Places to Visit in Nueva Vizcaya
Hailed as the citrus capital of the Philippines, Nueva Vizcaya is such a spectacular sight to behold. Like elsewhere in the country, it is a haven filled with hospitable natives, delectable cuisines, and a million-dollar worth of precious memories waiting to be unlocked. Aside from being the lowland Baguio, as most travelers call it due to its soothing climate aided by its position on the national map, it is home to several relieving spots that will make you fall in love with the province every day.
With that said, here are seven enchanted wonders of the province that you may want to check out if you happen to set your foot in their vibrant socio-geographical landscape:
1. Capisaan Cave (Brgy. Capisaan, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya)
Known as the “geologist’s paradise” for being one of the best cave systems in the country, Capisaan Cave is the right spot to be if you wish to oversee unusual calcite, stalactites, stalagmites, and wonderful rock formations. Being the 5th longest cave system in the Philippines with a length of 4.2 kilometers, a full tour in the said tourist spot can last for at least four hours. Lion and Alayan caves serve as the main entry and exit points for the entire cave system that is made up of eight interlinked caves. So if you are an adrenaline junkie, a trip throughout this cave system at Brgy. Capisaan in Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya may be most fitting for you.
2. Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Park (Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya)
If you are looking for a place that offers a more tranquil vibe, you may want to be at the Lower Magat Eco-Tourism Park. Located at Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya, this 1120-hectare spot is positioned in the lower part of the Magat River and has been ornamented with astounding plants, flowers, and natural landscapes. Aside from its serene environment that is just as enticing, this eco-park offers various activities for tourists such as boat riding, swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, and sightseeing of animals that are being well taken care of. With pleasant amenities and available accommodations which are perfect for overnight stays, this place is indeed a must-visit if you will come to the vicinity of the province one day.
3. Golden Haven Memorial Park – Nueva Vizcaya (Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya)
Nueva Vizcaya is a home as well for the Golden Haven Memorial Park, a well-known sanctuary that safeguards the precious memory of the departed. Situated in the municipality of Bambang, this burial site should never be out on the radar of someone who plans to take a trip to the province. The present-day developers have revamped this cemetery and made it walk away from the conventional layout of memorial parks–they decided to incorporate Spanish culture in the designs of its infrastructures. It is for ecclesiastical reasons; as a symbol of honor to the race that passed on to the country its most dominant religion to date, they opted to take inspiration from the ways of life by the Spaniards and infuse it into this top-notch spiritual destination to ever be found in town.
4. Saint Dominic Cathedral (Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya)
If you are fascinated with religious sites, you have to lay your eyes on the Saint Dominic Cathedral. Found at Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya, this premier tourist spot was previously named Saint Augustine Church. It envelopes a Baroque architecture and a striking facade that always leaves the devotees in awe. With an octagonal bell tower made out of red bricks, this church remains active today despite being ravished by extreme calamities such as earthquakes and fires. In the past years, reconstructions were only made on the main building–its frontage and the bell tower were left untouched, resembling the unwavering faith of the believers in the region. Hence, it is the place to go if you opt to reflect and spend time being grateful for the gift of life bestowed to you by the Creator.
5. Balete Pass National Shrine (Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya)
Balete Pass National Shrine is marked as one of the most historic sites in the province. Previously known as the Dalton Pass, Balete Pass abridges the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya and Nueva Ecija. This used to be the battle arena for the Filipino and American soldiers against the retreating enemy forces during the 2nd World War. The endpoint of this pass is the Balete Pass Tourism Complex, where the National Shrine was established as mandated by the local government of the province. Serving as a point of tribute to the fallen soldiers, this sacred establishment is positioned at Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya and offers a top view deck with huts for tourists to relax and take a glimpse of the humongous mountain ranges and forests in front of the spot.
6. People’s Museum and Library (Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya)
Erected at Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya to serve its purpose of being the repository of Novo Vizcayanos’ culture, the People’s Museum and Library must also be at the top of your list of itineraries to visit within the province. Regarded as one of the Important Cultural Properties of the country, this two-story building houses native crafts such as hand-woven clothes, ancient jars, and other relevant artifacts belonging to the indigenous tribes residing on Nueva Vizcaya. The institution encourages every town in the province, with the help of the local government, to share material historical objects with them for safekeeping and display. So, if you are fueled to know the province’s roots, this is the spot to witness where everything began.
7. Imugan Falls (Brgy. Imugan, Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya)
With its pristine and cold waters, Imuran Falls wraps up the list of places that you must consider when traveling to Nueva Vizcaya. Situated at Brgy. Imugan in the municipality of Sta. Fe, this 35-foot waterfall is known for the unique rock formations and exuberant foliage that it has. Picnics can be done along the banks and trail hiking can also be done for the adventurers, which leads them to the top of this magnificent body of water. Bathrooms at the top of the waterfalls are provided by the local government to further accommodate the travelers who wish to make the most out of their stay in Nueva Vizcaya. Thus, all you need is enough energy for you to reach the end of the hike and take a quick dip at this grandiose wonder of nature.
These are only some of the gems that the said province can offer. With the rapid change of times and tides, you may just want to be lost in a sanctuary and escape the harsh realities of the city. But worry no more, because the list above just proves that heaven is indeed a place on Earth. So, what are you waiting for? Start the adventure of a lifetime in Nueva Vizcaya now!
