Bakun

Tucked in the rugged western edge of Benguet lies Bakun, a scenic municipality where clouds kiss the mountain peaks and nature’s untouched charm thrives. If you’re chasing a serene adventure in the Cordillera region, Bakun offers more than just cool breezes — it’s a cultural gem, a mountaineer’s playground, and a soulful escape all in one!

Bakun is known for its towering tri-mountain attraction: Mt. Tenglawan, Mt. Lubo, and the ever-iconic Mt. Kabunian, sacred to locals and legendary among hikers. These peaks offer panoramic views of the Cordillera range, dramatic rock formations, and trails perfect for the soul-searching explorer. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual wanderer, these summits are calling.

Aside from the tri-mountains, Bakun surprises with Begnog River, Pattan Falls, Bakun Central Rice Terraces, and Tekip Falls, each flowing with raw, Instagram-worthy beauty. The natural landscape is often blanketed with fog, making every journey feel like a fairytale scene.

Bakun is home to the Kankana-ey tribe, known for their deep respect for nature and traditional farming. Their customs are still alive in daily life, from rituals in planting to sacred chants during celebrations. Locals are welcoming and deeply connected to their land, adding warmth to your cool Bakun experience.

The dominant language is Kankana-ey, but you’ll hear Ilocano and Filipino spoken too. A simple greeting like “Gawis ay wagwag!” (Good morning) will earn you a bright smile.

Try local favorites like etag (salted pork), pinikpikan (a mountain-style chicken stew), and seasonal camote and gabi. Everything tastes better with mountain-grown ingredients and love from the community kitchens.

Celebrated every first week of April, Bakun Day honors the municipality’s founding with cultural dances, sports competitions, and tribal attire parades. Locals showcase traditional instruments like the gangsa (gong), and chants echo the history of the mountains.

The beat of Cordilleran gongs and salidummay songs are integral to Bakun’s identity. These indigenous tunes, passed down through generations, are performed during gatherings, rituals, and celebrations, offering rhythm to the region’s spiritual pulse.

Bakun is known for its tri-mountain trek, rich Kankana-ey heritage, pristine waterfalls, and sustainable farming lifestyle. It’s a place where spiritual legends, environmental beauty, and cultural integrity coexist, untouched by mass tourism, yet unforgettable to those who visit.