Our Trip to Mystical Mount Banahaw - A Nature-Embracing Adventure



In 2011, I dreamed of climbing the Mystical Mount Banahaw and in that dream, I brought 7 large candles with me.

On March 20, 2015, I, together with a few CPS members, Keith, James, Mary, Phi, Lorenz and Drew, went to one of the most enchanted mountains in the Philippines; and it is the first time of all seven of us to visit the place. We did this for the sake of trying out the experience before we offer it to the public; and the result it yielded is truly wonderful.

We called this trip A Mount Banahaw Walk to Remember.

Aside from the fact that the place is so peaceful and beautiful, the residents are very friendly. Never have we encountered anybody who is a snob. In fact, even the kids are very accommodating. The entire place is cooler compared to its neighboring sites. I was surprised to feel a sudden change in temperature upon entering its borders. The temperature is quite hot when we were on our way to Banahaw; however, when we got nearer to the mountain, I felt slightly cold.

Even the Butterflies and Dragonflies here are so friendly. One of the dragonflies that lingered with us stayed for a long time on Mary's hand.

Mystical Banahaw is a home to several caves. This one is considered a sacred cave. Phi, who is used to caving, find this one more challenging compared to other caves she's tried. That is because as you go towards the innermost part of it, the track becomes narrower and smaller.

There are several areas in Mt. Banahaw where tourists can light candles and pray. This spot is just one of those. When we were there, we encountered a group of devotees going around the place while singing beautiful hymns.

The water of Banahaw is so clear, clean, cold and refreshing. We really enjoyed soaking ourselves in it while wishing that all heaviness, troubles and sicknesses will be carried away by the running water. There is an area near the altar where residents fetch water for drinking. They also drink from the falls. The taste of the water from Banahaw is like the taste of a bottled mineral water.



The walk to the Mystical Falls is long and challenging. First, you'll have to go down to reach the falls and going back, you'll have to go up while trying to catch your breath. That's truly an effective way of burning calories.

Food and drinks are never a problem because food stalls are rampant in the location; moreover, they aren't expensive. For this reason, there is no need to bring packed meals. It is always best to keep your bags lighter when going to Banahaw to make trekking less of a hassle. On the other hand, bringing your own drinking water, extra clothing, non-slippery slippers, hiking shoes, face towels, tissue paper and head covering is advised.

CR is never a problem. There are a lot of paid toilets where guests can do their toilet things, change clothing and take a shower.

Our last stop of course is the stalls for souvenir items. Banahaw has a lot to offer when it comes to various talisman and amulets. Although sellers claim that these items are still dead and need ora, you'd definitely get enticed to buy some for yourself because they are a work of art. Aside from talismans and amulets, there are also other affordable souvenir items being sold such as t-shirts that have the name of Banahaw printed on them.

Center for Paranormal Studies occasionally offers trips to Banahaw which is inclusive of a 2-way transpo from pick up point and back, guided meditation and tour guide services. Try this adventure because a visit to Banahaw is truly an enlightening, refreshing and fun adventure. Embracing nature, for me, is still the best way to unwind.

On the other hand, do not forget to respect the sacredness of the mountain by not leaving garbage behind and not using agents that will pollute the beautiful tourist spot.

The author, Jade Martin, is the founder and creator of Center for Paranormal Studies, Profilers of the Unknown and Intramuros Ghost Walk. She is also a Businesswoman, Life and Business Coach, Author, Singer and Songwriter, Ghost Tour Operator, Paranormal Investigator and Consultant, Energy Healer, Hypnotherapist, Past Life Regression Therapist, Numerologist and Tarot Reader. Please join Center for Paranormal Studies.