Kalinga Tourist Spots: Where to Go, Eat, and Stay
Planning your next lakwatsa? If you're looking for adventure, culture, and a story to tell your future apo, then Kalinga tourist spots are your next big thing. You’ll laugh, you’ll sweat, and yes, make new memories.
Let’s explore everything this underrated gem of the North has to offer!
What Makes Kalinga Tourist Spots So Special?
Located in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Kalinga Province is known for its fierce warriors, rich tribal culture, and, of course, the iconic Apo Whang-Od. But it’s not just history that’ll blow you away. It’s the fresh air, the mountain views, and the feeling that you’re living in a different world.
Kalinga Province comprises one city and seven municipalities. These include Tabuk City and the municipalities of Balbalan, Lubuagan, Pasil, Pinukpuk, Rizal, Tanudan, and Tinglayan.
Map of Kalinga Province
Each of these areas contributes to the rich cultural and natural diversity of Kalinga, Philippines, making it a top spot for off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Top Tourist Spots in Kalinga You Shouldn’t Miss
Kalinga tourist spots are a mix of the ancient and the adventurous. Here are the top tourist destinations in Kalinga Province.
Buscalan Village and Apo Whang-Od
This is the crown jewel of Kalinga tourist spots. Apo Whang-Od is a living legend, the last mambabatok of her generation. The Buscalan tattoo she offers is a heritage passed down through generations.
Apo Whang Od is located in Buscalan, a quiet village in Tinglayan. To get there, you’ll need to hike. You’ll be walking on narrow trails, crossing rivers, and trying not to slip on the mud.
Once you arrive, Apo Whang-Od greets you with a smile and her thorn needle. Choose an Apo Whang Od tattoo design that speaks to you. Many locals choose the 3 dots tattoo. The 3 dots tattoo meaning Apo Whang Od gives is simple: it represents you, your journey, and your future.
Tinglayan Rice Terraces
Forget about the Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao Province. Tinglayan’s rice terraces include Bugnay Rice Terraces and Buscalan Rice Terraces. They are less touristy but just as Insta-worthy. They're sculpted into the mountains with care and tradition. We suggest that you go during the planting or harvesting season for the full cinematic effect.
Chico River Whitewater Rafting
Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism
The Chico River offers wild rapids and stunning views. If you love adrenaline, this is the Kalinga tourist spot for you. Just remember to dry off with your IslaDry travel bath towel after the ride. It dries fast and packs small, so you can easily stuff it inside your backpack.
Tabuk City: Urban Meets Tribal Charm
While most people head straight to the mountains, Tabuk City deserves some love, too. As the capital of Kalinga Province, it’s your entry point to many tourist spots in Kalinga.
First up, the Capitol Grounds. You can chill under the trees or people-watch. Then there's St. William's Cathedral, a beautiful church with history embedded in its walls. If you’re into unique architecture, don’t skip it.
Then, visit museums like the Gallamoy Mini Museum and Orchard Garden and get a quick crash course on the area’s tribal history. If you’re into local markets, the Tabuk Public Market offers fresh produce, native fabrics, and sometimes, odd finds like dried frogs.
Other Tourist Spots in Kalinga
■ Malalao Hills
■ Nambaran Artistic Tomb
■ Bantay Fruit Basket
■ Naneng Heritage Village
■ Gessang Tunnel
■ Patiking Tunnel
■ Cannao Bridge
■ Bangabanga Matambong Falls
■ Dalimuno Park
■ Awichon Cultural Village
■ Sleeping Beauty Mountain
■ Mount Binuluan
Where to Stay in Kalinga: Hotels and Homestays in Kalinga
Kalinga hotels come in many flavors. If you want something budget-friendly or more luxurious, you’ve got options.
Top Hotels in Kalinga
■ Grand Zion Garden Resort Hotel
■ Davidson Hotel and Restaurant
Homestays Near Buscalan
If you're planning to get inked, stay overnight in Buscalan. Locals open their homes to tourists. It’s a real taste of mountain life: cold nights, no signal, and rice for every meal.
Simple? Yes. Memorable? Definitely. Just don’t expect 5-star service.
Tip: Bring your own travel bath towel here. Most homestays, Airbnbs, budget accommodations, and transients in Kalinga don’t provide toiletries and towels. Make sure to have all your travel essentials ready with you.
Where to Eat in Kalinga
Kalinga food is comfort food. It’s simple, filling, and perfect after a long hike. When in Kalinga, try the Kalinga Rice and Meat Combo. It’s earthy, nutty, and makes every ulam taste better. Eat it with igado, pinikpikan, or etag (smoked meat), and pair it with mountain coffee.
For a food trip, go to Jam’s Restaurant or Greenwoods in Tabuk.
How to Get to Kalinga
From Manila, take a bus to Tabuk City via Victory Liner or Florida Bus. Travel time is around 10–12 hours. Pack your patience and bring road trip essentials.
You can also fly to Tuguegarao and ride a van to Tabuk. From there, ride jeepneys or hire a habal-habal to reach the more remote tourist spots in Kalinga.
Joiners' Tours to Buscalan from Manila
Don’t have a squad? Joiner tours got you. There are many travel groups on Facebook organizing trips to Buscalan and other Kalinga tourist spots for a weekend getaway. You don’t even have to plan. Just pay and show up.
Kalinga Tourist Spots Are Waiting for You
So, are you ready to explore Kalinga Province? No matter where you go, be it Tabuk tourist spots or remote villages, you’ll find something to take home. Maybe it’s a story. Maybe it's a 3 dots tattoo meaning Apo Whang Od gave you personally. Maybe it's just peace of mind.
One thing’s for sure. Kalinga tourist spots will leave a permanent mark on your soul (and maybe your skin, too).
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