Sablan

Tucked between La Trinidad and the lowlands of Ilocos and Pangasinan, Sablan, Benguet is a peaceful upland town known as the “Fruit Basket of Benguet”. With its scenic highlands, gentle climate, and laid-back lifestyle, Sablan is the kind of place that whispers serenity while still bursting with flavor and life.

Sablan is a mix of mountains, farmlands, and cool forest patches. Travelers heading to Baguio City from the lowlands often pass through its scenic routes without realizing the treasures hidden within. If you’re after a road less traveled, Sablan offers green views, cold rivers, and authentic Cordilleran charm.

• Sablan Fruit Stands – A symbol of the town! Local vendors line the highway with fresh bananas, pineapples, mangoes, and more. It’s a literal highway harvest!
• Bayabas River – A nature-lover’s delight, perfect for a quiet dip or picnic.
• Pappa Hills – Breathtaking viewpoints where you can watch the sunrise over rolling hills.
• Bagong Bridge & Waterfalls – A rustic escape for those who love hiking, nature, and photoshoots.

Sablan is home to the Kankanaey and Ibaloi peoples, proud Indigenous communities who have preserved their customs and traditions through centuries. Most residents speak Ilocano, Kankanaey, and Ibaloi, with Tagalog and English also widely used. The culture here is steeped in highland hospitality, strong community bonds, and deep respect for the land.

What’s a trip to Sablan without a fruit binge? Aside from juicy pineapples and mangoes, try local treats like:

• Inasin (salted pork)
• Pinikpikan – a traditional Igorot chicken dish
• Freshly made tapey (fermented rice wine) during special gatherings

Don’t forget to pair it with mountain coffee brewed the traditional way!

Held every September, the Sablan Fruit Festival is a joyful showcase of the town’s bountiful harvest. Expect street parades, fruit-themed booths, agri-trade fairs, cultural dances, and of course, fruit-eating contests. It’s a colorful celebration that highlights Sablan’s pride in agriculture and unity.

Local music here is a blend of Cordilleran gongs, native chants, and modern acoustic sounds. During community gatherings or festivals, traditional dances accompanied by gangsa (gongs) echo through the hills, a sound that instantly connects visitors to the ancestral soul of the region.

• Premium highland fruits
• Peaceful eco-tourism potential
• Uncommercialized mountain life
• Gateway to both La Trinidad and Pangasinan
• Homegrown traditions and Indigenous heritage