Hello reader! Last time, I recounted the essentials for this pine-lined town. Today, I’ll walk you through some of the beautiful locations I had the pleasure of excursioning. This UNESCO Creative City is teeming with interesting locales, a few of which are described below. Shall we?

Igorot Stone Kingdom

Photos by me and barqs94

Address: 362 Longlong Road, Pinsao Proper

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 6 AM to 6 PM

Entrance fee: P100

Igorot Stone Kingdom was born from childhood fantasies in the Mountain Province and stories of the first Igorot people, as shown through the 6,000-square meter park, crafted from stone walls akin to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Banaue rice terraces.

It was a good walk (and climb) around the space with its hidden nooks and crannies. The place can get very crowded, so it’s best to avoid peak hours. There is also a food court at the top of the fortress where I first tried tanghulu or Chinese candied fruits. At the plaza, an Igorot troupe dances to the clangs of the gongs.

This site is just a few minutes walk from Tam-Awan Village, which I’ll talk about next.

Tam-awan Village

Photos by me and barqs94

Address: 366-C Pinsao Proper

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 6 PM

Entrance fee: P100

I love being enveloped by lush greenery and flowing water. I’ve been to Tam-awan Village years ago, but coming back still gives me that calm and relaxing feeling. This mountainside trail is dotted by different Cordillera huts and statues. By the stairway entrance, you are greeted by a gallery housing works of local artists, a shop selling native products, and a quaint cafe serving hearty meals, just what you need after a hike around the property. If you’re lucky, you can get a good Tam-awan, or vantage point, of the West Philippine Sea. Unfortunately, the trail leading to that panorama was slippery, so it was closed off when we were there.

Ili-Likha Artists’ Village

Photos by barqs94

Address: 32 Assumption Road

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10 AM to 7 PM

Film director Kidlat Tahimik created this whimsical borough for Baguio artists and social advocates to thrive. Literally a “village of makers”, Ili-Likha offers vibrant kiosks and quirky boutiques for anyone who wanders through this treehouse. Wait until you reach the basement where film screenings are held. Be sure to explore each corner and discover the magic from this cozy abode.

Baguio Botanical Garden

Photos by me and barqs94

Address: 37 Leonard Wood Rd

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 7 AM to 6 PM

Entrance fee: P100

F L O W E R S. This was just heaven. I love my emeralds but I adore my pinks and violets. We went here late afternoon and basked in the cool breeze and the gentle sunlight. The garden has several distinct sections you wouldn’t want to miss. Orchids, hydrangeas, bamboos, and pines, among other lovely plants, receive each visitor with open arms. The park is sprawling so be ready to walk for a few hours; the view is worth every step.

What do you think?

What’s on your Baguio bucket list? Share in the comments below.

Remember. Reminisce. Reflect.

Salamisim out.