Banahaw

Another popular destination, specially during the Lent period, is Mount Banahaw, an extinct volcano which rises 2,100 meters above sea level.

Banahaw towers over the southeastern towns of Laguna and Quezon. Revered as a mystical mountain, Banahaw has become a sanctuary for different religious cults. Up on Banahaw's leafy slopes live members of various religious sects who adhere to what seems to be a mixture of Catholicism, Buddhism, the cabala, animism and other forms of pagan worship. Down below, in the foothill towns, dwell amulet-makers, soothsayers, faith healers, diviners and dedicated UFO watchers.

Banahaw comes alive during the Lent when various religious sects re-enact the passion of Jesus Christ. People ascend to Mount Banahaw to experience its cool weather, bathe in its hot springs or simply stand amazed at the sight of nature's beauty.

Mount Banahaw can be reached from both east and west. From the east, the ascent starts in Lucban, Quezon, while from the west, in Dolores, Laguna. For both climbs, it is advisable to have a guide to ensure a safe trip.

Where to stay?
Whether Lucban is just a daytrip for most people coming from Manila because of the lack of accommodation, it is probably best to contact the Pahiyas Festival website for referrals for places to stay in Lucban. Lucban, like Kalibo in Aklan has a similar boomtown character (although Kalibo does have more places to stay).

The Patio Rizal Hotel (+63.42.5402107) on the main street of Quezon Avenue has 18 rooms with 1 VIP suite and is amongst the most recommended places to stay in Lucban. As a tip, book your room possibly a year in advance if you plan to stay overnight during the festival. It is basically a stone’s throw away from the church where the procession basically starts and ends.

How to get to Banahaw?
Take a bus from Kamuning JAM Bus Terminal “LUCENA BOUND” if you are in Quezon City or near the area.
Cost is P158.50 to TIAONG MARKET (new)

From LRT-BUENDIA JAM BUS TERMINAL “LUCENA BOUND” if you are in Makati or near the area.
Cost is: P150. to TIAONG MARKET (new)

GET OFF IN TIAONG MARKET (new)

Walk across towards the road that leads to the public market & go to the jeepney terminal at the back of the market (left side) that goes to Dolores.
Cost: P13

Tell the jeepney driver to drop you off in the area of Electra Crushing plant near kilometer 99. You will see the sign PARKS OF STUDY AND REFLECTION, BANAHAW in Barangay Dagatan, Quezon Provincial road.

Your landmark before approaching the Park would be kilometer 99 so watch out for this & remind the jeepney driver to drop you off in Barangay Dagatan.