...: Mt. Balagbag

Date: April 2, 2017 | Author: Jeric Par Esplana | Category: Travel Bulacan

Grassland

Mt. Balagbag is located in Sitio Balagbag San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. It’s categorized as a minor climb, has a difficulty level of 3/9 and stands 777 MASL. It’s best for someone who wants to try outdoor activities such mountain climbing and chasing waterfalls. It is good for camping since the summit is very spacious and has a lot of campsite to choose. It also serves as a training ground for both riders of bicycle and motorcycle who wants additional adventure.

This mountain gained its popularity due to cheaper budget needed either you’re a solo hiker or in a group and very accessible. Some people dubbed it as “Mt. Pulag of Bulacan” because of its grassy slopes all throughout the trail. The trail is very visible and not misleading that’s why getting a tour guide is not mandatory. There’s a lot of resting area where you can take a rest, eat your meal (LNT) and take a nap if possible. The trail is very exposed to the scorching heat of the sun so better wear a cloth with long sleeves, bring a light umbrella, a cap or just a sunblock and enough water supply.

View on top

Treesome

Aside from the Pulag ambiance, Mt. Balagbag features a Cross that stands __ ft. tall, view of mountains in Montalban, Rizal, sidetrips such as Ipo Watershed and Otso-Otso Falls and the famous overlooking view of Manila City Lights during camping. Private Resorts are also open for public located in the jump-off area of Mt. Balagbag.

Resting Area

Along the trail

Travel Experience:

I can say that this trip is one of the best. It’s a first time hiking experience with my Katol Family though we were not complete that time. We were satisfied since our expectations was almost similar to the experience we had in Mt. Balagbag.

We were lucky enough to witness a Rainbow when we reached the summit of this mountain. We were not that exposed to sun because the weather at that time was cloudy. The view from Mt. Balagbag was spectacular, amazing and surreal. We were amazed by the bikers that we saw along the trail (their bicycle seems very expensive).

Rainbow Spotted

One thing I noticed in Mt. Balagbag, There’s a lot of trashes along the trail -_- . Climbing a mountain without a guide is a privilege to every hiker but that doesn’t mean we can throw our garbage anywhere just because there’s no eye that will correct our wrong doings. Leave no Trace is not easy if you’re intention when hiking is just for Selfie, Likable photos etc. If you’re a real nature lover, you’ll understand and get my sentiments. J

NOTE / REMINDER / TIP:

Bring umbrella / wear caps and dress with long sleeves to avoid too much exposure under the sun.
Signal is not visible in some part of the mountain.
Potable water is not around so bring enough water for you.
6PM is the last trip of Jeepney going back to Tungko.
Be responsible, remember it’s a private property.

Sacred Cross

Dragon Fruit Plantation

HOW TO GET THERE:

Rates are subject to change without any prior notice.

[Option 1]

Vehicle	From	To	Fare	Travel Time
Jeepney	Novaliches (Bayan)	Tungko	Php 18.00	30 min.
Jeepney	Tungko	Licao-Licao	Php 27.00	30 min.
Tricycle (optional)	Licao-Licao	Sitio Balagbag	Php 30.00	10 min.

[Option 2]

Vehicle	From	To	Fare	Travel Time
Bus	Cubao	Tungko	Php 55.00	45 min.
Jeepney	Tungko	Licao-Licao	Php 27.00	30 min.
Tricycle (optional)	Licao-Licao	Sitio Balagbag	Php 30.00	10 min.

Note: Additional 30 min. depending on how fast you walk if you decided not to ride in a tricycle going to Sitio Balagbag.

BUDGET GUIDE:

1^st Registration Fee (Barangay)	Php 10.00
2^nd Registration Fee (Private Owner)	Php 20.00
Tour Guide	Php 0.00 (no fixed rate and optional)
Fare (Bayan to Licao-Licao) RT	Php 140.00
Food (Breakfast and Lunch)	Php 100.00 (tipid style)
TOTAL EXPENSES	Php 270.00 ONLY