Known to house a statue of Jesus Christ that resembles the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Mt. Zion Pilgrimage Mountain is established within the hills of Bugallon and is an expansive area where visitors can rest and meditate. There are statues depicting the different stations of the cross scattered across the vicinity and one other in honor of the Virgin Mary. A chapel can also be found in the area where visitors can reflect in solemn peace and tranquility.
As Besay Falls requires an hour or two hike, visitors are strongly encouraged to hire a local tour guide before traveling there. Due to its remote location, the beauty of the falls is pure in that, there are no surrounding obstructions that may jeopardize it. Though midway the hike, a tree house was built for travelers to rest and refresh themselves.
One of the oldest churches in Pangasinan, the Our Lady of Purification Parish Church has been standing in Binmaley since 1627. The church was first managed by the Dominicans until 1898 before it was taken over by the Diocesan clergy until 1932. The compound is spacious so that anyone could take long walks and appreciate the solemn heritage that the mere existence of the church exudes.
Situated near the center of the municipality of Binmaley, the Binmaley Beach is easily accessible and is considered to be one of the cleanest and most scenic beaches in Pangasinan. Aside from swimming, visitors can also take motorboat rides being offered by local fishermen who rent out their boats for such tourist activities. Visitors can also try surfing or simply swim in the usually calm waters of the beach.
Regarded as the only church in the town of Aguilar, the St. Joseph the Patriarch Parish Church is quite noticeable with its pink exterior. Its original bells from 1886 still ring to this day with proper renovations and preservation. The church also handles the elementary and high schools surrounding it.
A 20-30 minute drive uphill will lead visitors to the quiet Mapita View Deck where the beauty of Pangasinan will humbly unfold before them: acres upon acres of lush greens, mountain silhouettes painting a backdrop of endless azure, scattered clouds lazily passing as though in rhythm with the fresh provincial breeze, and sunshine coloring every surface an extra vibrant hue. Another quick hike uphill will give visitors a 360-degree view of the surrounding areas and the town of Aguilar below.
Though the park is still being developed, visitors can journey to one of its 12 lagoons. Visitors should be prepared for a one-hour trek to get to the first lagoon, which holds the highest waterfalls out of the other twelve. Water that streams down from the surrounding mountains cascades to one waterfall leading to another.
One of Sual’s famous tourist spots is its Dried Fish Market where visitors can get free taste samples of their dried octopus and squid, as well as dried fish varieties like espada, daing and tuyo. Bangus or milk fish is also bountiful in Sual and is considered as the town’s main aqua-culture product. The vendors are extremely nice and ready to assist customers. Buying in bulk might also merit considerable discounts.
Constructed in the 1880’s, this Roman Catholic church and its convent have withstood countless challenges from Mother Nature and damages sustained from colonial conflicts. The structure’s design is resonant of the post-Baroque style which was deftly preserved after being reconstructed at least three times since its establishment.
Similar to its neighbour the Cabalitian island, the Baybay North White Beach is also unoccupied by commercial establishments. Instead, it is inhabited by amiable locals who are ever ready to share stories and island culture. The laidback atmosphere on the island will definitely rejuvenate visitors who wanted to take a break from their busy lives.
On the boat ride to Cabalitian Island, visitors will see the town’s 750 fish cages that produce approximately 45,000 milk fish per year. The Sual Power Station, which is the country’s largest coal power plant, can also be seen along the way to the island. Aside from swimming, visitors can also go hiking and caving on the island, where picturesque rock formations and the captivating Limahong Cave can be easily accessed.
An ideal location for hot summer days, the Balincaguin River is open to everyone at any time of any day. There has been news of a Swim-Bike-Row tour being developed but until then, visitors are free to lounge about and relax.
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