Bauko

Tucked away in the scenic highlands of the Cordillera region lies Bauko, Mountain Province, a captivating municipality where misty mountains, cool breezes, and deep-rooted culture thrive together in perfect harmony. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and peaceful community, Bauko is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Bauko is one of the largest municipalities in Mountain Province, blessed with lush forests, terraced farms, and cold mountain air. It’s the ultimate retreat for travelers seeking serenity, authenticity, and cultural immersion. The locals, mostly from the Kankanaey tribe, are known for their hospitality, traditional ways of life, and deep respect for nature.

1. Mount Kalawitan – One of the highest peaks in the Philippines, offering panoramic views and soul-refreshing treks.
2. Tapapan Viewpoint – A scenic stop perfect for sunrise chasers and photography enthusiasts.
3. Bauko Rice Terraces – Not as famous as Banaue but equally stunning, these ancient terraces showcase the brilliance of indigenous farming.
4. Bayyo Rice Terraces – Another terraced marvel worth a visit.
5. Waterfalls and Hidden Springs – Secret cascades like Ap-apoy Falls and mountain streams add to Bauko’s mystical charm.

Bauko proudly preserves its Cordilleran heritage, with traditional houses, wood carvings, and ancient rituals still part of daily life. The locals live in harmony with the land, practicing communal unity called “og-ogbo”, a value deeply rooted in indigenous identity. Elders still pass down oral traditions and chants that tell stories of their ancestors and the spirits of the land.

The main dialect spoken is Kankanaey, though Ilocano and Filipino are widely understood. Visitors will enjoy learning a few local phrases and experiencing genuine mountain hospitality through language and gestures.

Bauko’s cuisine is hearty and soulful. Local favorites include:

• Etag – Salted and smoked pork, aged to perfection.
• Pinikpikan – A traditional chicken dish prepared with ritual and flavor.
• Inanchila – A rice delicacy made with coconut and sugar, perfect with coffee.
• Fresh vegetables and root crops grown in Bauko’s cool, fertile soil.
• Don’t forget to try their native coffee, brewed fresh from the mountains!

Begnas Festival is the heart of Bauko’s cultural celebration, held to honor their ancestors and thank the spirits for bountiful harvests. Expect traditional dances, gong-playing, colorful attire, and feasts that bring the entire community together in joyful harmony.

Bauko’s music is soulful and spiritual, often performed with gongs (gangsa) and native instruments. Dances are ritualistic and symbolic, passed down through generations to celebrate life, harvest, and community unity.

• Towering Mount Kalawitan
• Peaceful mountain lifestyle
• Rich indigenous Kankanaey culture
• Authentic Cordilleran rituals and cuisine
• Rice terraces and eco-tourism potential
• Sacred respect for nature and ancestry