Atok

Welcome to Atok, Benguet, where pine-scented air kisses your cheeks, clouds float beneath your feet, and every sunrise feels like a painting come to life. Nestled high in the Cordillera mountains, this cold-climate gem is one of the most scenic and peaceful municipalities in the Philippines, perfect for adventurers, soul-searchers, and nature lovers.

Atok is about 48 km from Baguio City, riding along the picturesque Halsema Highway, one of the highest roads in the Philippines. It’s known for its cool weather all year round, often dipping below 10°C, making sweaters a necessity, even in summer!

• Northern Blossom Flower Farm – This Instagram-famous spot is a blooming paradise of snapdragons, roses, and cabbages with the majestic Mt. Pulag as your backdrop.
• Highest Point (now 2nd) – Once the highest point in the Philippine highway system, this spot still offers jaw-dropping views of Benguet’s ridges and valleys.
• Haight’s Place in Barangay Paoay – Japan vibes in the Philippines! Haight’s Place features sakura trees, vegetable farms, and cool breezes.
• Mount Timbak – A challenging yet rewarding climb, offering panoramic views and a glimpse of the mummy caves nearby.
• Bosleng Grotto – A serene religious site with a giant statue of the Virgin Mary, perfect for reflection and prayer.

The people of Atok are mostly from the Kankanaey tribe, one of the indigenous groups of the Cordillera. They are known for their hospitality, strong sense of community, and deep respect for nature. Most locals speak Kankanaey, Ilocano, and Filipino, with many understanding English too.

• Pinikpikan – A Cordilleran chicken soup prepared with a traditional method, often served with etag (smoked pork).
• Sweet native camote (sweet potatoes) – Grown fresh from the highlands, perfect for merienda.
• Fresh organic veggies – Cabbage, carrots, broccoli, and strawberries are atok-level fresh here!

Adivay Festival (shared with all Benguet towns) – Celebrated in November, this province-wide fest showcases indigenous culture, dances, and products.
Atok joins in with colorful parades, tribal presentations, and showcasing its rich harvest.

Traditional Cordilleran instruments like the gangsa (flat gongs) are used in dances and rituals. Modern times have blended these traditions with acoustic tribal folk, creating a unique music culture found only in these highlands.

• Extremely cool climate
• Colorful flower farms
• Breathtaking mountain views
• Rich indigenous culture
• Peaceful highland lifestyle
• Vegetable and cut flower production

Visit during sunrise for dramatic sea of clouds, and don’t forget to bring your jackets — even your camera might shiver from the cold!