In the middle of the mountains of Ifugao, we found a hidden gem called Tappiya Falls situated in "Batad," a secluded village in Banaue. Getting to this majestic beauty includes 7 to 12 hours land travel and 2 hours trekking. It's a bit challenging but you will be rewarded with a breathtaking landscape that can only be found in this region, including the world famous Batad Rice Terraces. Not just artistic in creating the terraces, the people of Batad also know how to value and preserve whatever their ancestors left, such as their rituals.
Things to Remember: The Trails and Difficulty
The first part is walking on the "pilapil" in the middle of the rice fields. Sorry, I just can't translate "pilapil" in English. Anyways, crossing the rice fields is physically tiring but your inner self will be relaxed and stunned because the whole area is surrounded with greens plus the wind is cool and fresh. Take note, you will be in the middle of the ancient and artistic Batad Rice terraces. The Cordillera region has an overflowing natural attractions at its finest.
After an hour, we reached the steep concrete "countless" stairs. From afar, the sound of the rushing water free flowing on the river can be heard. It was love in the first sight! Like what I saw online, Tappiya Falls is truly a description of natures beauty. The area is surrounded with mountains covered with trees and plants making a more calming ambiance in the area. The river has cool and crystal clear water with boulders and towering limestone that added an excellent shapes on the frames. The pressure of the water falling creates a wide pool on the ground with a relaxing cool waters.
This travel was made possible by Take Five Outdoors.
Location and How to Get Here.
If you are planning for a DIY itinerary, my friend suggested to take Ohayami Transit or G/V Florida Bus in Manila. Or, at HM Transport Terminal in Cubao, you can take Coda Lines Corporation bound for Sagada passing by Banaue. For schedules, you can direct your question to their FB pages. "Wag mahiyang magtanong." In Banaue, please register at Banaue Tourism Office. Then, charter a tricycle to Batad Saddle Point. From there, a 20 to 30 minutes trekking to Batad Village and Batad Rice Terraces.Budget Friendly and Affordable Place to Stay.
I used Google Map and found a few places to stay in Batad village, such as Simon's Viewpoint Inn, Hillside Inn, Batad View Inn, Highland Inn, and Batad Transient House. For reservation, you can contact them via their FB page.