Bagulin

Tucked in the mountainous heart of La Union lies Bagulin, a serene upland town rich in indigenous culture, forested trails, and breathtaking views. Often overlooked by mainstream tourists, Bagulin is your go-to destination if you’re looking for a peaceful escape filled with nature, tradition, and authentic Cordilleran charm. It’s the kind of place where the mountains whisper stories, the rivers sing songs, and every local greets you like family.

Bagulin’s natural and cultural beauty speaks volumes for itself.

• Bagulin Eco-Trail and View Deck – A scenic hiking path that leads to panoramic views of the town and its surrounding forests
• Nagbukel Cave – A mystical limestone formation known to locals for its legend and cool natural interiors
• Allacapan Rice Terraces – A smaller yet equally stunning version of the Cordillera terraces, carved gracefully into the hills
• Bagulin Hanging Bridge – A must-cross for thrill-seekers and selfie-lovers, connecting you to nearby barangays

Bagulin is home to Kankanaey indigenous peoples, whose customs and lifestyle are still proudly practiced. Expect to witness ritual dances, spiritual chants, and wood-carving traditions passed down through generations. Farming remains the main livelihood, with strong community values shaping every corner of town.

The primary languages spoken are Kankanaey and Ilocano, with many locals also fluent in Filipino. Conversations often include words tied to the land, seasons, and ancestral wisdom. Want to connect instantly? Greet with a smile and say, “Naimbag nga aldaw!”

Bagulin’s cuisine is mountain-fresh and deeply comforting:

• Pinikpikan – A traditional chicken soup with a smoky, earthy flavor
• Inabraw – A healthy, vegetable-rich dish with bagoong and native greens
• Kinuday – Smoked pork or fish, lovingly prepared over slow fire
• Cassava delicacies and tupig – Local snacks made from hand-ground ingredients and served during gatherings
  Pair any dish with native basi wine or sugarcane vinegar brewed the traditional way!

• Foundation Day (March) – Expect street dances, native music, agricultural parades, and vibrant costumes
• Araw ng Bagulin – A local celebration highlighting the rich traditions and community achievements of the municipality
• Indigenous Ritual Celebrations – Timed with the harvest or changing seasons, involving chants, offerings, and dances in sacred areas

Music in Bagulin is rooted in tradition, with gangsa gongs, bamboo flutes, and rhythmic chanting creating a spiritual soundtrack during ceremonies and festivals. Folk tunes also thrive, often sung during gatherings around a bonfire or town events.

• Indigenous Kankanaey culture and traditions
• Eco-trails, rice terraces, and mountain views
• Rituals, carvings, and spiritual connection with the land
• Peaceful, authentic rural lifestyle
• Cool highland climate and untouched nature