Legend says Mt. Kalugong was not always called with its present name. It was called as “tayawan” by the first settlers of Tawang, La Trinidad. (For more info about the legend you can read it in Sunstar) Now however, present residents says it is called “Mt. Kalugong” because of the hat shaped stone of the highest rock formation.
Mt. Kalugong is owned by the former Atok councilor Norma Pablo and son. By the vison and dream of Ms. Pablo, quote: “It has been my dream to set up an eco-park since the 1980’s”. The family refused to sell the land despite various offers. They begun to seriously develop the land on 2010.
As of the date this is published Mt. Kalugong is still being developed to offer best accommodations and native cuisines.
- Go in-front of Julie’s Bakery, Magsaysay. Ride TOMAY or CAMP DANGWA jeepney.
- Tell the driver to drop you at the entrance to Mt. Kalugong in Cruz. It is near Francis RestoBar if you search google maps.
- The entrance there is a steep road going up. Just follow the main road straight and don’t go left or right.
- When you pass the gate continue walking.
- You will be lead to a two way road follow the road going up and then the cemented road should stop.
- There is a stairway made of steels. There will be a “WELCOME” sign posted the entrance. Go up until the summit.
- Walk to the right see if it is open and pay the entrance fee.
- Done. You can stay however you want. (I’m not sure about overnight though, you can contact them on their fb page)
- Entrance Fee: 100/person (this is the fee on the date this is published)
- Jeepney Fair : Fare is 17 per person one trip from Baguio to Cruz, La Trinidad
- Food and Beverage (Optional) : they range from 100 – 200 per serving no combo discount.
- For example: you want to buy lemonade and cake you will probably spend 250 or more. So I advice you to bring your own water, drink, snack or food.
- Bring shoes with thick soles.
- Wear jacket incase it will fog and to protect your skin from sharp rocks.
- Visit in summer. Increases the chance of seeing the view and avoiding rain and fog.
- Camera. To preserve memories.
- Courage. To truly enjoy the place. You needed to try walking on top of the rocks. (Caution: dangerous not for kids)
- Aside from the above this is also good for dating, picnic, seminars, meetings and church gathering. They have a hall, tables and cottages.
- Lastly. I recommend this for ages 15 and above.
– Andre Gide