Bontoc

Welcome to Bontoc, the heart and capital of Mountain Province, where breathtaking rice terraces, ancient traditions, and the soul of the Cordilleras come alive! Nestled in the rugged spine of the Cordillera Central mountains in Northern Luzon, Bontoc offers a cultural escape that is both raw and rewarding, with vibrant tribal roots still pulsing through its land, language, and legacy.

Bontoc is a landlocked municipality surrounded by lush mountains and misty valleys. It’s known as the gateway to the highlands of the Cordillera and the cultural core of the Igorot people. Life here is peaceful, yet alive with the beat of drums, chants, and stories passed down for generations.

• Maligcong Rice Terraces – These postcard-perfect terraces rival those in Banaue, with less crowd and more soul. Best viewed during early morning fog or sunset hikes.
• Bontoc Museum – Curated by Belgian nuns, this treasure trove showcases traditional Ifontok houses, weapons, utensils, and tribal attire. Step into the Igorot way of life!
• Bayyo Rice Terraces – Another hidden gem just outside town, perfect for photography and cultural immersion.
• Mount Kupapey and Mount Fato – A double summit trekking adventure with surreal sunrise views over cloud oceans.
• Hot Springs of Mainit – Relax in natural thermal waters after a long hike.

The Ifontok tribe, the dominant cultural group in Bontoc, are known for their warrior heritage, peace pacts (bodong), and deep respect for nature. Bontoc still practices traditional farming, weaving, and woodcarving.

Locals live simply, but their heritage is rich. You might still see elders wearing wanes (g-string) or tapis (native wrap skirt) during cultural events or harvest seasons.

The native language is Finontok, but locals are multilingual, Tagalog, Ilocano, and English are also widely spoken. Don’t be shy to greet them with a warm “Gawis ay agew mo!” (Good day!)

Craving earthy, native flavors? Bontoc serves:

• Etag – Traditional salted and smoked pork aged to perfection.
• Pinikpikan – A local chicken dish prepared with a unique, tribal cooking method.
• Kini-ing – Thinly sliced smoked meat, usually from carabao or pork.
• Inanchila – Native sticky rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves.

Pair these with mountain-grown coffee or local rice wine (tapey) for the full experience!

• Lang-ay Festival (April) – A week-long celebration of Cordillera unity, peace pacts, and indigenous culture. Street parades, dances, tribal games, and chants flood the streets in a festive spirit!
• Ayyoweng Festival – Celebrates harvest and ancestral traditions with rituals, storytelling, and vibrant native music.

Traditional Igorot music fills the air during festivals and rituals. Expect gangsa (brass gongs), bamboo flutes, and rhythmic chants. Each beat carries stories of warriors, spirits, and ancestors.

• Ethnographic treasures and tribal history
• Serene and sacred Maligcong Rice Terraces
• Gateway to Mount Province adventures
• Home of the Ifontok tribe
• Peace pacts, headhunter tales, and rich oral traditions
• Authentic mountain cuisine and native rituals