Because of its proximity to Manila, the province of Bulacan is oftentimes overlooked by many tourists. But little did they know that Bulacan is rich in history, tradition, and jaw-dropping sceneries.
Also known as the “Northern Gateway from Manila“, Bulacan is a sight to behold with many amazing places to visit, food to experience, and people to interact with. Through exploring Bulacan, you will be impressed with how the province evolved over the years.
Bulacan Facts
Bulacan is well-known for its fireworks industry, native delicacies, high-quality native products, and is, in fact, one of the country’s provinces with the richest culture and history.
Bulacan is also noted as the land of heroes because it is the home province of some of the nation’s celebrated heroes: Francisco Baltazar (Balagtas), “The Prince of Filipino Poets,” Marcelo H. Del Pilar, “The Great Propagandist,” and Gregorio delPilar, “The Hero of Tirad Pass.”
Balistada Hills: Bali-Vibes in Bulacan
2-hours away from Manila rests a silent hill where you can spend the day feeling like you’re in Bali because of various giant bird’s nest where you can take IG-worthy photos, as well as the swings and lookouts overlooking scenic spots. Located in Brgy. Kalawakan in Doña Remedios Trinidad, Balistada Hills is said to be the highest point in the area where you can see the beauty of Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges.
What to Expect
Balistada Hills is a 25 to 45 minutes hike, depending on your agility. It took us more or less 1 hour and a half to reach the peak because we took some time in taking our photos. There are small sari-sari stores along the trail so you can take snack breaks in between. They mostly sell drinks, chips, boiled eggs, and cup noodles.
If you want to go on a picnic, make sure to tell your tour guide ahead of time so they can secure a table for you at the peak. Reserving a table costs P200.00 ($4.00) per group.
There’s no signal in the area so just enjoy the scenery and breathe in the moment! Take lots of photos and you can post once you’re back to base.
Fees
Upon arrival, make sure you and your group register at the tourism booth at the foot of Balistada Hills.
- Environmental Fee – P20.00 ($0.40)
- Tour Guide – P300 ($6.00) for a group of 5
- Parking – P20 ($.40) for motorbike, P50 ($1.00) for cars
- Picture Taking – P10.00 ($0.20)
- CR – P5.00 ($0.1)
How to Get to Balistada Hills
There are several ways as to how you can reach Balistada Hills. You can either commute or bring your own vehicle (you can just pin “Balistada Hills” in your GPS so it can show you the best and fastest route).
Via Commute
- From Cubao, ride a bus going to Cabanatuan (via Gapan, San Miguel). Fare is more or less P130.00 ($2.60). Tell the driver to drop you off at Camias, San Miguel.
- From Camias, ride a tricycle going to Sibul. Fare is P35.00 ($0.70) each for a max. of 3 passengers, P120 ($2.40) more or less if special ride (one way).
- From Sibul, ride a tricycle going to Kalawakan.
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I have never heard of Bulacan, but I have heard of Manila. I have to check out this because the view looks so beautiful!
I never even new that a Bali like place existed there. I should bring my family there for a vacation.
It’s only March and my mind and body are screaming for a vacation. This place could be a place for me to be right now.
That place looks so beautiful and chill. I love it, love that big nest and I like when countries take care of the environmental tourist site
What a gorgeous trip! Thank you for sharing your experience and review.
Wow! Never knew this about Bulacan. I’ll have to check it out when I visit the PI.
This looks so beautiful and peaceful. Love places that are away from everything!
This sounds like a wonderful place to relax and travel to by yourself or even with family and friends. I am going to have to plan a trip here soon.
Wow! I didn’t know we have something like this somewhere in Bulacan. We should definitely pay this a visit. Thanks for sharing!
It looks so beautiful and peaceful. I like that there is no phone signal so you are forced to actually enjoy the beauty without distractions.
Its first time I am hearing about Bulcan. Thank you for sharing your experience
This looks incredible. And that swing alone is totally giving me Bali vibes. Adding to to my list! 🙂
I love to travel again to Cebu. Maybe when the virus crisis is gone, we’ll consider going there.
Bulacan looks fun. I know Bali is a hot spot but people can get fun vibes here too I see.