted, claimed and raved about, don't really do justice to this little piece of heaven on Earth. The landscape in Batad is in contrast to the levels and levels of tin roof all over the fringes of the one in Banaue.

Meanwhile, I've never been to Tibet but If it squats on a green landscape, this must be how it's tranquility will rub on your senses.

Here now is my futile attempt to capture it's spell in photos.


...........................................................................................................



GETTING THERE: Banaue, the jump-off point to Batad Village, is an 8-hour bus ride (Florida Bus; Php450.00 one-way) from Manila. From Banaue, you can hire a tricycle (Php150.00 one-way) until Batad Junction. From there, Saddle Point is an hour uphill hike. But if you have enough cash to burn, you can hire the ultimate uphill machine with the stamina of a hummer--the ubiquitous jeepney. The ride will take you until Saddle Point (Php2,500.00; we haggle and got it for Php1,800.00, one-way)

From Saddle Point, Batad Village is an hour downhill hike on a rugged terrain and slippery trail on a rainy day. Unless you have the venturesome spirit, you can find the village yourself. Otherwise, guides are available for Php500.00.

ACCOMMODATION: You have 3 options, or if you want to dip into the local flavor, there are homestay programs available. Just inquire at the Tourist Info and Registration Booth.

The best spot to hole up is Batad Hillside Inn (Maya: 0905.769.9796 for reservations; Php150.00/person). It's a spartan 3-storey affair with windows and terraces that empty into the whole Batad Rice Terraces. If you're coming during a long weekend or the holidays, make sure you book ahead because it's 300 pax capacity may leave you with nothing but the cold mountain air and chilly nights.

.........................................................................................................



I stopped wishing you were here ...



Batad. One down. Hundreds of UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore with you...



ahem. X marks this spot.



wicked!