Mt. Kabunian Dayhike Guide

Introduction

Mt. Kabunian is a popular hiking destination in the municipality of Bakun in the province of Benguet. It is one of the three mountains that make up the Bakun Trio. The other two mountains that make up the Bakun Trio are Mt. Tenglawan in Barangay Poblacion and Mt. Patullok which is located at Lobo, Poblacion and is the easiest to hike and the highest mountain composing the Bakun Trio. Mt. Kabunian has an elevation of 1789 meters above sea level or 5869 feet. It is a sacred mountain in Bakun and it’s often called the “Home of the Sky God Kabunian”.

According to its history, Mt. Kabunian is named after the highest deity or goddess of the Kankanaey myth named Apo Kabunian. Born of the skyworld, this Igorot God was held to be the father of lesser gods and mankind. Locals believed Kabunian resides in this mountain and locals pray to Apo Kabunian to bless their harvest abundantly and significantly. For this reason, it is a very sanctified mountain for Igorots. Over the uncountable years, Mt. Kabunian rocky mountainside is the place of the burial ground and century-old wooden box coffins by the Igorot. However, in the year 2020, some parts of it has been damaged by mountain goats. For this reason, local and tourism officials visit the mountain in April 2021 and renovate and build fences to preserve the culture of Kankanaey and refrain animals to destroy the historic and iconic trademark. On January 13, 2023, Bakun Mayor Bill Raymundo and Poblacion Punong Barangay Osias Mateo Jr and other personnel and officials of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bakun as well as the officials of Barangay Poblacion hiked Mt. Kabunian as part of the opening of the challenging and beautiful mountain trail to all visitors and also to boost tourism in Bakun.

The main highlight of Mt. Kabunian is the Tekdag Camsit trail or also known as the stairway to heaven for mountaineers because it rewards mountaineers with a feeling of ascending to the sky. According to the native locals, Tekdag Camsit is a Kankanaey term, “tekdag” means fell and Camsit is the name of an ancient person here in Barangay Poblacion. Tekdag Camsit is the name of the trail because a long time ago there is a person whose name is Camsit, who is holding a pounding threshed rice to become a bowl of rice. Camsit was alone that time to get rice threshing at the stairway to the heaven of Mt. Kabunian. From there, Camsit fell to the bottom side of the mountain, and the native Kankanaey believed it has become a skeleton as the years goes by as they couldn’t get his body. For this reason, Tekdag Camsit was named in honor of the memory of Camsit who died here on the stairway to heaven of Mt. Kabunian because the terrain here is not yet fenced or had a safety railing on both sides in the ancient time like it is now.

Anyway, Mt. Kabunian is now accepting tourists and mountaineers coming from different parts of the world. So if you’re looking for a hiking challenge and see one of the most exciting and picturesque mountain trails in the Philippines then Mt. Kabunian is worth the try.

Name: Mt. Kabunian
Difficulty: 5/9
Jump-Off: Barangay Poblacion, Bakun, Benguet
Hours to summit: 4 to 5 hours
Features: unique landscape and panoramic view of the whole Bakun region in Benguet

My adventure to Mt. Kabunian

It’s been quite a while since I do hiking in Benguet province in the past year. For this reason, I miss hiking already and I want to tell myself that I need a well-deserved break after a tiring schedule. So on Saturday evening in the past week, I look up in the mountaineering group on Facebook and saw a lot of hiking events scheduled in Benguet. After a while, I have chosen the tour that I will be joining and the tour organizer named Lynn gave me the complete details about the upcoming climb on Sunday in Bakun, Benguet.

It was 8:43 pm on Saturday when I arrived at our pick-up point in Greenfield District in Mandaluyong City to meet the tour organizer and the rest of the group. After all the group members have already arrived at the designated pick-up point our private van started rolling towards Benguet past 9:39 pm.

After passing the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), our driver takes the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX). From this point, I wanted to sleep but the music playing inside the van are the songs of Air Supply and Michael Learns to Rock which are two of my favorite bands. For this reason, I stayed awake all night because of the soft rock songs which are good for my hearing.

Anyway, we have a stopover at Leeza’s Restaurant in Sison Pangasinan around 12 am. So I took the opportunity to have a midnight snack where I buy four tupig which is so yummy. We stay at Leeza’s Restaurant for 47 minutes.

Fast forward, we arrived at Bakun around 4 am but unfortunately, the Waze app showed a different path to our driver so we take a very narrow one-way road. At some point, we have to walk our way for 700 meters in a very cold temperature in order for our van to pass through. For this reason, we arrived at the registration point at Bakun municipality around 5 am after nine hours of land travel.

Later we reached Barangay Poblacion at 6:20 am and our group fill up the operation center logbook. After that, the two mountain guides named Miriam and Jake were introduced to us. While I was at the jump-off point, I recall in my mind the popular manga series called Naruto because I was staring at the rocky face mountain view that is very similar to Hokage Rock mountain in Naruto. According to Jake, the name of this mountain is called Mt. Gedgedayan. A few minutes later Miriam leads the short thanksgiving and intercession in the Kankanaey language and after that, we have a group picture taken. We started hiking around 6:58 am.

The introductory trail run on a cemented pathway passing some local houses. Afterward, the trail becomes lengthy downstairs in a lush green forest for almost twenty-five minutes. Then we need to pass the first hanging bridge which has a length of 12 meters. At this point this is the most electrifying hanging bridge crossing I’ve ever experienced because of its height and especially when I looked down, I almost thought what if the bridge suddenly collapsed?

Nevertheless, we pass the first test and the trail becomes a continuous moderate ascending on the mountainside with lots of pine trees. At this point, I think nature is when I feel most at home because despite how busy life may get, I always take time to relax, be calm and spend time being in touch with mother Earth at its best. In my opinion, there’s something magical while hiking, I feel nature is the purest portal to my inner peace so I never stop appreciating it.

Anyway, we rest for a short period of time and I found out that one of my fellow hikers is already 55 years old and she is a girl that already summited major mountains in Northern Luzon such as Mt. Amuyao and Mt. Napulauan. For this reason, I’m amazed because she looks younger than his age and still has the passion to pursue things that she loves which include outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

In spite of everything, after two hours of hiking passing some hanging bridges, junctions, and railing portions situated on a mountainside, our group already reach the middle section of the mountain. From there, we take a much-needed rest and eat our trail food at the small resting station. While resting we have a conversation about the mountains we climbed before and our experiences.

After that, we continue hiking and the trail is become an open trail with fewer trees to cover us from the direct heat of the sun. For this reason, I wear a cap and open my umbrella to have protection for my dark skin. Later, while ascending I’m sweating already so I stop for a few minutes to catch my breath on a vast open trail.

It was 9:25 am when we reached the high railing portion place on the mountainside of Mt. Kabunian. From there, we stop for a moment to take unforgettable pictures and videos with a beautiful background of a rocky wall section which is very similar to the mountains located in Kibungan, Benguet. From my perspective, this is the best angle to take splendid photos.

Afterward, we reach the section that has a safety fence on both sides in the trickiest trail called the stairway to heaven. We take individual pictures before we started to do the uphill climb as we considered it the most valuable resource of memories we will have on this very challenging mountain trail with a perpendicular abyss on either side. Without a doubt, nothing beats the experience of hiking this unique and jaw-dropping terrain. It looks like we were passing in the middle of the nose-like trail because both sides are very dangerous.

Then I have a short conversation with our mountain guide. According to our guide, in the past years, there was an incident with a tourist who dropped his cell phone in the ravine and was unable to recover it because he went over the fence and went to the side while taking pictures and videos on the stairway to heaven section of Mt. Kabunian.

Then after we pass the stairway to heaven, we take a much-needed rest under the shade of the huge tree. We eat our trail food, take impressive pictures and videos and share laughter. Then our guide told us that the summit of Mt. Kabunian will take one hour even though it looked within reach to me. So we decided to keep going towards the rocky face of Mt. Kabunian and we pass another steel hanging bridge. Then we have to be very attentive to our footsteps as the trail becomes steeper. Afterward, with my full determination and excitement to reach the summit, I passed the test on the grueling trail that requires a high level of fitness and endurance.

We reached the summit of Mt. Kabunian around 11:35 am and I take my much-needed lunch. From here we cherish and treasure the breathtaking and rewarding view of Bakun that I will never forget as we have a very good clearing at the top of the mountain. We can even see from distance the carrot peak of Mt. Tenglawan from the right side and Mt. Patullok (also known as Mt. Lubo) to our left side. We relax, enjoy the surroundings and let the chill vibe come to us while the mountain breeze is so refreshing. Then we have our group picture taken at the summit signage of Mt. Kabunian.

We started to descend around 12:23 pm and we did a backtrail. After some time, just below the summit, I refill my empty water bottle with fresh water with the help of the guide.

On the way down, Jake pointed to us the ancient burial site of Kankanaey just below the massive rocky mountainside. After that, we saw several groups of hikers on their way up and we greeted them good afternoon. Then in the middle of the descent, he told me that the big mountain erosion we see from afar was caused by the powerful earthquake that struck Abra and its neighboring province which includes Benguet during the past year (2022).

At 1:52 pm we have a quick rest again at the resting station and have a short conversation regarding the biking trails outside of Metro Manila. After that, it’s a continuous descending on the mountainside until we reach the nerve-wracking hanging bridge past 3 pm. Then the trail becomes flat and I have a short talk with Jake regarding the rainy season in this mountain, according to him, Mt. Kabunian and Mt. Gedgedayan turns into crying mountain as there are diverse falls cascading down their steep mountain slopes which truly a sight to behold for visitors.

At 3:12 pm we started the assault along the concrete upstairs which literally make us run out of gas because of the very lengthy trail. We had to stop and rest every twenty-five steps. It feels like part two of the stairway to heaven assault. Nevertheless, at 3:55 pm we finally reach the side of the basketball court which marks the endpoint of the entire day hike. For the last time, I take one more picture of the unique surrounding I’ve ever been to. Then I order a burger sandwich and mountain dew at one of the sari-sari stores in Barangay Poblacion to feed my hungry soul and exhausted body.

Our group finished the day hike in Mt. Kabunian in nine hours and I thank our mountain guide. After that, I take a bath and found out that the water here is super freaking cold even though it’s sunny, and it’s very comparable to the water in Mt. Ulap. After all the group members tidy up we logged out. We left Barangay Poblacion at 5:08 pm and we have all smiles on our faces. Then inside the van, we have the warm glow of the scenic dark orange setting sun as we bid goodbye to Bakun. Without a doubt, this day hike is an unforgettable and once-in-a-lifetime experience for all of us. Everything was worthwhile.

We have our post-climb dinner at Ivander Kambingan restaurant in Pugo, La Union at 9:40 pm. Then after nearly four hours of fast and furious land travel, we arrived at Quezon City safe and sound at 1:37 am. I want to thank my fellow hiker who shares their trail food and water during the hike and along the way. I want to thank Lynn for organizing this significant dayhike event and for our professional driver. In addition, I want to thank Anissa Bianca (aka “Nadine”) for taking pictures with me and I want to thank all the group members that made this hike extraordinary and unforgettable. Above all, I thank God the Almighty for giving us strength, and courage and for keeping us safe throughout the climb, long road trip, and for coming home safe. All in all, my adventure to Mt. Kabunian sums up this beautiful life quote “Enjoy life and always be thankful.”

Sample itinerary to Mt. Kabunian

7:30PM – Assembly at Mayflower Parking in Greenfield District in Mandaluyong City
8PM – Departure going to Bakun, Benguet
5AM – Arrive at Bakun, registration
6AM – Arrive at Barangay Poblacion
6:30AM – Start hiking
11AM – At the summit of Mt. Kabunian
12PM – Start descending
3:30PM – At the Barangay Hall of Poblacion in Bakun, rest, wash up, and take afternoon meals
5PM – Departure going back to Mandaluyong, dinner along the way

Things to bring on your visit to Mt. Kabunian:

Pocket money
Trail food such as eggs, coconut macaroons, crackers, jelly ace, bread, and nuts
Hiking sandals or shoes
Hiking clothes and pants
Umbrella
Jacket or windbreaker
1.5 liters of water
Arm sleeves (optional)
Cap (optional)
Disposable raincoat or disposable rain poncho (during the rainy season)
Small towel, shampoo, and bathing soap
Rehydration salt or table salt (optional to relieve cramps)
Whistle (optional)
Mobile phone and camera
Personal medicine

How to Go to Mt. Kabunian  

1. From the Cubao bus terminal in Quezon City, ride a regular aircon bus bound for Baguio City.
2. From Baguio City, ride a chartered jeep going to Bakun Municipal Hall.
   
   
   
   

Reminders and Tips:

• Mt. Kabunian is a major climb that has a difficulty of 5/9 with lots of steep ascents and it’s not recommended for beginners with a fear of heights or someone who hasn’t experienced climbing a mountain before. It will take hikers approximately four to five hours to reach the summit. The total hours to and from the summit could take up to nine hours at normal pacing. So prepare and condition yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally one week before visiting this mountain because safety first is the number one priority when hiking through Mt. Kabunian’s difficult and very steep narrow trail. 

• The registration fee in Mt. Kabunian is 240 pesos per head. Meanwhile, the guide fee is 1000 pesos which is good for a group consisting of six people. 

• Please note that doing a jump shot on the stairway to heaven trail is not recommended and it’s prohibited, just do the jump shot post at the summit marker.

• Just pack light but don’t forget to bring all the essential things for hiking.

• Don’t leave your trash anywhere on the mountain trail and put your trash in a designated trash can or you can keep it in your pockets, backpack, and plastic bag.

• Pray to God for guidance before you leave your house to go on a long road trip and hiking trip.

• One of the best pieces of advice I can give to tourists who are going to climb Mt. Kabunian is to be careful when hiking, you should always hold on to the railings so that unfortunate events won’t happen because it’s hard if you fall off the cliff, you’re dead and remember you only have one life, so we should take care of our lives.

• Last but not least, check first the weather forecast in Benguet or Cordillera region before going on a day hike trip. Also, don’t underestimate the mountain, always keep your eyes on where your feet go and always be cautious while hiking to avoid falling down on the cliff or any accident.
  
  
  

There you have it, hiker and outdoor lover. You must go on an adventure to find out where you truly belong. In addition, never regret a day in your life because good days give satisfaction, bad days give you experience, worst days give you life lessons and the finest days give memories. Feel free to share this blog with your friends or group and have a nice day to you.