Nunungan

Welcome to Nunungan, Lanao del Norte’s mystical mountain town where the clouds kiss the hills and legends ripple through the waters of Lake Nunungan. Known as the “Switzerland of Lanao”, this peaceful upland municipality is blessed with cool climate, scenic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and a rich Maranao heritage that lives on through tradition, taste, and tales.

Perched over 700 meters above sea level, Nunungan boasts breathtaking views, pine-lined ridges, and untouched natural wonders. It’s a nature lover’s dream and an adventure-seeker’s playground – all rolled into one quiet, culture-rich destination.

• Lake Nunungan – A serene and sacred lake surrounded by myths, mountains, and mist
• Kalilangan Ridge – Offers scenic trekking with panoramic valley views
• Liwed Spring and Waterfalls – Hidden gems perfect for a refreshing escape
• Cold Springs of Barangay Katubuan – Chilling and thrilling natural pools
• Agri-Eco Farms and Highland Trails – Connect with nature and local life

Nunungan is a Maranao stronghold, known for its Islamic culture, colorful okir designs, and strong sense of community honor (maratabat). Visitors will find torogans (royal houses), colorful malongs, and locals who are proud keepers of age-old customs, dances, and chants.

The majority of locals speak Maranao, the melodic language of the Lake Lanao people. Cebuano, Filipino, and English are also used for wider communication, especially in schools and trade.

Prepare to eat like a datu with these signature dishes:

• Palapa – A spicy ginger-onion condiment that lights up any dish
• Beef Randang (Maranao Rendang) – Slow-cooked, coconut-rich and full of spice
• Tinorok – Highland chicken cooked in bamboo
• Tiyulah Itum – Black soup made from burnt coconut, smoky and aromatic
• Piaparan a Manok – Chicken stewed in coconut with turmeric and chili
• All meals in Nunungan are proudly halal, with ingredients sourced fresh from farms and forest.

Nunungan celebrates Araw ng Nunungan in September, featuring Muslim cultural presentations, kulintang music, agri-trade fairs, and sports competitions. It’s a beautiful blend of tradition, modernity, and community pride, welcoming all with open hearts and festive flair.

Hear the beat of the kulintang and dabakan during tribal dances, or the gentle lull of bayok, the Maranao poetic chant. Traditional music plays a key role during weddings, festivals, and prayers -making every note a thread in the cultural fabric.

• The enchanting Lake Nunungan
• Cool highland weather and peaceful rural vibe
• Deep-rooted Maranao culture and traditions
• Halal food experiences and spicy delicacies
• Trekking, waterfalls, and natural spring escapes