🌄 Tuba
Tucked in the scenic embrace of the Cordillera Mountains lies Tuba, Benguet, the “Gateway to Baguio City” and a paradise for nature lovers, thrill seekers, and culture enthusiasts. Just a zigzag away from the busy streets of Baguio via Kennon Road, Tuba welcomes you with jaw-dropping cliffs, gushing rivers, historic tunnels, and warm Ibaloi hospitality.
🗺️ Where Mountain Meets Adventure
Tuba serves as a dramatic entry point to the Benguet highlands. It’s the home of Kennon Road, famous for its hairpin curves and the iconic Lion’s Head that roars at motorists entering Baguio. But beyond that landmark, Tuba’s charm unfolds through unspoiled natural wonders like Asin Hot Springs, Mount Santo Tomas, Twin Peaks, and the enchanting Bridal Veil Falls.
🏞️ Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Tuba
- Lion’s Head along Kennon Road
- Asin Hot Springs in Barangay Nangalisan
- Mount Santo Tomas View Deck
- Badiwan Viaduct for scenic highway views
- Colorado Falls and Paterno Cave
- Tadiangan and Nangalisan Hydro Hot Springs
Each location promises Instagram-worthy shots and a breath of crisp mountain air.
🎭 Culture & Language
The dominant ethnic group in Tuba is the Ibaloi tribe, known for their peaceful and communal way of life. Their language, Ibaloi, is still widely spoken, along with Ilocano, Tagalog, and English. Tuba’s culture blends Cordilleran traditions with modern-day lifestyle, keeping its roots grounded in ancestral rituals and values.
🍲 Local Food Trip Delight
You haven’t truly visited Tuba if you haven’t tried:
- Etag (salt-cured smoked pork)
- Pinikpikan (beaten chicken soup with native flair)
- Fresh vegetables straight from upland farms
- Tuba’s local coffee and tapey (fermented rice wine)
Hearty, earthy, and always served with genuine smiles from the locals!
🎉 Festivals That Celebrate the Soul
- Adivay Festival (Benguet-wide): Held every November, showcasing ethnic pride, indigenous games, and agro-tourism.
- Tuba Foundation Day: A colorful celebration of the municipality’s founding, featuring street dancing, trade fairs, and community sports.
These events are perfect to witness traditional attire, gong music, and tribal dance.
🎶 Music of the Mountains
Music in Tuba includes Cordilleran instruments like gongs, bamboo flutes, and indigenous chants called ba-di. The younger generation blends tradition with acoustic and reggae influences, mountain beats meet modern rhythm.
🌟 What Tuba is Known For
- The Lion’s Head landmark
- Being the southern gateway to Baguio
- Kennon Road’s scenic drive
- Hidden hot springs and waterfalls
- Eco-tourism and cultural heritage
- Cool, highland air with panoramic views
