Sagada, Philippines - Scenic Beauty
A serene mountain township situated in a Filipino backwater, Sagada is distinguished for an extraordinary blend of coffins and caving, as well as the opportunity for visitors to indulge into the local wilds of the neighboring forests and strikingly serene neighboring hills. Exploring down into the milky limestone caves and exploring spots like the Sumaguing Cave is an essential Sagada experience, and takes you in amongst the extraordinary, dripping formations produced over thousands of years. As well as seeing the sites, the caves offer plethora of adventure, with the doorway position offering dazzling views across the neighboring rice terraces and the tours often involving wading through subversive rivers.
The absence of noise and pollution are perhaps the first things you'll understand about Sagada, a serene summit township where you can stroll down the middle of the road and only occasionally be bothered by a passing vehicle. Backpackers have been flocking here for years to enjoy the majestic mountain panorama, cheap dope and camaraderie of like-minded travelers. Sagada fills up swiftly in the March-to-May high season. But regardless of its attractiveness it manages to ward off changes that would detract from its appeal as an 'ecotourism' destination - there are no colossal hotels or high-pitched discos. For many Sagadans, the conventional way of life remains unharmed.
